Climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenging but non-technical trek that typically takes 5 to 9 days to complete, depending on the route chosen. There are several main routes, each offering a unique experience and varying levels of difficulty and acclimatization profiles
Trekking to the roof of Africa
9 Days: Rongai Route
7 Days: Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)
9 Days: Machame Route (Whiskey Route)
9 Days: Lemosho Route
8 Days: Umbwe Route
11 Days:Northern Circuit Route
9 Days: Rongai Route
This itinerary follows the majestic Rongai Route, the only path approaching Kilimanjaro from the north. It offers a remote wilderness experience with high success rates due to its excellent acclimatization profile.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your driver will transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the afternoon, you will meet your lead guides for a pre-climb briefing and a detailed equipment check to ensure you are fully prepared for the mountain.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 2: Moshi to Simba Camp
Elevation: 1,950m to 2,650m
Distance: 6.5km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest / Cultivation After breakfast, we drive to the Marangu Gate for registration before continuing to the Nalemoru Gate. The trek begins through vibrant fields of maize and potatoes before entering the emerald rainforest. Keep an eye out for Black and White Colobus monkeys in the canopy as you wind your way to Simba Camp, located near the First Cave.
Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave
Elevation: 2,650m to 3,150m
Distance: 4km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland The morning ascent is a steady climb through the moorland, where the vegetation transitions into heather and giant groundsels. As the air thins, the jagged Mawenzi Peak comes into view. We reach Second Cave in time for a hot lunch. The afternoon is reserved for rest or short acclimatization walks to prepare your body for the higher altitudes ahead.
Day 4: Second Cave to Kikelewa Caves
Elevation: 3,150m to 3,600m
Distance: 5km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland Today’s trek heads southeast across the moorland. The path is relatively flat but provides stunning, unobstructed views of the Kibo volcanic cone. We arrive at the Kikelewa Caves, tucked into a valley, where the mist often swirls around the campsite, creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.
Day 5: Kikelewa Caves to Mawenzi Tarn
Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
Distance: 6km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert A short but steep climb takes us out of the moorland and into the high-altitude Alpine Desert. The destination is Mawenzi Tarn, a campsite set in a spectacular cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. This is a critical afternoon for acclimatization; you can explore the surrounding ridges or relax as the sun sets over the “Saddle.”
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
Distance: 9km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert We traverse the “Saddle,” a vast, lunar-like plateau that connects the two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. The landscape is stark and windswept, offering a powerful sense of isolation. We arrive at Kibo Hut by mid-afternoon. Here, you will have an early dinner and go to sleep immediately, as the summit push begins at midnight.
Day 7: Summit Day! Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Habitat: Arctic / Glaciers At midnight, we begin the final ascent under the stars. The trail zigzags up heavy scree toward Gillman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. After a brief rest, you will continue around the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Standing among the glaciers at sunrise is a life-changing experience. After celebrating, we descend back to Kibo Hut for lunch and continue down to Horombo Hut for a long-awaited sleep.
Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,700m to 1,800m
Distance: 20km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest The final descent takes you back through the heather and into the lush rainforest. At the Marangu Gate, you will sign out and receive your official gold summit certificate. After a farewell song from your mountain crew, we drive you back to your hotel in Moshi for a celebratory dinner and a hot shower.
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, your driver will provide a private transfer back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home, or assist you in starting your post-climb safari adventure.
7 Days: Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)
This itinerary follows the popular and well-established Marangu Route, known as the “Coca-Cola Route” due to its relative accessibility and the presence of dormitory-style huts rather than camping tents.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a driver will transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the afternoon, your guides will conduct a detailed pre-climb orientation and a thorough inspection of your trekking gear to ensure you are fully prepared for the journey ahead.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 2: Moshi to Mandara Hut
Elevation: 1,860m to 2,703m
Distance: 7km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest After meeting your mountain crew, you will drive to the Marangu Gate to register and begin the trek. The trail winds through dense, evergreen rainforest on a narrow path. A picnic lunch is served halfway at Kisambioni. Upon reaching Mandara Hut, you can rest or take a short acclimatization walk to the Maundi Crater, offering views of the Taveta region and the striking Mawenzi Peak.
Stay: Mandara Huts
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2,703m to 3,680m
Distance: 11km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland The environment shifts dramatically as the route leaves the rainforest and enters the open moorland. This rock-strewn desert plain features unique succulent plants. Lunch is a picnic at Kambi ya Taabu. The trek provides excellent opportunities to see the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks on clear days. We arrive at the busy but comfortable Horombo Huts in the afternoon.
Stay: Horombo Huts
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3,680m to 4,710m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert The trail today crosses the vast, baron “Saddle,” an expansive alpine desert area connecting the two main peaks. The vegetation diminishes significantly after crossing the Maua River. Lunch is served at Middle Red Hill before the final steady incline to Kibo Hut. The afternoon is for resting, preparing gear, and getting an early bedtime for the midnight summit attempt.
Stay: Kibo Hut
Day 5: Summit Day! Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4,710m to 5,895m (down to 3,680m)
Distance: 18km total | Hiking Time: 11–13 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Glaciers Shortly after midnight, the challenging ascent begins. The path leads to the first major rest stop at William’s Point, continuing to Gillman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. The final push along the rim to Uhuru Peak is physically demanding due to the high altitude. After celebrating on “The Roof of Africa,” we begin the long descent back to Kibo Hut for snacks, continuing down to Horombo Hut for the night.
Stay: Horombo Huts
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,680m to 1,860m
Distance: 19km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest The final day is a magical descent through the tranquil cloud forest. The trail can be slippery, so watch your step. Our vehicles will meet you at the Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. A short drive takes you back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved shower and celebration.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, a driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight. If you wish to extend your adventure with a Tanzanian safari, arrangements can be made by your tour operator.
9 Days: Machame Route (Whiskey Route)
This itinerary follows the renowned Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” known for its stunning views, diverse habitats, and excellent “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization profile, which significantly increases summit success rates.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly greeted by a driver and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, an experienced team will conduct a detailed orientation session and inspect your climbing gear to ensure you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 2: Moshi to Machame Camp
Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m
Distance: 9km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest After breakfast, a 45-minute drive takes you through coffee plantations to the Machame Gate for park registration. The trek begins with a scenic hike through lush tropical rainforest and savannah terrain. The path is often moss-covered and leads you through fields of heather and sprouting wildflowers, occasionally offering glimpses of the majestic Kibo Peak. The day ends at Machame Camp.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m
Distance: 7km | Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland Today is highly scenic. The trail ascends across damp heathland and temperate moorland dunes, moving through fields of tall grasses and unique Erica plains. The landscape becomes increasingly rocky, dominated by volcanic formations draped with lichen. The route leads onto the vast Shira Plateau to Shira Camp, where the higher altitude aids the acclimatization process.
Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,840m to 3,950m (via 4,600m)
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert This crucial “climb high, sleep low” day involves significant altitude gain before descending for the night. We hike eastward toward the junction of the Shira and Lemosho routes, then ascend towards the iconic Lava Tower, a 300ft volcanic plug. After a break at 4,600m, we make a rapid descent into the spectacular Great Barranco Valley to set up camp, surrounded by massive valley walls and giant lobelias.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley Camp
Elevation: 3,950m to 4,040m
Distance: 6km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert The day begins with an exhilarating climb up the challenging but rewarding Barranco Wall (often called the “Breakfast Wall”). Once at the top, the path continues along a calmer trail with dramatic views of the Kibo ice fields, leading you into the Karanga Valley. This short day allows ample time to rest and acclimatize before the final ascent stages.
Day 6: Karanga Valley Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,040m to 4,600m
Distance: 4km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert A steady, gradual ascent through the barren landscape of the Karanga Valley leads to the granite floors of a lava ridge. The vegetation thins out completely as temperatures drop. We reach Barafu Camp, situated on an exposed ridge. An energy-dense meal and an early bedtime are essential in preparation for the midnight push to the summit.
Day 7: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,600m to 5,895m (down to 3,100m)
Distance: 19km total | Hiking Time: 14–16 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Glaciers Departing shortly after midnight, we trek amid glaciers to Stella Point on the crater rim. A spectacular sunrise greets you before the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After soaking in the triumph and views, you descend rapidly back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing all the way down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,500m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest Wake up a conqueror! The final stroll is a relaxed descent through the deep green cloud forest to the Mweka Gate. Here, you will bid farewell to your incredible support team and board a vehicle back to your hotel in Moshi for a celebratory hot shower and well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Departure
After a final breakfast, a driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight, or onwards to your next Tanzanian adventure, such as a safari.
9 Days: Lemosho Route
This itinerary follows the excellent Lemosho Route, renowned for its scenic beauty, remote start, and high success rates due to its effective acclimatization schedule. It approaches the mountain from the west and joins the popular Machame trail later on.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a driver will transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Shortly after arriving, your guides will conduct an orientation session, provide important details about the trek, and perform a comprehensive check of your trekking gear.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 2: Lemosho Start Point to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,300m to 2,750m
Distance: 7km | Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: Rainforest After breakfast, embark on a scenic three-hour drive to the Londorossi Gate for registration. You will then drive to the official starting point of the trek. The trail winds through dense, untamed rainforest. Keep watch for Black and White Colobus Monkeys and Bush Babies in the canopy. The hike is short and relatively gentle, ending at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
Elevation: 2,750m to 3,550m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Moorland The scenery shifts today as you transition from rainforest to the heather and moorland zone. The arid landscape features striking silver flora and enormous lobelias. You will cross the Shira Ridge (3,600m), offering stunning views of Mount Meru to the west and Kibo Peak straight ahead. A delicious meal awaits at Shira Camp 1.
Day 4: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Elevation: 3,550m to 3,840m
Distance: 8km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland A relatively flat and short hiking day across the Shira Plateau. The path is rocky and dusty, showcasing hardy high-altitude shrubs and astonishing giant lobelias. The views of the towering mountain peaks are best observed from this area. After a hot lunch at Shira Camp 2, the rest of the day is for resting and acclimatization walks, watching the stars emerge in the evening.
Day 5: Shira Camp 2 to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
Elevation: 3,840m to 3,950m (via 4,600m)
Distance: 11km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert This is a critical “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization day. The Lemosho route joins the Machame route as you ascend toward the jagged Shark’s Tooth ridge and the imposing Lava Tower (4,600m). After a break at the highest point of the day, you descend rapidly into the beautiful Great Barranco Valley. This descent aids acclimatization perfectly.
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 3,950m to 4,700m
Distance: 9km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert The morning starts with a moderate scramble up the Barranco Wall (the “Breakfast Wall”). This section is steep but short, requiring some light use of hands and feet. Once on top, you traverse the fluctuating terrain of the South Circuit, crossing small streams and the Karanga River. Lunch is served at Karanga Campsite (3,930m) before the final steep climb up a granite ridge to Barafu Camp. You will have an early dinner and rest for the midnight summit attempt.
Day 7: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Habitat: Arctic / Glaciers You are awoken shortly after midnight for the strenuous push to the summit. The trail leads up a steep scree slope to Stella Point (5,672m) on the crater rim, passing glaciers under the starry sky. As dawn breaks, you hike the final hour around the rim to Uhuru Peak, the “Roof of Africa.” After photos and celebrations, you descend to Barafu Camp for a break, then continue down to Mweka Camp in the forest zone for a well-deserved rest.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,800m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest A leisurely final stroll through the magnificent rainforest takes you to the Mweka Gate. Here, you will receive your Gold Summit Certificate and bid farewell to your dedicated mountain crew. A driver will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower and a final celebratory evening.
Day 9: Departure
After a final breakfast, our driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home, or assist you in beginning a new adventure, such as a safari.
8 Days: Umbwe Route
This itinerary follows the demanding Umbwe Route, the most direct and challenging path to the summit. It is a steep and physically intensive route best suited for experienced trekkers, known for its rugged beauty and steep gradients.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Shortly after arrival, you will attend a detailed orientation session where guides will examine your gear and provide final advice. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the vibrant town of Moshi.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 2: Moshi to Umbwe Cave Camp
Elevation: 1,600m to 2,850m
Distance: 10.5km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest After meeting your crew and enjoying breakfast, you will drive 45 minutes to the Umbwe Gate for registration. The real work begins after lunch: a steep ascent through dense, wet mountain rainforest. The track is often muddy, requiring the use of strong tree roots for leverage. You’ll catch unexpected glimpses of Kibo Peak through the canopy before reaching the secluded Umbwe Cave Camp for the night.
Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 2,850m to 3,950m
Distance: 6.5km | Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland The climb today takes you out of the rainforest into the drier moorland air. You ascend the spectacular and steep Umbwe Route ridge, which features dramatic drop-offs. The route eventually flattens out near the Barranco Valley. You will camp beneath the impressive Great Barranco Wall, which you will tackle tomorrow morning.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,950m to 4,040m (net gain; significant up/down)
Distance: 6km | Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert The day begins with scaling the 257-meter Great Barranco Wall—a thrilling scramble that requires using your hands and feet (not technical climbing). At the top, you are rewarded with views of the Helm Glacier above. The trail then weaves up and down through the austere alpine desert, descending into the Karanga Valley for the overnight stay.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,040m to 4,600m
Distance: 3.5km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert A shorter but challenging day with a consistent climb. The landscape becomes increasingly arid and surreal as you approach the final high camp. Barafu Camp is situated on an exposed, rocky ridge with panoramic views of the ice fields and the summit above the clouds. An early, energy-dense dinner is crucial, followed by rest before the midnight summit push.
Day 6: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,600m to 5,895m (down to 3,100m)
Distance: 19km total | Hiking Time: 14–16 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Glaciers You start the ascent at midnight. The climb is physically grueling, up a steep scree slope in freezing temperatures. Reaching Stella Point on the crater rim coincides with a breathtaking sunrise over the clouds. An hour more along the rim takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebration, you begin a long descent back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, then continue down to Mweka Camp in the upper forest for a well-deserved recovery and sleep.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,500m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest The final hike is a gentler descent through the misty cloud forest. The trail can be slippery, so caution is advised. At the Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificates. A waiting vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower and celebration of your achievement.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, a driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home, or assist you in starting an optional safari adventure.
11 Days:Northern Circuit Route
This extensive itinerary follows the Northern Circuit Route, the newest and longest path on the mountain. It offers a remote, uncrowded wilderness experience with an exceptional acclimatization profile, leading to the highest summit success rates.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a driver will provide a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, you will attend a detailed orientation session with the expert team, including a thorough inspection and adjustment of your hiking gear.
Stay: Moshi Hotel
Day 2: Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,350m to 2,750m
Distance: 7km | Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: Rainforest After a hearty breakfast, a three-hour drive takes you west to the Londorossi Gate for park registration. After meeting the crew, you drive further up to the trek’s starting point. The trail immediately enters dense rainforest where you might spot Black and White Colobus Monkeys, elephants, or buffalo. The short hike ends at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
Elevation: 2,750m to 3,550m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Moorland The longest day so far transitions from rainforest into the low alpine moorland zone. You cross the vast Shira Plateau, the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater. The hike crosses the Shira Ridge to Shira Camp 1, offering stunning views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak as you gain altitude.
Day 4: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Elevation: 3,550m to 3,840m
Distance: 8km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland A scenic and relatively flat trek across the plateau to Shira Camp 2. This area is less frequented by trekkers, allowing a unique experience of untouched beauty. In the afternoon, you can explore the nearby landmark Shira Cathedral or take short acclimatization walks as advised by your guides.
Day 5: Shira Camp 2 to Moir Hut Camp
Elevation: 3,840m to 4,200m
Distance: 14km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert The route heads east into the high alpine desert. The Lemosho and Machame routes converge here briefly before you head onto a more secluded northern trail. You pass the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation on the way toward Lava Tower, gradually gaining altitude and consolidating your acclimatization process before descending to Moir Hut Camp behind the Lent Hills.
Day 6: Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp
Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m
Distance: 12km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Climb out of the Moir Valley and take a short detour to the summit of Lent Hills for views. The journey continues along the rolling terrain around the remote northern slopes of Kibo. The trail involves inclines and declines before reaching Buffalo Camp, situated with expansive views of the Kenyan plains below.
Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m
Distance: 8km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Today involves a climb up to the top of “Buffalo Ridge” followed by a continuous track eastwards through high and low alpine desert scenery. The route gently circumvents the northern slopes, bringing you to the Third Cave Camp. By this stage, you will be well acclimatized to the altitude.
Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
Elevation: 3,870m to 4,800m
Distance: 6km | Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Arctic The final leg before the summit push takes you up and over “The Saddle,” a vast, barren lunar landscape between the Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. You head southwest to School Hut, the highest camp on this route. Guides will meticulously check all gear in preparation for the early morning summit attempt.
Day 9: Summit Day! School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,800m to 5,895m (down to 3,060m)
Distance: 19km total | Hiking Time: 11–15 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Glaciers Waking shortly after midnight, you trek through darkness and extreme cold towards Gilman’s Point on the main crater rim. You pass spectacular ice cliffs and glaciers, timing your arrival at Uhuru Peak with the breathtaking sunrise over Africa. After celebration and photos, you begin the long descent via the Mweka Route all the way to Mweka Camp in the forest zone.
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,060m to 1,640m
Distance: 10km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest The last hike is a short stroll through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate. There, you will be awarded your official Gold Summit Certificate. A driver will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved hot shower and celebration.
Day 11: Departure
After a final breakfast, our driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home, or assist you in continuing your African adventure with an optional safari.
