After breakfast, the trail continues out of the rainforest and into the heath and moorland zone. The climb is steady, with increasing exposure and stunning views of the Shira Ridge.

You’ll reach Shira 1 Camp after about 5–6 hours of trekking, where you’ll camp on the edge of the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful areas. Dinner and overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Today’s hike is relatively short, allowing time for acclimatization. You’ll cross the expansive Shira Plateau, enjoying panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding wilderness. Depending on conditions, you may visit Shira Cathedral, a volcanic rock formation offering a dramatic viewpoint.

Arrive at Shira 2 Camp after about 3–4 hours. Spend the afternoon relaxing, exploring, or taking photos as the sun sets behind Mount Meru.

This day is key for acclimatization as you climb high and sleep low. After breakfast, ascend toward the Lava Tower (4,630m), a striking volcanic formation where you’ll stop for lunch. The climb is steady and crosses into the alpine desert zone, where vegetation becomes sparse.

After a rest at Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m), nestled below the dramatic Barranco Wall. The descent helps your body adjust to altitude, and you’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner under the stars.

Today begins with a fun and challenging scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that rewards you with breathtaking views of the Heim Glacier. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley and climbs back up to Karanga Camp.

This short, acclimatization-focused day helps prepare you for the higher elevations ahead. Arrive in the early afternoon, rest, and enjoy the view as the sun illuminates the snow-capped peak.

After breakfast, continue your ascent through the rocky alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. The landscape is stark and windswept, with little vegetation.

You’ll arrive at Barafu Camp after about 4–5 hours of hiking. Have an early dinner and rest, as your summit attempt begins around midnight. Prepare your gear and warm clothing for the cold, high-altitude climb ahead.

Your summit day begins in the dark around midnight. Ascend slowly but steadily toward Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim. From there, it’s another hour to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Arrive at sunrise to witness one of the most breathtaking sights on Earth — glaciers glowing in the early light and vast plains stretching below.

After celebrating your accomplishment, begin your descent to Barafu Camp for rest and then continue down to Mweka Camp for dinner and overnight.

After breakfast, make your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificate. Your driver will meet you here for the transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha — a well-deserved end to an unforgettable journey.