Enjoy the Adventure
This route is the hardest but most spectacular and direct way to reach Uhuru Peak. It follows a forested ridge to the moorlands, then traverses below the Southern Icefields to reach the Barafu Route which is followed to the summit. An early start is made on the summit day to reach Stella Point, on the Crater Rim at dawn. Uhuru Peak lies a further 40 min. along the rim. The Mweka Route is used for the descent. Accommodation on the mountain is in tents which our team will pitch for you.
This is a steep, tough and in places slightly exposed trek within the limits of a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas. An extra day can be added to our itinerary to explore or relax along the route, (best taken at the Barranco Hut).
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
- Day 1: Umbwe Gate To Umbwe Camp
- Day 2: Umbwe Camp To Barranco Camp
- Day 3: Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp
- Day 4: Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp
- Day 5: Barafu Camp To Uhuru Peak To Mweka Camp
- Day 6: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
After an early breakfast, you’ll be driven to the Umbwe Gate (1,660 meters), the starting point of your trek. The trail starts with a steep ascent through dense rainforest, where you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of native wildlife. Your first camp, Umbwe Camp (2,850 meters), offers a stunning view of the surrounding lowland areas.
- Elevation: 1660m/5450ft to 2850m/9350ft
- Distance: 11km/7mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Today’s trek takes you to Barranco Camp (4,000 meters). You’ll ascend through the moorland zone, enjoying ever-changing landscapes and breathtaking views. The Barranco Campsite sits beneath the Barranco Wall, a challenging yet exhilarating climb you’ll tackle the next day. This camp is known for its picturesque setting and great acclimatization.
- Elevation: 2850m/9350ft to 4000m/13,000ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi
- Walking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Semi-desert
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Your morning begins with a challenging scramble up the Barranco Wall, which offers incredible views of the surrounding landscapes. You’ll then hike across the Karanga Valley, with a steady ascent to Karanga Camp (4,050 meters). This camp is strategically placed for acclimatization, and you’ll have the opportunity to rest and absorb the breathtaking scenery.
- Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
- Distance: 5km/3mi
- Hiking Time: 34 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Your ascent continues as you make your way to Barafu Camp (4,700 meters), the final camp before the summit push. The terrain becomes more barren and rocky as you approach the alpine desert zone. At Barafu, you’ll have an early dinner and rest, preparing for your summit attempt.
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (6 km)
- Ascent: 605 m
- altitude: 4700 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist, or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
- Hiking time: 12 – 14 hours (17 km)
- Ascent: 1295 m
- Descent: 2795 m
- altitude: 5895 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi for shower and then later our driver will pick you and be transferred to Moshi at the hotel of your choice and this will mark the end of our tour.
- Transport: Private transfer (0.5 hour, 17 km)
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (10 km)
- Descent: 1300 m
- altitude: 3100 m
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
Included / Excluded
To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.
- Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- 4 Season mountain tents
- Sleeping Mats
- Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- Filtered water throughout the trek
- Fair wages for the mountain crew
- Portable flush toilet can be provided for free upon client’s request.
- Tanzania Visa
- Personal Expenses
- Hiking Gears
- Tips and gratuities to your mountain crew.
