• Elevation: 9,498 ft(2895M) to 11,500 ft (3505M)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
• Habitat: Heath and Moorland

The trail transitions from rainforest to open heathland, offering stunning views of the Shira Plateau. As you ascend through rolling hills and cross several streams, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Kibo Peak before arriving at Shira 1 Camp.

• Elevation: 11,500 ft (3505M) to 13,800 ft (4206M)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Distance: 11 km | 7 miles
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today, you’ll explore the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on earth. The gentle walk eastward leads to Shira 2 Camp, followed by a diversion to Moir Hut at the base of Lent Hills. This remote campsite offers excellent acclimatization opportunities and breathtaking views.

• • Moir Hut to Lava Tower:
    • Elevation: 13,800 ft(4206M) to 15,190 (4618M) ft
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Lava Tower to Barranco Camp:
    • Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
    • Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
  • Distance: 7 km | 4 miles (Lava Tower) + 3 km | 2 miles (Barranco)
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day begins with a climb to the iconic Lava Tower, a 300 ft volcanic rock formation. After lunch, descend through the surreal Senecio Forest to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is ideal for acclimatization.

• Elevation: 13,044 ft (3976M) to 13,106(3995M)  ft
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day starts with a thrilling ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep climb. After conquering the wall, you’ll traverse hills and valleys before descending into Karanga Valley. A final steep climb brings you to Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize further.

• • Elevation: 13,106 ft(3995M) to 15,331(4673M) ft
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 4 km | 2 miles
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek takes you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Along the way, you’ll complete the Southern Circuit, enjoying panoramic views of the summit from multiple angles. Rest early and prepare for the challenging summit night ahead.

• • Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak:
    • Elevation: 15,331 ft(4673M)  to 19,341 ft (5895M)
    • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
    • Distance: 5 km | 3 miles

Summit day begins around midnight with a steep ascent under the stars. After hours of challenging hiking, you’ll reach Stella Point in time for a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From there, it’s a short push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

• • • Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
    • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
    • Distance: 10 km | 6 miles
    • Habitat: Rainforest
    •  

On your final day, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower, celebration, and reflection on your incredible journey.