The Northern Circuit route is the best routes on Kilimanjaro, offering nearly 360 degrees of beautiful scenery including the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes.The longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit allows for the best acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate, this route is highly recommended.The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate.The first two days are spent trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge, before crossing the Shira Plateau, then heads north and circles clockwise from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp to School Hut, before summiting from the east.Duration: 9 or 10 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: Low
Arrive Kilimanjaro Airport, meet your English speaking drive and drive to Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa, meet your English speaking guide for briefing. Dinner and overnight at Tulia retreat Hotel and Spa
Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft
Altitude gained: 396mDeparting from Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa at 08:00a, drive 4 hours will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife.At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery.Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude gained: 719mToday you will spend the first-hour trekking through the last section of rainforest path before entering the low alpine moorland zone which follows up onto the Shira Plateau. The trek is relatively short and gradual, ending at Shira Camp 1 (3,504 meters).Distance: ~7.9km / 5 miles
Trekking time: 5-6 hours
Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude gained: 657mLong trek heading east which passes through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ and then enters the high alpine desert zone. The morning is spent trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where you will have lunch. After lunch, you will join the northern circuit heading down to Moir Camp at 4,161 meters (see map above).This is an important day in your trek as you will get to experience high altitude and then sleep low, which is good for the acclimatization process.Distance: ~ 9.8km / 6.1 miles
Trekking time: 5-7 hours
Zone: Low alpine zone / High alpine zoneBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude loss: 122mThis day it involves a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. Trekkers can take a small detour here to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. From here the route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp (4,033 meters).The trek gives great vistas out across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan / Tanzanian border. You will arrive at Buffalo Camp just after midday, where you will have lunch and have time to rest after a long day hiking.Distance: ~9.2km / 5.8miles
Trekking time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High alpine zoneBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude lost: 97mClimb up the Buffalo Ridge and down into Pofu Camp where lunch is usually served. The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,936 meters. The trek is shorter than the day before and by now you should be feeling well acclimatized to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.Distance: ~6.8km / 4.3miles
Trekking time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High alpine zone and low alpine zoneBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude gained: 781mToday it involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Trekkers then continue walking south-west up to School Hut (4,800 meters).After arriving at School Hut you will be served an early dinner and then you should get some shut-eye as you will be awoken before midnight to start your summit attempt. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera before going to bed.Distance: ~4.8km / 3miles
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Zone: High alpine zone and glacial zoneBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude gained: 1178m
Altitude lost: 2068m (descent)You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up to the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness. Your first check-point is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break. The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), which will be around 5-6 hours after departing School Hut.Take a moment to enjoy the approaching dawn and incredible view out and across to Mawenzi Peak, but remember you still have 2 hours trekking to reach Uhuru Peak so dig deep for the energy. The slope flattens as you head west around the crater rim and you should arrive at the summit at or just after sunrise.Your stay here will be brief so get as many pictures as you can of the incredible views and surrounding glaciers. You will then retrace your steps back around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters) where you will turn south and head down the heavily screed slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters).Most trekkers take a short break here before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for your final night on the mountain. In total, you will be trekking for 14-16 hours on day eight so it is important to pace yourself, remain hydrated and keep your blood sugar levels up. Note: some tour operators return via Gilman’s Point to Horombo Hut using the Marangu Route.You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up to the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness. Your first check-point is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break.The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters)Distance: ~5.9km / 3.7 miles ascent and 8.4km / 5.2 mile descent
Trekking time: 6-8 hours ascent and then 4-6 hour descent
Zone: Glacial zone and all preceding zonesBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Altitude lost: 2194mAfter breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates.As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!Distance: ~12.2km / 7.6 miles
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Rainforest zone
Dinner and overnight at Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa.Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Price includes: –
Not includes: –
Tips for guides, cook, and porters is recommended
Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, the Marangu route is a classic trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the oldest, most well established route. Many favor the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope. It is also the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. The minimum days required for this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended when climbing Klimanjaro using the Marangu route.
Drive from your Hotel in Arusha town at 8:00am, drive to Marangu gate and spend around two hours for registration, payments of fees and final parking. Start climbing through dense semi-tropical to the first hut- Mandara hut (9,000ft). Dinner and an overnight at Mandara hut.
Early morning breakfast and later ascend through the alpine meadow and grassland and moorland to Horombo hut (12,000ft). Both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks can be viewed easily on the way. Dinner and an overnight at Horombo Hut.
Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut
This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent the day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut.
Have breakfast and further ascend to Kibo hut (15,000ft). The landscape becomes very stony and eroded. Spectacular mountain vegetation like giant cactus, groundswell, and lobelia appear on the way. Dinner and an overnight at Kibo hut.
Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Wake up at midnight, and after a snack, proceed to the summit through Gilman’s point (18,640ft). It is about 5-6 hours and 1-2 hours from Kibo hut to Gilman’s point and from Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak (19,340ft) respectively. You will reach the Mountain peak on the morning of the 5th day and start descending after picture taking on the top to Horombo hut for dinner and an overnight after a short break at Kibo hut.
After breakfast, descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. The waiting car will take you to Arusha.
The Mt Kilimanjaro Machame route, also known as the “Whiskey” route. Machame’s draw is in its scenic beauty, the trail is considered difficult, steep and challenging, particularly due to its shorter itinerary. Therefore this route is better suited for more adventurous folks or those with some high altitude, hiking or backpacking experience. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a short drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. The path leads hikers through the rain forest to Shira Plateau. Here, many of Kilimanjaro’s routes converge. Then the route turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route
Pick up from your Hotel in Arusha 1200Mt from sea level at 08:00am, drive to the Machame Gate takes about 50 minutes. The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. As we leave the park gate, we walk through the dense rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge until we reach the Machame Camp.
We leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path up to a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
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.
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 your Hotel in Arusha .
The Umbwe route has a well-deserved reputation of being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the fast ascent to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the number of people on this trail is very low, the chances of success are also low. Umbwe is considered to be very difficult, taxing route – one that should only be attempted by strong hikers who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly to altitude. Approaching from the south, the Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct climb. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.
Pick up from your hotel in Arusha town at 8.30am , drive to Machame Gate (about 1 hour driving) where registration formalities will be completed. We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth.
The second day of the trek follows rockier terrain with sparse undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. As we gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro can be seen. The path flattens as we approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest.
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
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.
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 your Hotel in Arusha
The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds. Rongai has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation). Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience. Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for nearly the entire way. Descent is made via the Marangu route.
Pick up from your hotel in Arusha at 08:00am and drive to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.
We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.
This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp.
We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
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. At Gilman’s point (18,600 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.After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back your Hotel.
The Lemosho route is considered the most scenic trail on Kilimanjaro, granting panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. As one of the newer routes, Lemosho is a superb choice for your climb. It is our preferred route due to its ideal balance of low crowds, beautiful scenery and a high summit success rate. Most of our clients climb Kilimanjaro using this route and they consistently report that they loved it. Thus, Lemosho is highly recommended. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the rain forest to Shira Ridge. The Lemosho route crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east in a pleasant, relatively flat hike. Crowds are low until the route joins the Machame route near Lava Tower. Then the route traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.
We depart from your hotel in Arusha town 1200Mt from see level at 8:00am for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.
We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.
We explore the Shira Plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on Earth.
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
We begin the day climbing up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
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.
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 back to Arusha.
Shira routes begins on the western slopes of Kilimanjaro and this is a remote and rarely visited trails as well as experiencing remote route for Kilimanjaro. A spectacular and amazing climb, which takes more days for reaching to the summit. This route is for camping only.
Pick up from your hotel in Arusha at 7.00am, drive to the Londorossi Gate for registration, then drive a short distance on a steep track through farmland and plantations (2,800 m.), and continue climbing through shrub forest to reach the rim of Shira Plateau (3,350 m.). The views across the surrounding plains open out as we climb (5-6 hours walking). Dinner and overnight at Shira 1 campsite (3,550 m.)
After breakfast start easy day for acclimatization and to explore the grassy moorland and the volcanic rock formations of the plateau. We walk to the Shira peak Cathedral (3,750 m.), a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles. There is a tangible sense of wilderness here (especially when the afternoon mists come in!) and the Mt Meru views from Shira 2 campsite (3,840 meters, 4 hours walking).
After breakfast take your lunch packets turns eastward and continues climbing towards the Barranco camp through lava Tower while getting great views of the spectacular Barranco camp (6 hours walk). Dinner and overnight at Baranco Camp.
After overcoming the volcanic rock barrier “the Great Barranco (locally known as breakfast) descends through scree and ridges to Karanga Valley, dinner and overnight at Karanga valley.
After breakfast proceed to Barafu camp site (5 hours walk). Dinner and overnight at Barafu Camp.
At 1.00am have a cup of coffee or Tea start your ascend to summit “UHURU PEAK” 5895m.After celebrate with your guide start the descent down to Barafu camp for breakfast, then proceed to Mweka camp cutting trough lowland grasses and scrub. Walking time for this day is around 8-10 hours up and down. Dinner and overnight at Mweka camp.
After breakfasts proceed back down in to the forest, a beautiful walk again offering good bird watching opportunities, there are some good news points on route to the valley below. Continue down to Mweka Gate. Here you will meet our vehicle and drive back to Arusha.
Suitable for fit hikers only, this is an extreme variation on the Umbwe Route, ascending via the Western Breach. Participants should be fully aware of the level of exertion and danger before booking this trip – exactly what some rare visitors are looking for.
This is a 7 day Kilimanjaro hike starting at Umbwe Gate and ascending via The Western Breach. Due to the relatively extreme nature of this trip there are generally less people than on other routes and if guests have altitude sickness they will not be allowed to ascend the breach. This is the 7 day version with a night in the crater – pre acclimatisation on Mt Meru is strongly recommended, indeed pre acclimatisation on a trip as short as this is considered MANDATORY.Please note: This route is inherently more dangerous than other routes for 2 reasons. Firstly, the amount of time spent at high altitude and accessing the western breach. This route should only be undertaken by fit individuals with experience of altitude and adventurous training.
Kilimanjaro: Afromontane forest, Barranco valley, Lava Tower, glaciers and the Western breach. Unusual ascent of Kibo, walking in the Kibo Caldera and option to visit the ash pit. The Roof of Africa!IN BRIEFHike Distance – 28 miles / 45km
Vertical Gain – 13,436ft / 4095m
Drop – 13,961ft / 4225m
Trekking Time – 33 hours
START – 5,906FT / 1800M
END – 9,351FT / 2850M
DISTANCE – 7 MILES / 11KM
TIME – 5-7 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – AFROMONTANE FORESTAfter breakfast you depart by vehicle from your Hotel in Arusha to Kilimanjaro National Park. Your first stop is at Machame Gate to collect your permits before getting back in your vehicle and driving to Umbwe Gate. After checking in you set off up through the forest zone. The first day hiking is not overly difficult but certainly steepens towards the latter end of the day. In the late afternoon you arrive in the first camp in time for dinner.
START – 9,351FT / 2850M
END – 12,796FT / 3900M
DISTANCE – 4 MILES / 6KM
TIME – 4-6 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – HEATHThe second day ascends from the forest zone into the heath zone and there are some very steep sections here. Taking it easy is essential to allow your body to acclimatise. A picnic lunch is taken on route. Later that afternoon you arrive into Barranco Camp in time to relax for a while before dinner. The views of the Barranco wall and Western breach pertain to events some 60,000 years ago when this whole part of the mountain collapsed.
START – 12,796FT / 3900M
END – 15,093FT / 4600M
DISTANCE – 2 MILES / 3KM
TIME – 4-5 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – HEATHThe ascent today is very steep and into alpine desert. The air is generally very dry here. As you ascend, the guides will be carefully assessing your progress. Note that if your body is not acclimatising well then the routing may well be switched to an ascent via Stella Point instead. Lunch is taken at Lava Tower with the afternoon to rest.
START – 15,093FT / 4600M
END – 16,087FT / 4903M
DISTANCE – 0.6 MILES / 1KM
TIME – 1-2 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – ARCTICThe ascent to Arrow Glacier is relatively short and leaves plenty of time to rest for a large part of the day. Short walks are possible with the guides to enjoy views of the Great Barranco Wall and remnants of the once mighty glaciers that filled the breach before having dinner and an early night.
START – 16,0871FT / 4903M
END – 18,866FT / 5750M
DISTANCE – 2 MILES / 3KM
TIME – 6-8 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – ARCTICThe starting time this morning will be dependent on the previous day’s guides assessment of the weather, temperature, ice and snowfall conditions. All ascents are relatively early to avoid the part of the day when significant thawing occurs. Ascent to the crater floor takes around 4 to 6 hours and a picnic refuel stop is taken near the top of the breach wall. Once on the crater floor there is time to rest and for those that are feeling strong a hike to the ash pit is a superb option.
START – 18,866FT / 5750M
END – 10,171FT / 3100M
DISTANCE – 8 MILES / 13KM
TIME – 7-9 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – ARCTIC, ALPINE DESERT, HEATH, AFROMONTANE FORESTUnlike other routes with a night time ascent, your hike selection affords you a day time ascent to the summit. Leaving an hour before dawn you ascend to the Roof of Africa! From here you descend to Mweka Camp for the evening. Dinner and overnight Mweka Camp. Alt 3,100m,10,171ft (full board).
START – 10,171FT / 3100M
END – 5,381FT / 1640M
DISTANCE – 6 MILES / 10KM
TIME – 3-4 HRS
CLIMATE ZONE – AFROMONTANE FORESTAfter breakfast you descend once again through Afromontane forest and around midday, after saying farewell to your crew, you are picked up and transferred back to your lodge for a well deserved shower! Later that evening you will be visited by AAA EXPRESS ADVENTURE LTD Representative to congratulate you, to find out how the trip went and to answer any final questions you may have about your onward journey.
The 6 Days Machame route is perhaps the most popular climbing route. It is the choice for many people because it provides impressive views and a variety of habitats. Machame hike steeper trails, for longer distances and sleep in tents. The Machame Route is approximately 62 km/ 37 miles from gate to gate. It is designed for physically fit people with some hiking experience.
•Machame Gate to Machame Camp
•Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
•Distance: 11 km
•Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
•Habitat: Rain ForestMeet your professional Mountain guide at your Hotel in Arusha town at 08:00am, then drive to Machame gate, the journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain.We now leave the park gate and walk through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. Lower down, the trail can be muddy and slippery, picnic lunch on the way. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. We continue a short distance until we reach the Machame Camp for dinner and overnight.Main Destination:Mount Kilimanjaro (Mountain)Accommodation:Budget camping
Meals & Drinks:
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
•Elevation (ft): 9,400ft to 12,500ft
•Distance: 5 km
•Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
•Habitat: MoorlandAfter breakfast, we leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the little valley walking along a steep rocky ridge, covered with heather, until the ridge ends, picnic lunch on the way. The route now turns west onto a river gorge. Time for rest, dinner and overnight at the Shira campsite.Main Destination:Mount Kilimanjaro (Mountain)Accommodation:Budget camping
Meals & Drinks:
•Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
•Elevation (ft): 12,500ft to 13,000ft
•Distance: 10 km
•Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
•Habitat: Semi DesertFrom the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. picnic lunch on the way. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.Main Destination:Mount Kilimanjaro (Mountain)Accommodation:Budget camping
Meals & Drinks:
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
•Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 15,000ft
•Distance: 9km
•Hiking Time: 8-10 hours
•Habitat: Alpine DesertAfter breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. Then, we leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. Picnic lunch on the way.At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.Main Destination:Mount Kilimanjaro (Mountain)Accommodation:Budget camping
Meals & Drinks:
Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut
•Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to
10,000ft)
•Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
•Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent•Habitat: ArcticVery early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim.At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all they way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise.Then continuing down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Dinner and overnight at Mweka camp.Main Destination:Mount Kilimanjaro (Mountain)Accommodation:Budget camping
Meals & Drinks:
•Mweka Camp to Moshi
•Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft
•Distance: 10 km
•Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
•Habitat: Rain ForestAfter breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).From the gate, you continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to hotel in Arusha.Main Destination:Mount Kilimanjaro (Mountain)Accommodation:No accommodation (End of tour)Meals & Drinks:
Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, the Marangu route is a classic trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the oldest, most well established route. Many favor the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope. It is also the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. The minimum days required for this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended when climbing Klimanjaro using the Marangu route.
Drive from your Hotel in Arusha town at 8:00am, drive to Marangu gate and spend around two hours for registration, payments of fees and final parking. Start climbing through dense semi-tropical to the first hut- Mandara hut (9,000ft). Dinner and an overnight at Mandara hut.
Early morning breakfast and later ascend through the alpine meadow and grassland and moorland to Horombo hut (12,000ft). Both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks can be viewed easily on the way. Dinner and an overnight at Horombo Hut.
Have breakfast and further ascend to Kibo hut (15,000ft). The landscape becomes very stony and eroded. Spectacular mountain vegetation like giant cactus, groundswell, and lobelia appear on the way. Dinner and an overnight at Kibo hut.
Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Wake up at midnight, and after a snack, proceed to the summit through Gilman’s point (18,640ft). It is about 5-6 hours and 1-2 hours from Kibo hut to Gilman’s point and from Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak (19,340ft) respectively. You will reach the Mountain peak on the morning of the 5th day and start descending after picture taking on the top to Horombo hut for dinner and an overnight after a short break at Kibo hut.
After breakfast, descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. The waiting car will take you to Arusha.
FOOD MENU FOR MT. KILIMANJARO CLIMBING
We understand the importance of healthy, nutritious and tasty meals while on the trek. Here is a sample of the food you can expect while on the trail.
BREAKFAST
Tea, Drinking chocolate, Milo, Coffee, Biscuits, Milk
Breakfast
Porridge – Oat porridge, Finger millet porridge, Maize porridge, Semolina (sooji) porridge Fruits – Assorted fruit plate, Fruit platter, Selection of Fruits
Toasted Bread, French toast
Eggs – Onion omelet, Plain omelet, Spanish omelet, Scottish eggs (over easy)
Grilled bacon, Grilled sausages
Cheddar cheese
Tanzania tea, drinking chocolate, Coffee, Decaffeinate, Milk (Nido) Pan cakes
Sautéd potatoes
Stir fried mushroom
LUNCH BOX
Juice box
Biscuits
Cut fruits Chocolate Portions of cheese Queen cakes Bread sandwich Sweetness(pipi), chicken,
FOOD MENU
Grilled chicken
Beef pies and Veg pies Accompaniment:
Biscuits, Pringles, Potatoes crisp Hard boiled eggs and tomato ketchup Sweet breads
Pancakes
Dessert Chocolate
Fruit slices, Fruit platter, Fruit Salad
Veg fuss ills
Tea, Coffee, Drinking chocolate, Milo, Milk (Nido)
Starters
Soups
Cream of cucumber and potatoes Cream of celery soup
Leeks soup
Cream of garlic soup
Vegetable soup
Cream of cucumber and potatoes
MAIN COURSE
Grilled beef served with Gravy garnished with grilled tomatoes Beef stroganoff
Fried chicken
Spiced meatballs with a creamy pomodoro sauce
Mincemeat with bolognese sauce
Chicken chasseur
Grilled Beef fillet served with a mint sauce
Chicken fricassee, with a coulis and tomato sauce
Vegetable rice
Macaroni with cheese
Spaghetti pomodoro
Turmeric rice
Accompaniment Lyonnaise potatoes
French fries
Fried potatoes Dessert
Banana fritters
Queen cake glassed with chocolate source
Grape suzettes and pancake
Creamed Caramel
Custard pudding
Bread and buttered pudding
Cake
Fruit salad
Fresh fruits
Tea, Coffee, Drinking chocolate, Milo, Milk (Nido)
VEGETARIAN MENU ON KILIMANJARO
We have many trekkers who are vegetarian and our cooks are well trained to handle these requirements. You are free to meet our cook during the briefing session to discuss and create a menu which meets your criteria.
Here are some sample dishes:
Soups
Vegetable soup and bread
Pumpkin soup Cucumber soup Leek soup Vegetable Salad Sweet potatoes soup Carrot soup
Salads
Mushrooms with Vegetables
Fried potatoes with vegetable sauce Main Course:
Grilled Sandwich Pasta
Rice
Porridge
Boiled Potatoes Mashed potatoes Beans
Vegetable Samosa Chapati
Chinese rice
Spaghetti Accompaniment:
Chips Fruits Black Tea Fruits
Cream of cauliflower & carrot Vegetable soup and bread Pumpkin soup
Cucumber soup
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