$2,745 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arrival in Arusha/Moshi Town
Arrival in Arusha/Moshi Town
Arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you are met and transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi (45–60 minutes), with initial views of the mountain setting the tone for the expedition. The day is reserved for rest and preparation, followed by a comprehensive pre-climb briefing covering route strategy, altitude management, and safety protocols. A full gear check ensures all equipment meets mountain standards, with rental options available if needed. The evening concludes with dinner and final preparations, allowing you to hydrate, organize your duffel (15 kg limit), and mentally transition into the climb ahead.
- Main Destination:
- Arusha (City)
- Accommodation:
-
Outpost Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Lemosho Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Lemosho Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Beginning with a scenic transfer to Lemosho Gate (2,100 m), the trek starts through dense montane rainforest, one of Kilimanjaro’s most pristine ecological zones. Over 3–4 hours, the trail ascends gradually beneath a canopy of ancient trees, with frequent sightings of colobus monkeys, birds, and unique plant life. The pace remains deliberately slow to establish acclimatization from the outset. Arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 m), you find camp fully set, with hot meals and essential comforts awaiting. The evening focuses on rest, hydration, and preparation for the transition into higher ecological zones.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, the route ascends steadily into heath and moorland over 5–6 hours, revealing expansive views and the first clear sightlines of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Vegetation shifts dramatically to giant heathers, lobelias, and open grasslands, marking a key ecological transition. The increasing altitude introduces mild physiological changes, making pacing and hydration critical. After a scenic lunch en route, continue across rolling terrain to Shira 1 Camp (3,500 m), positioned on the edge of the Shira Plateau. The afternoon allows for light acclimatization activity and rest amid wide, open landscapes.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
-
Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp
Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp
Traversing the Shira Plateau, today’s 5–6 hour hike prioritizes acclimatization while maintaining a moderate pace across one of Kilimanjaro’s most striking high-altitude landscapes. The route includes a side excursion to Shira Cathedral, a prominent rock formation offering panoramic views and an ideal acclimatization stop. Terrain remains open and undulating, with minimal tree cover and increasing exposure. Arriving at Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m), the focus shifts to recovery, nutrition, and continued altitude adaptation, supported by close monitoring from your guides.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
This is a critical acclimatization day, following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. The route ascends gradually to Lava Tower (4,600 m), a key altitude milestone where trekkers pause to rest and assess adaptation. The terrain transitions into alpine desert, characterized by volcanic rock formations and sparse vegetation. After reaching the high point, descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m), allowing physiological recovery at a lower elevation. The 7–8 hour trek combines physical demand with strategic altitude gain, preparing the body for summit conditions while offering dramatic views of the Western Breach and surrounding valleys.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Starting with the ascent of the Barranco Wall, the day begins with a short but engaging scramble that requires balance rather than technical climbing. Once above the wall, the trail undulates through alpine desert terrain toward Karanga Valley, maintaining a steady altitude profile over 4–5 hours. Though shorter in distance, this stage is essential for conserving energy and reinforcing acclimatization before summit day. At Karanga Camp (4,100 m), the remainder of the day is dedicated to rest, hydration, and final preparation under close supervision from your guide team.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7
Karanga - Barafu Camp - Summit - Mweka Camp
Karanga - Barafu Camp - Summit - Mweka Camp
The most demanding stage begins with a steady ascent to Barafu Camp (4,600 m), where you rest briefly before initiating the midnight summit push. Moving in darkness across steep scree slopes, the climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) requires sustained effort under low-oxygen conditions, guided at a controlled pace. Reaching the summit at sunrise provides expansive views and a significant sense of achievement. After a short stay, descend to Barafu for rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,950 m). This extended 12–16 hour effort tests endurance while delivering the defining moment of the expedition.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 8
Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
Concluding the trek, descend through rainforest over 3–4 hours to Mweka Gate (1,600 m), with the trail offering a final contrast of dense vegetation, birdlife, and lower-altitude oxygen levels. Upon completion, receive your summit certificate before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-earned recovery. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest, reflection, and celebration, marking the successful completion of your Kilimanjaro ascent supported throughout by the Big Time Adventures mountain team.
- Main Destination:
- Moshi (Town)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
