Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft

Distance: 8 km/ 5miles

Hiking Time 5-6 hours

Habitat: Health

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. 

Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft

Altitude gained: 391m

Our trek crosses the Shira one of the highest plateaus on Earth, from Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp. Nine-day climbs will stay the night at Shira II Camp joining climbers ascending from the Machame Route. At Shira II Camp it is worth the extra energy to go a bit higher up the plateau to enjoy the stunning view across the valley below and view the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above. The plateau is exposed so be prepared for a cold night with temperatures getting below zero. Note: 8 Day Climbs continue East to Shira Plateau Ridge to Lava Tower (4,600 meters) and descend to Moir Camp (4,200 meters) 

Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft

Altitude gained: 91m

Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the Kibo peak before we then continue, South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we come to a second junction, which leads to the Arrow Glacier. We then continue to descend to overnight at Barranco Camp.. 

Elevation: 4155m/13,632ft to 4033m/13,232ft

Altitude loss: 122m

We begin with a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. If you wish, take a small detour here to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. The route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp. Spectacular views of plains north of Kilimanjaro that stretches as far as the eye can see to the Kenyan / Tanzanian border. You will arrive at Buffalo Camp just after midday, where you will have lunch and have time to rest. 

Elevation: 4033m/13,232ft to 3936m/12,193ft

Altitude lost: 97m

Day six starts with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge and down into Pofu Camp where lunch is served. We continue East around the Northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave. Today’s climb is shorter than the day before and you should be feeling better acclimatized to the altitude at this point. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon 

Elevation: 3936m/12,913ft to 4717m/15,476ft

Altitude gained: 781m

A steady ascent and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Continue Southwest to School Hut where you will be served an early dinner and the rest as you will begin just 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. 

 Start: School Hut (4715 m) Finish: Uhuru Peak (5895 m), then Mweka Camp (3080 m) Altitude: ↑ 1180 m ↓ 2815 m Walking Time: 7-9h Your guide will wake you up around midnight and after some hot tea and snacks you will start the slow ascent towards the crater rim of Kibo. After a brief stop at Hans Meyer Cave (5520 m), you will make your way to Gilman’s Point (5681 m) on the crater rim. The sun dhould be just beginning to rise as you continue via Stella Point (5730 m) to the highest summit of Kilimanjaro – Uhuru Peak at 5895 meters. You can now witness the awe-inspiring views from the highest point on the African continent – a truly unforgettable experience. After taking some pictures you will head back to Stella Point and then on to Barafu Camp. The descent will be fast and dusty. At Barafu Camp you can take a well-earned rest and have a warm meal to replace the lost energy before continuing your descent. You will spend the night at Mweka Camp (3080 m) which should be reached after about 3 to 4 hours . 

 Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

Distance: 10 km/6 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

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.