Tour Price
Prices are based on two adults sharing. Solo travelers and private groups, please contact us for a personalized quote.
Trip Info
Overview
Destinations:
Itinerary Highligts
Day 1: Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp - Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp - Moir Hut
Day 5: Moir Hut - Pofu Camp
Day 6: Pofu Camp - Third Cave Camp
Day 7: Third Cave Camp - School Hut
Day 8: School Hut - Summit - Millennium Camp
Day 9: Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp
4WD transfer to Londorossi Park Gate for registration. Our porters prepare and pack our supplies and luggage before we start our ascent along the forest trail to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite at 2895m. We will stay here overnight.
- Transport: 1.7 hours, 80 km
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (5 km)
- Ascent: 535 m
- altitude: 2895 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp - Shira 1 Camp
Our journey continues eastwards across the Shira Plateau with spectacular views of Shira Cathedral. We cross moorland meadow to reach Shira 1 Camp for dinner and overnight camping at 3500m. By now we will be able to see the stunning glaciers of the Western Breach. It will be colder tonight than the previous night with temperatures possibly falling below freezing.
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (8 km)
- Ascent: 605 m
- altitude: 3500 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp
Today we walk to the summit of Shira Cathedral, a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles. There is a tangible sense of wilderness here, especially when the afternoon mists roll in. From our camp near Shira Hut, we take in the unforgettable views of Mt Meru.
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (7 km)
- Ascent: 310 m
- altitude: 3810 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp - Moir Hut
We leave the moorland behind now and a gentle grade walk takes us across the high altitude Shira Caldera to Shira Cave with fabulous views of Arrow glacier. We will camp here for the night at 4200m.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (14 km)
- Ascent: 390 m
- altitude: 4200 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Moir Hut - Pofu Camp
We climb out of the Moir Valley and take a short detour to reach the summit of Lent Hills (4700m). After admiring the views we return to the trail and heads eastwards around the Northern Circuit trail. The final section of today’s walk undulates until reaching the location of Pofu Camp.
- Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours (12 km)
- Ascent: 500 m
- Descent: 680 m
- altitude: 4700 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6: Pofu Camp - Third Cave Camp
From Pofu Camp we cross numerous small valleys as the trail continues through a landscape that has increasingly sparse vegetation to eventually reach Third Cave Camp.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (8 km)
- Descent: 60 m
- altitude: 4020 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7: Third Cave Camp - School Hut
Today there is a steady ascent to reach the Saddle, a lunar landscape between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. From here we continue upwards and reach School Hut in the early afternoon. The remainder of the afternoon is spent resting and preparing for the summit day.
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (5 km)
- Ascent: 830 m
- altitude: 4790 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 8: School Hut - Summit - Millennium Camp
We start the final and most demanding part of the climb around 1 am on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point. We rest here for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. We then head on to Uhuru Peak, passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. We retrace our steps along the crater rim to Stella Point and then descend down through Barafu Camp, where our porters will meet us with a packed lunch. We will then continue to descend to reach Millennium Camp.
- Hiking time: 14 – 16 hours (16 km)
- Ascent: 1105 m
- Descent: 2068 m
- altitude: 5895 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 9: Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate
Your final day on the trek. Departing after breakfast, we descend a further 1300m to the Mweka Park Gate to pick up your summit certificates from the Park Headquarters. We will then transfer toy our hotel for a well-earned shower and celebration.
- Transport: Private transfer (0.6 hour, 17 km)
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (12 km)
- Descent: 2027 m
- altitude: 3827 m
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Departure
You will be picked up from the hotel and be transferred to the airport to catch up your flight back home.
- Meals: Breakfast
Note:Â Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee.
Good To Know
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure open to anyone with determination and a reasonable level of fitness, regardless of prior mountaineering experience. From seasoned trekkers seeking their next challenge to first-time climbers eager to push their limits, this journey welcomes adventurers from all walks of life. With various routes tailored to different skill levels and timeframes, Kilimanjaro offers something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner. The key to success lies in proper preparation, including physical training, mental resilience, and acclimatization to altitude. Families, solo travelers, and even groups celebrating milestones often embark on this life-changing journey, supported by expert guides who ensure safety and an unforgettable experience.
Includes
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Mountain crew (cook, summit porter& porters)
- Overnight stays in tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, chairs )
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water, tea & coffee
- Oxygen tank and oximeters
- All national park fees
- Transfer from the hotel to the National Park gate and back
Excludes
- International or Local Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Gallery
Most Frequently Asked Questions
There are seven main routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit, and Umbwe. Each route varies in difficulty, scenery, and duration. The Marangu Route is known as the "Coca-Cola" route and is the only one offering hut accommodations, while the Machame Route, also called the "Whiskey" route, is popular for its diverse and scenic paths. The Lemosho and Shira routes offer beautiful vistas and lower traffic, making them ideal for those seeking a more solitary experience. Rongai is the only route starting from the north, and the Northern Circuit is the longest route, offering the most acclimatization time. Umbwe is the steepest and most challenging route, recommended for experienced climbers.
The duration of the climb depends on the route chosen. Typically, it takes between 5 to 10 days to reach the summit and descend. For instance, the Marangu Route can be completed in 5-6 days, while the Lemosho Route generally takes 7-8 days. The Northern Circuit, being the longest, can take 9-10 days. Additional acclimatization days can improve summit success rates and overall experience.
The best times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons: from January to early March and from June to October. These periods offer the best weather conditions, with less rain and clearer skies. Climbing during the wet seasons, from April to May and November to December, can be more challenging due to muddy trails and poor visibility.
No technical climbing skills are required to climb Kilimanjaro. It is a non-technical trek, meaning no ropes or special equipment are needed. However, it is a physically demanding hike due to the high altitude and varying terrain. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential for a successful climb.
Accommodations on Kilimanjaro vary by route. The Marangu Route offers hut accommodations with basic facilities such as beds, mattresses, and communal dining areas. Other routes, such as Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai, require camping in tents. Porters carry the camping equipment and set up the tents at designated campsites.
Physical preparation is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb. It is recommended to start training at least 2-3 months before the climb. Focus on aerobic exercises such as hiking, running, and cycling to build endurance. Strength training for legs, core, and upper body will also be beneficial. Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate the conditions on the mountain.
Packing for Kilimanjaro requires careful consideration of the weather and terrain. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, and a headlamp. Other important items are sun protection, a first aid kit, hydration systems, and high-energy snacks. A detailed packing list is usually provided by tour operators.
Yes, altitude sickness is common on Kilimanjaro due to the rapid ascent to high altitudes. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization, such as following the "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) approach, staying hydrated, and taking acclimatization days, can help mitigate the effects. Some climbers may also take medication like Diamox to prevent altitude sickness.
Yes, it is mandatory to climb Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide and porters. The Tanzanian government requires all climbers to be accompanied by a registered tour operator. Guides are experienced in navigation, first aid, and handling altitude-related issues, ensuring the safety and success of your climb.
The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro can vary widely depending on the route, duration, and tour operator. On average, expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 per person. This cost typically includes park fees, guide and porter fees, food, and accommodations. Additional expenses may include flights, gear, tips, and personal expenses.
Summit success rates vary by route and individual preparation. On average, the overall success rate for reaching the summit is around 65-75%. Routes that allow for more acclimatization days, such as Lemosho and Northern Circuit, generally have higher success rates, often exceeding 85%.
The food provided on Kilimanjaro is typically high in carbohydrates and calories to meet the energy demands of the climb. Meals often include porridge, bread, fruits, vegetables, pasta, rice, and meat. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with prior notice. Hydration is also crucial, and climbers are encouraged to drink plenty of water and hot beverages like tea.
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