Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Lemosho Glades (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)
You will be picked up at your hotel at around 08:00 am and transferred to the Lemosho gate located on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After the registration process, you will still start your climb steadily through the forests of the Lemosho glades to reach Big Tree camp where you will be spending the night.
Distance covered: 7km / 4.3mi
Approx. time taken: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2: Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3500m)
Today you will trek across a plateau of grassy moorland and heather scattered with volcanic rock formations. Our destination for today is the Shira 1 Camp from where there are often views of Kibo Peak floating on the clouds. We gain a reasonable amount of altitude today and parts of the route are fairly steep.
Distance covered: 8.5km / 5.3mi
Approx. time taken: 7 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)
Today you will get the chance to view the Northern Ice fields from the western side of the mountain with some unusual views of Kibo. Our steady climb across the moorland of the Shira Plateau will help with acclimatization and we enjoy great panoramic views. Our destination today is the Shira 2 Camp. In the afternoon you will take an acclimatization walk then head back to camp for dinner and overnight.
Distance covered: 8km / 5mi
Approx. time taken: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
Your trek starts with an ascent with far-reaching panoramic views, walking in to the climatic zone of the upland desert and on the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. You will reach the distinct pinnacle of the Lava Tower (4640 m), our high point for the day and a great place to enjoy your lunch. In the afternoon we make a steep descent to our camp for the night, located in the base of the Great Barranco Valley (3960 m), sheltered by towering cliffs but with extensive views of the plains below.
Distance covered: 10km / 6.2mi
Approx. time taken: 7 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
Our day starts by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. We then exit steeply, up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It’s a climb over rock, not technical but long and tiring. Passing underneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards the Karanga Valley. From here we have a steep climb up from Karanga valley to our night’s camp at Karanga camp, set at 3963m. For those feeling strong, we will go for a mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to around 4200m before descending back to camp for the night.
Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi
Approx. time taken: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
Our day starts by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. We then exit steeply, up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It’s a climb over rock, not technical but long and tiring. Passing underneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards the Karanga Valley. From here we have a steep climb up from Karanga valley to our night’s camp at Karanga camp, set at 3963m. For those feeling strong, we will go for a mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to around 4200m before descending back to camp for the night.
Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi
Approx. time taken: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
We start off at around midnight and walk steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. We will be climbing scree for 4 to 5 hours but gain incredible height over a short distance. The views are spectacular. We should be on the crater rim at Stella Point (5739m) as the first rays of the sun hit us. Spectacular ice cliffs within the crater surround us and the views of the jagged Mawenzi peak and beyond are breathtaking. Another hour’s walking takes us to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). We begin our descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on scree slope and track back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, before finally heading down to Millennium Camp for a long well-earned rest.
Distance covered: 13.4km / 8.3mi
Approx. time taken: 12 – 15 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 8: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
A gentle trek takes us down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where we complete park formalities and receive certificates, which you can hang up with pride! We are then met by our vehicles and return to the hotel in Moshi, where you can treat yourself to a hot welcome shower.
Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi
Approx. time taken: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast & lunch included
Total Cost Covers:
- Pre & Post Trek accommodation
- Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
- Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- Double layered Sleeping Mats
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- Filtered water throughout the trek
- Portable toilets and toilets tents
- Hot Water For Washing Purposes
- Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro international airport.
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Total Cost does not Cover:
- International flights
- Tip to the driver guide and hoteliers
- Insurance fees
- Cost of Visas.
- Bank transfer charges & card payments processing fee.
- Expenses belong to personal nature e.g. Drinks not included on the meal plans, personal purchases, Laundry, etc.
Some Tips
[fusion_accordion type=”” inactive_icon=”” active_icon=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” boxed_mode=”” border_size=”1″ border_color=”” hue=”” saturation=”” lightness=”” alpha=”” hover_color=”” background_color=”” divider_line=”” divider_hover_color=”” divider_color=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” title_tag=”h4″ fusion_font_family_title_font=”” fusion_font_variant_title_font=”” title_font_size=”” title_line_height=”” title_letter_spacing=”” title_text_transform=”” title_color=”var(–awb-color8)” icon_size=”” icon_color=”” icon_boxed_mode=”” icon_box_color=”” icon_alignment=”” fusion_font_family_content_font=”” fusion_font_variant_content_font=”” content_font_size=”” content_line_height=”” content_letter_spacing=”” content_text_transform=”” content_color=”var(–awb-color8)” toggle_hover_accent_color=”” toggle_active_accent_color=””][fusion_toggle title=”Kilimanjaro safety – all you need to know” open=”no” class=”” id=”” fusion_font_family_title_font=”” fusion_font_variant_title_font=”” title_font_size=”” title_line_height=”” title_letter_spacing=”” title_text_transform=”” title_color=”var(–awb-color8)” hue=”” saturation=”” lightness=”” alpha=”” fusion_font_family_content_font=”” fusion_font_variant_content_font=”” content_font_size=”” content_line_height=”” content_letter_spacing=”” content_text_transform=”” content_color=”var(–awb-color8)”]Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is one of the world’s most popular hiking destinations. While it offers a thrilling adventure, it’s essential to prioritize safety during your climb. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Choose a reputable tour company: Selecting a well-established and licensed tour operator is crucial. They should have knowledgeable guides and provide essential safety equipment.
2. Acclimatization: Allow enough time for acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. It is recommended to take at least 6-8 days for the climb.
3. Physical fitness: Kilimanjaro is a demanding hike, so it’s important to be in good physical condition. Regular exercise, including cardio and strength training, can help prepare you for the challenge.
4. Proper gear: Invest in high-quality gear, including boots, clothing (layers), a warm sleeping bag, a reliable headlamp, and trekking poles. Make sure to pack essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a first aid kit, and a water purification system.
5. Hydration and nutrition: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the climb. Carry a water bottle and consider using a hydration bladder. Eat well-balanced meals with carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to maintain energy levels
6. Follow your guide’s instructions: Your guide is trained and experienced in navigating the mountain. Follow their instructions regarding the pace of the climb, rest breaks, and safety procedures.
7. Watch for signs of altitude sickness: Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, inform your guide immediately.
8. Be prepared for changing weather conditions: The weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable. Pack clothing that can handle both warm and cold temperatures, as well as rain and wind.
9. Respect the mountain and its environment: Kilimanjaro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important natural treasure. Respect the mountain by adhering to Leave No Trace principles, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding littering.
10. Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation. Ensure it is tailored to activities at high altitudes.
11. Be mentally prepared: Climbing Kilimanjaro can be physically and mentally challenging. Stay positive, maintain a determined mindset, and listen to your body.
Remember that Kilimanjaro’s safety ultimately lies in your hands. Proper preparation, choosing the right tour operator, and practicing caution will help ensure a successful and safe
[/fusion_toggle][fusion_toggle title=”Kilimanjaro Guides and Porters at Zepisa African Safaris” open=”no” class=”” id=”” fusion_font_family_title_font=”” fusion_font_variant_title_font=”” title_font_size=”” title_line_height=”” title_letter_spacing=”” title_text_transform=”” title_color=”var(–awb-color8)” hue=”” saturation=”” lightness=”” alpha=”” fusion_font_family_content_font=”” fusion_font_variant_content_font=”” content_font_size=”” content_line_height=”” content_letter_spacing=”” content_text_transform=”” content_color=”var(–awb-color8)”]We follow Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Program (KPAP) recommended guidelines on all aspects of guide and porter payments and welfare. KPAP publishes recommended tipping amounts for all operators which we adopt.
Recommending tipping amounts for Climbing Kilimanjaro are the same no matter which route you end up choosing. You should tip;
- Lead guide: $20/day
- Assistant guide: $15/day
- Porters: $10/day (for each porter)
- Cook: $15/day
These amounts are per group of climbers NOT per climber. You will be advised of the total size of your crew in your final briefing pack.
As a general guide for a climb for two people over 7 days, a normal crew would comprise 1 x lead guide, 1 x assistant guide, 1 x cook, and 4 to 6 x porters. If your climb is longer then the number of porters will increase as more food will need to be carried for everyone. Also, if you have booked a private toilet there will be an additional toilet porter who carries the equipment and makes sure it’s kept clean.
Tips should be paid to the head guide on the morning of the last day of the climb. The head guide will then distribute tips according to our strict policy.
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