The tour begins with a trek through lush rainforest, filled with towering trees and a diverse array of flora and fauna. As you ascend, the terrain progressively changes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Along the way, you will traverse bridges over clear streams and rivers.

Distance: 11 km, Hours: 5-6, Habitat: Rainforest, Elevation (ft): 5,400 - 9,400. 

This stage of the walk takes you through the mountain's center, where the environment changes from lush rainforest to drier, more desolate terrain. You'll witness breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks as well as rare species and vegetation along the route. The climb is difficult, with steep inclines and rough ground, but the spectacular views make it all worthwhile. When you get to Shira Camp, you'll be rewarded with a sense of achievement as well as a cozy spot to spend the night.

Distance: 5 km, Hours: 4-6, Habitat: Moorland, Elevation (ft): 9,400 to 12,500

The hike involves a steep ascent, followed by a steep descent into the Barranco Valley. Along the way, you'll cross some ridges and valleys. As you proceed, our path will take you to the southeast, towards the "Shark's Tooth" Lava Tower. Shortly beyond the tower, you will come to the second junction, which will take you to the Arrow Glacier, which is located at an elevation of 16,000 feet. You will ascend Kilimanjaro's southwest flank, passing beneath the Lava Tower and the final portion of the Western Breach before arriving at Barranco Camp.

Distance: 10 km, Hours: 6-8, Habitat: Desert, Elevation (ft): 12,500 to 13,800

This leg of the climb takes you through a dramatic landscape that is both beautiful and challenging. You'll cross the famous Barranco Wall, a towering cliff face that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As you hike, you'll also pass through a unique alpine desert, where the barren landscape is dotted with bizarrely shaped cacti and otherworldly rock formations. The descent into Karanga Valley is steep and rocky, but the journey is worth it as you'll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and a peaceful place to rest for the night.

Distance: 5 km, Hours: 4-5, Habitat: Desert, Elevation (ft): 13,000 to 13,100

We leave Barranco after breakfast and continue on a high slope, via the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campground. Then we leave Karanga and arrive at the intersection with the Mweka Trail. We proceed up to the Barafu Hut. You have now finished the South Circuit, which provides views of the peak from a variety of positions. Here we set up camp, recover, eat dinner, and plan for the summit day. From here, one can view the two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo

Distance: 4 km, Hours: 4-5, Habitat: Alpine Desert, Elevation (ft): 13,100 to 15,300

It's summit day. The ultimate test of strength, endurance, and willpower. You will leave Bafaru camp at 2 a.m. and make your way to the top via the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You rise over severe scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim in a northwesterly direction. This stage is a demanding, physically, intellectually, and emotionally draining encounter that brings you to Africa's highest point.

As the first rays of the sun appear, you should be on the crater rim at Stella Point. The crater's spectacular ice cliffs surround you, and the views of Mawenzi Mountain and beyond are amazing. Another hour's hike brings you to your destination, the peak of Uhuru, Africa's highest point. You did it!

You will descend directly from the peak to the Mweka Hut campsite, pausing for lunch at Barafu. For the loose gravel heading down, you'll need gaiters and trekking poles. Mweka Camp is located in the higher forest, so expect mist or rain in the late afternoon. Later that evening, we will have our final meal on the mountain before retiring for the night.

Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent, Hours: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent, Habitat: Arctic, Elevation (ft): 15,300 to 19,345 (and down to 10,000)

Following breakfast, you will continue your descent to the Mweka Park Gate to get your summit credentials. You proceed another hour from the gate to Mweka Village. A van will be waiting to transport you back to your accommodation in Moshi.

Distance: 10 km, Hours:3- 4, Habitat: Rain Forest, Elevation (ft): 10,000 to 5,400

Rest day / Transfer to the airport for your next destination.