After breakfast and a trek briefing at your hotel in Moshi, you’ll drive to the Londorossi Gate, a journey that takes about three hours. From there, a rugged 4x4 track leads to Lemosho Glades, the official starting point of your trek. The hike begins through dense montane forest, where you might spot blue monkeys and hear the calls of colobus monkeys. The trail gradually ascends to Mti Mkubwa, or “Big Tree” Camp, where you’ll spend your first night on the mountain.

Your second day starts with a gradual but steady climb out of the forest and into the heather and moorland zone. As the trees thin, expansive views of the Shira Plateau come into view. The trail crosses several small streams before reaching the Shira Ridge, offering the first close-up glimpse of Kibo Peak. You’ll then descend slightly to Shira 1 Camp, set in a beautiful, open area near a stream.

The trek continues across the Shira Plateau, where the trail passes through moorland meadows before reaching Shira 2 Camp. From there, the route heads east through the striking “Garden of the Senecios,” entering the alpine desert zone. You’ll then join the Northern Circuit trail and make your way down to Moir Camp, a quiet and remote campsite at the base of Lent Hills.

Today begins with a moderate climb out of the Moir Valley, and for those with extra energy, there is an optional hike up Little Lent Hill, which offers stunning views from its summit. Rejoining the main trail, you’ll continue around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, moving through a landscape of high alpine vegetation. The day ends at Buffalo Camp, located in a sheltered valley with panoramic views stretching into Kenya.

The morning begins with a short ascent to the top of Buffalo Ridge before descending into the remote Porfu Camp area, where you’ll stop for lunch. After the break, the trail continues around the mountain’s northern side, bringing you to Third Cave Camp. The shorter trek and gentle altitude gain help with acclimatization, and you’ll likely arrive at camp by mid-afternoon, with time to rest and take in the quiet, stark beauty of the alpine surroundings.

Leaving Third Cave, the trail ascends steadily toward the Saddle, the broad, arid plain between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The scenery becomes more desolate and lunar-like as you cross this high-altitude desert. Eventually, the trail turns southwest, climbing towards School Hut, your base for the summit attempt. You’ll arrive in the afternoon, have an early dinner, and prepare your gear for the midnight ascent to the roof of Africa.

Just before midnight, you’ll be awakened with tea and snacks before beginning the most challenging part of the trek. Under a blanket of stars, you’ll ascend the steep scree slopes of Kibo, passing Hans Meyer Cave before reaching Gilman’s Point at dawn. The views from here are extraordinary, with Mawenzi Peak silhouetted against the morning light. The final stretch around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, takes about two more hours. After photos and celebrations at the summit, you’ll descend back to Stella Point and then down the scree slopes to Barafu Camp. A brief rest is possible before continuing further down to Millennium Camp for a well-earned night of rest.

The final day on the mountain takes you through the lush montane forest as you descend to Mweka Gate. The air is warmer and denser, and the vegetation becomes increasingly verdant. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and say farewell to your mountain crew. From here, a short drive returns you to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower, a celebratory meal, and some well-deserved rest.