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Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha
Activity: Trek briefing and preparation
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you will meet your guides for a detailed briefing on the trek, safety protocols, and gear check. This is a crucial time to ensure you have the right equipment for the challenging Umbwe Route. You can explore Moshi town, rest, and acclimatize to the altitude. A good night’s sleep is essential before embarking on your journey.
Distance: 11km (6.8 miles)
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,650m to 2,850m (5,413ft to 9,350ft)
Accommodation: Umbwe Camp
The adventure begins with a drive to Umbwe Gate, where you will complete registration before starting the trek. The trail winds through dense rainforest, with towering trees and a rich array of flora and fauna. The path is steep, narrow, and challenging, ascending rapidly through the jungle. You may encounter blue monkeys and colobus monkeys along the way. The air is humid, and the forest provides a cool, shaded environment. As you gain altitude, the vegetation begins to thin, revealing glimpses of towering cliffs and ridges. After a strenuous day of trekking, you will arrive at Umbwe Camp, nestled among giant heather trees. Dinner is served at camp, and you will rest under a starlit sky, listening to the sounds of the mountain wilderness.
Distance: 6km (3.7 miles)
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,850m to 3,900m (9,350ft to 12,800ft)
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail climbs steeply through the moorland zone. The terrain is rugged, with rocky outcrops and scattered shrubs replacing the dense jungle. The towering peak of Kibo comes into view, providing motivation for the journey ahead. The altitude gain is significant, so a steady pace is crucial for acclimatization. As you ascend, the temperature drops, and the landscape becomes more dramatic. Upon reaching Barranco Camp, you are greeted with stunning views of the imposing Barranco Wall. This camp is situated in a picturesque valley, with giant lobelias and groundsels dotting the landscape. After a well-earned meal, you will rest in preparation for the exciting climb ahead.
Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 3,900m to 3,995m (12,800ft to 13,106ft)
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that requires some scrambling. It’s a thrilling ascent, offering breathtaking views of the Karanga Valley below. Once at the top, the trail levels out before descending slightly into the valley. The terrain is a mix of rocky paths and open plateaus, with dramatic cloud formations rolling in the distance. The oxygen levels begin to drop, making acclimatization breaks essential. Upon reaching Karanga Camp, you will enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and vast African plains. The short trekking distance allows for additional acclimatization, ensuring your body adjusts to the high altitude.
Distance: 4km (2.5 miles)
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 3,995m to 4,673m (13,106ft to 15,331ft)
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
The trail to Barafu Camp is a steady climb through the alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and strong winds. The path is well-defined but challenging, with loose scree underfoot. As you ascend, the temperatures drop significantly, and the landscape becomes more barren. Barafu Camp is the final stop before the summit push, perched on a rocky ridge with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. After an early dinner, you will rest in preparation for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Distance: 17km (10.5 miles)
Trekking Time: 12-14 hours
Elevation Gain: 4,673m to 5,895m (15,331ft to 19,341ft), then descent to 3,820m (12,532ft)
Accommodation: Millennium Camp
The summit attempt begins around midnight, with a slow and steady climb up steep switchbacks. The air is thin, making each step a challenge. Reaching Stella Point at sunrise is a breathtaking moment, as the sky glows in shades of pink and orange. The final stretch to Uhuru Peak is a test of endurance, but standing at the top of Africa is an unforgettable experience. After celebrating at the summit, you will begin the long descent to Millennium Camp, passing glaciers and rocky landscapes along the way.
Distance: 12km (7.5 miles)
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
Elevation Loss: 3,820m to 1,650m (12,532ft to 5,413ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
The final leg of the trek descends through the lush rainforest, with towering trees and diverse wildlife marking your return to lower elevations. The trail is easier on the knees, but trekking poles are recommended for stability. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
Activity: Transfer to the airport
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. The memories of Kilimanjaro’s majestic landscapes and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the summit will stay with you forever.
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