We trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Following the little-used Lemosho route we climb and descend on different paths, walking through the mountain’s different climatic regions and admiring the changing plant and animal life. Highlights include the ice fields of Kibo, the daunting Barranco Wall and the breathtaking views from the summit itself. We also relax on the shores of the Indian Ocean on the spice island of Zanzibar and explore the historical capital Stone Town.
Itinerary
[+] Detailed Itinerary
1
Join tour Moshi
Arrive Moshi and meet your group. In the afternoon the Tour Leader will provide information and advice about the trek starting tomorrow.
Overnight Standard Hotel
Included meals: Dinner
2
Drive to Londorossi Gate; trek to the Lemosho Glades
After a drive through farmland and plantations we reach the Londorossi National Park Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. We continue from there to the Lemosho roadhead which is where we begin our trek up the mountain (2100m). We will climb steadily through the lush forest of the Lemosho glades to reach Big Tree camp (2780m). Porters will assist throughout the trek carrying all of our luggage. You only need carry what you will need for the day – waterproofs, a camera, waterproofs, a camera, water bottle, extra fleece, sunhat and a packed lunch and 3 litres of drinking water. About 4 hours hrs walking.
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3
Walk to Shira Camp
Today will assist with acclimatisation. We are able to explore the grassy moorland and volcanic rock formations of the plateau. Our camp for today is at Shira One camp hut (3500m) rewarding us with views of Kibo Peak floating on the clouds, and a definite sense of wilderness when the afternoon mists come in. We do gain a reasonable amount of altitude today and parts of the route are relatively steep. About 7hrs walking.
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4
Walk to Moir Hut
Today we have the chance to view the Northern icefields from the western side of the mountain with some unusual views of Kibo. The terrain during our steady climb will change from the moorland of the Shira Plateau to the broad upland desert beneath the Lent Hills with great panoramic views. Our camp will be close to Moir Hut (4175m). You can opt for a more strenuous walk to the lower part of the Lent Hills group (4300m) after lunch which is strongly recommended, or rest and relax around the camp in this remote corner of Kilimanjaro.(Approx 5 hrs walking)
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5
Trek to the Lava Tower
This morning we have a gentle ascent with great panoramic views, walking on the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the western breach until we reach the Lava Tower (4640m) where we camp this evening. This afternoon there is an optional more strenuous walk on the rocky slopes of the western breach with superb views of hanging glaciers at Arrow Glacier (4830m). This is highly recommended for acclimatisation and views. We can then return to enjoy the fabulous sunset (weather permitting) from our campsite. About 4-7 hours walking.
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6
Trek to Karanga
Today we have a steep descent into the base of the Great Barranco Valley (3960m) which is sheltered by towering cliffs but with extensive views of the plains below. We then climb the Barranco Wall which leads to an undulating trail on the south eastern side of Kibo providing us with great views of the Southern Icefields, if we are fortunate with the weather. The terrain ranges from volcanic scree to pockets of lush vegetation. An ascent takes us to our camp at Karanga (4035m) the last water point on the approach to Barafu. Karanga means peanut and this relates to the shape of the Karanga valley. This afternoon you have time to rest and take in the views. About 6-8 hours walking.
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7
Trek to Barafu Camp
This morning we have a steep climb out of the Karanga Valley following an easy path on compacted scree constantly gaining altitude with good views, until we reach our camp at Barafu (4640m). This afternoon we rest in preparation for the final ascent, after a very early night! About 3-5 hours walking.
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8
Walk to Summit; descend to Millennium Camp
Today we begin our ascent to the summit at 5895m. It is a strenuous and long day, particularly with the high altitude and extreme cold, so we will make a midnight start. At this time, the snow and scree are still frozen and we aim to be down before the top layer of scree becomes wet and slippery. Our path zigzags up the scree and after passing Rebmann Glacier, we reach Stella Point (5780m) on the crater rim. Although at times you may be able to walk for only 10 paces before you have to stop and rest, there is no doubt that it is all worth it when you reach the top. From Stella Point, you may continue around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5895m. Then we descend, down the scree to Barafu camp for a rest and then down to the Millennium camp (3790m). About 14 hours walking.
Overnight Basic Camping
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9
Walk to Mweka Gate; drive to Moshi
After a good rest, we pass through the rainforest enjoying the increasing warmth and richness of the mountain air. From Mweka gate (1630m) we will continue by road to Moshi and on to our hotel. We will have a well earned lunch in Moshi. Approx. 4-6 hours walking.
Overnight Standard Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10
Fly to Zanzibar; transfer to North Coast
With the morning free for those who wish to relax, we then take an afternoon flight to the exotic and friendly island of Zanzibar and transfer to the North Coast.
Overnight Standard Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
11
On the North Coast
Our time here is free for personal exploration and relaxation. It’s easy to spend time watching the fishermen bringing in their catch or maybe go out in one of the dugout canoes with them and try your hand at line fishing. Stroll or cycle along the beach admiring the vista. Alternatively with a mask and snorkel you can explore the colourful reef offshore, teeming with tropical fish. Scuba diving is also available nearby.
Overnight Standard Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
12
Drive to Stone Town
The image most people have of Zanzibar Town is one of exotic spices, sandy palm-fringed beaches, white washed houses and labyrinth of narrow streets. And all of it is true! Today, the alleys are filled with colourful bazaars with hawkers selling a myriad of goods and everywhere the atmosphere is permeated with the smell of spices.
Overnight Standard Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
13
In Zanzibar Town
While in Zanzibar Town, you may wish to spend time in Stone Town or you may like to take a tour of the island, (including lunch), and learn of Zanzibar’s history, visit the Sultan’s palace and see clove plantations established by the Sultan in the 19th century.
Overnight Standard Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
14
Tour ends Stone Town
The trip ends today in Stone Town after breakfast.
Included meals: Breakfast
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