From Kilimanjaro Airport (Jro) in Tanzania: 7 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route

Forest Camp to Shira I Camp

Elevation (ft): 9,500ft to 11,500ft

Distance: 8 km

Hiking Time 5-6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

You follow the trail as it leaves the forest and enters a savannah filled with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks covered in lichen. Climbing through lush, rolling hills and crossing a number of streams, you arrive at Shira Ridge before descending gently to Shira 1 Camp. The view of Kibo across the plateau is truly breathtaking.

Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp

Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800 ft

Distance: 14 km

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

You’ll spend a full day exploring the Shira Plateau, taking a gentle walk eastward toward the glaciated peak of Kibo. The trail crosses the expansive plateau and leads to Shira II Camp, set in moorland meadows beside a stream. The Shira Plateau ranks among the highest plateaus in the world.

Shira II Camp to Lava Tower Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,800ft to 13,000ft

Distance: 7 km

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Semi Desert

From the Shira Plateau, the trail leads eastward up a ridge, passing a junction that heads toward Kibo’s peak. The route then turns southeast toward Lava Tower Camp, also known as the "Shark’s Tooth" Shortly after passing the tower, you reach another junction that ascends to the Arrow Glacier at 16,000 feet. From there, you descend to Barranco Camp, located at 13,000 feet, where you’ll rest, have dinner, and spend the night. Although you finish the day at the same altitude you began, this stage is vital for acclimatization and prepares your body for the summit attempt.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 15,000ft

Distance: 9km

Hiking Time: 8-10 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

After breakfast, depart from Barranco Camp and ascend a steep ridge, crossing the iconic Barranco Wall on your way to the Karanga Valley campsite. From Karanga, you continue to the trail junction that joins with the Mweka Route and proceed onward to Barafu Camp. This marks the completion of the South Circuit, which provides spectacular views of the summit from various perspectives. At Barafu, you’ll set up camp, relax, have dinner, and get ready for your summit attempt. From this vantage point, the twin peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are clearly visible.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Summit to Mweka Camp

In the early hours between midnight and 2 a.m., your Kilimanjaro summit push begins from Barafu Camp, navigating past the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You climb steadily northwest on steep, loose scree toward Stella Point at the crater rim, the toughest section both mentally and physically. At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you pause for a short rest, and if the skies are clear, you witness one of the most breathtaking African sunrises. From there, a final hour’s climb—sometimes across snow—brings you to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa at 19,345 ft. After celebrating this remarkable achievement, you descend to Barafu for lunch, then continue to Mweka Camp at 10,000 ft, nestled in the forest zone, where mist or rain often falls and a final warm dinner with well-earned rest awaits.

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

After breakfast, you continue the descent down to the Mweka Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and T-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). A vehicle will meet you at Mweka gate to drive you back to the hotel in Moshi.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).