From the Shira Plateau we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower we come to the second junction which goes to the Arrow Glacier. We now continue down to the Barranco Camp. Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.

Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: Semi-desert

Meals: B, L, D

Budget Camping: Barranco Camp

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail.

Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft

Distance: 5km/3mi

Hiking Time: 34 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: B, L, D

Budget Camping: Karanga Valley Camp

We continue up to the Barafu Camp. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day.

Elevation: 4673m

Distance: 4km/2mi

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: B, L, D

Budget Camping: Barafu Camp

This is the most demanding and rewarding day of the entire Kilimanjaro climb on Mount Kilimanjaro. The ascent begins around midnight from Barafu Camp under cold and dark conditions as climbers make their final push toward the summit.

The trail climbs steadily through scree and volcanic ash to Stella Point on the crater rim, where trekkers often witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. From here, the final stretch continues to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where climbers celebrate reaching 5,895 meters.

After spending a short time at the summit for photos and celebration, the descent begins back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, before continuing down to Mweka Camp for the night. This long descent leads back into warmer and oxygen-rich environments, marking the emotional end of the summit experience.