This Kilimanjaro route is considered the most scenic and provides the best conditions for gradual acclimatization, greatly improving the likelihood of a successful summit. We operate this trek over six, seven, or eight days. The journey begins on the western side of the mountain at Londorossi Gate. Alternatively, climbers may choose the Shira Route, which starts at a higher and more demanding altitude.
After breakfast, you’ll depart for Kilimanjaro, with a drive of about two hours from Arusha to Londorossi Gate (2,100 m). Upon arrival, you will complete registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities before being transferred a further 12 km to the starting point of your trek beyond Londorossi.
Today’s hike takes you out of the forest and into open savannah, where tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks covered in hanging lichens dominate the landscape. You’ll climb through green, rolling hills and cross several streams before reaching Shira Ridge, then descend gradually to Shira 1 Camp. From the plateau, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Kibo rising dramatically in the distance.
After breakfast, the trek continues across and gradually up the Shira Plateau toward Shira Camp 2, located at 3,850 meters. At this point, you’ll meet climbers coming from the Machame Route while taking in sweeping views of the valley below and the impressive western breach of Kilimanjaro above. The plateau is open and exposed, so expect strong winds and early-morning temperatures that can drop below freezing.
From Shira Camp 2, the route climbs through the Shira Caldera before veering onto a quieter, less-traveled trail leading to Moir Hut. This is a long and demanding day that ends at a high altitude, where symptoms of altitude sickness may begin to appear. It’s important to monitor how you feel closely. Spending the night at this elevation will significantly aid your acclimatization for the days ahead.
On the fourth day, the trek leads you through a barren, desert-like terrain toward Lava Tower and the distinctive Shark’s Tooth formation at an altitude of 4,600 meters. After stopping for lunch at Lava Tower, you’ll join the Southern Circuit route, which descends to Barranco Camp at 3,900 meters. You’ll spend the night at nearly the same elevation as the previous evening.
Ascending to a higher altitude during the day and then sleeping lower is an effective strategy for helping your body adapt to the altitude.
After breakfast, the trek continues as you leave Barranco and climb a steep ridge, ascending the Barranco Wall on the way to Karanga Valley Camp. From Karanga, you’ll reach the junction that connects to the Mweka Trail. Upon arrival at Barafu Hut, you will have completed the Southern Circuit, which provides spectacular summit views from multiple perspectives. At Barafu, you’ll set up camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit attempt. From this location, both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks are clearly visible.
You’ll be awakened around 11:30 pm, and after a light snack of tea and biscuits, the summit climb begins in the early hours of the morning. The route heads northwest, ascending steadily over loose scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. Upon reaching Stella Point (5,685 m), you’ll pause briefly to rest and, if conditions allow, witness an unforgettable sunrise—often considered one of the most breathtaking moments of the climb. Time at the summit area will depend on the weather, but it’s important not to linger too long, as the extreme cold and fatigue can make restarting the descent very challenging.
After reaching the summit, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short but well-deserved rest and to collect your remaining gear. The trek then continues downhill to Mweka Hut (3,100 m). Take time to appreciate your achievement—this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll remember forever
After an early and well-earned breakfast, you’ll begin a short yet scenic hike of about three hours down to the park gate. At the gate, you’ll sign out in the official register and receive your summit certificate. Climbers who reached Stella Point (5,685 m) are awarded green certificates, while those who made it to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) receive gold certificates.
From Mweka Gate, the descent continues into Mweka Village along a typically muddy 3 km trail, taking around one hour. Upon arrival at your hotel, you’ll have time to freshen up and relax after completing your incredible journey.
