A full day exploring the Shira Plateau, one of the world’s highest plateaus. Hike east across the moorland, then divert toward Moir Hut at the base of Lent Hills (4,200m) with stunning views of Arrow Glacier. Optional walks on Lent Hills offer great acclimatization.

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Distance: 11 km
Elevation: 11,500 ft → 13,800 ft
Altitude: 4,200 m
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Climb up a ridge toward the Lava Tower (a 300 ft volcanic formation) for lunch and acclimatization. This is one of the toughest days and a true test of altitude adjustment. After lunch, descend about 650m to Barranco Camp (4,600m) through the scenic Senecio Forest. Though you end at the same elevation as you started, this “walk high, sleep low” approach is key for acclimatization. Enjoy stunning views of the Western Breach and Great Barranco Wall.

Moir Hut → Lava Tower
Elevation: 13,800 ft → 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Lava Tower → Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft → 13,044 ft
Distance: 3 km
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Altitude: 4,600 m
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Start the day descending into a ravine at the base of the Great Barranco Wall, then climb the steep but non-technical 900 ft wall. From the top, cross rolling hills and valleys before descending into Karanga Valley and making a final steep ascent to Karanga Camp. This shorter day is ideal for acclimatization.

Elevation: 13,044 ft → 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Depart Karanga and join the junction connecting to the Mweka Trail. Continue ascending over rocky terrain to reach Barafu Camp. Having completed the Southern Circuit, enjoy stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Rest and have an early dinner to prepare for your summit push.

Elevation: 13,106 ft → 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Around midnight, enjoy tea and biscuits before beginning the final ascent to the summit. This is the most demanding part of the climb, both mentally and physically, with freezing temperatures and strong winds. Reach Stella Point (5,732m) in time for a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu for lunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for your final night on the mountain.

Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft → 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft → 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

After breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,300m) and collect your summit certificates at the Park Headquarters. A vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha for a hot shower and a celebratory dinner.

Elevation: 10,065 ft → 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

After a restful night, say goodbye and prepare for your onward journey. Mana Seasons Safari will provide a private transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), or you can continue to a wildlife safari or Zanzibar beach.

Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Private transfer