Route: Kilimanjaro Full Circuit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (as per itinerary)
Trek Overview
The Kilimanjaro Full Circuit Trek is the ultimate way to explore Africa’s highest peak, offering the longest and most scenic route. This 10-day adventure allows trekkers to gradually acclimatize, pass through diverse ecological zones, and enjoy breathtaking 360° views of the mountain, glaciers, and surrounding landscapes.
Along this route, hikers will experience lush rainforest, moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and senecias, alpine desert, and high-altitude glaciers. With smaller trekking groups on this circuit, you enjoy a more private, immersive Kilimanjaro experience with expert guides ensuring your safety and comfort.
Day 1 — Arrival in Moshi & Trek Preparation
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Moshi, meet your professional guides and porters, check your gear, and attend a detailed trek briefing. This session covers the route, safety tips, and acclimatization strategies. Relax and enjoy dinner at your hotel while preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 — Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Begin your trek from Machame Gate, entering the lush rainforest zone. Trek through moss-draped trees, listen to the sounds of exotic birds, and enjoy the cool forest air. The trail ascends gradually, allowing your body to acclimatize while offering incredible views of Kilimanjaro's southern slopes. Reach Machame Camp, set in a picturesque clearing, and rest.
- Steady climb through dense rainforest
- Opportunity to spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds
- Camp at Machame (2,835m), surrounded by dramatic scenery
Day 3 — Machame Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. Enjoy the sight of giant lobelias and expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s slopes. Trek gradually with plenty of opportunities to acclimatize. Camp at Shira 1, taking in the sunset over the plateau.
- Transition from rainforest to moorlands
- Panoramic views of Shira Plateau
- Optional short acclimatization hikes
Day 4 — Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Continue across the Shira Plateau, enjoying its dramatic vistas and unique flora. This section is relatively gentle, allowing for proper acclimatization while taking in Kilimanjaro’s majestic views. Camp at Shira 2, surrounded by rocky outcrops and panoramic landscapes.
- Traverse plateau with exceptional scenery
- Gentle trekking for acclimatization
- Camp at Shira 2 (3,850m) under starry skies
Day 5 — Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
Hike past lava cliffs and boulder-strewn paths toward the Barranco Valley. Experience stunning geological formations and sweeping views across the southern slopes. Climb the iconic Barranco Wall before reaching camp for a rewarding sense of achievement.
- Cross boulder fields and alpine desert terrain
- Climb Barranco Wall for panoramic vistas
- Camp at Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Day 6 — Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Trek through the Karanga Valley, a beautiful alpine desert landscape. The trail ascends gently, allowing climbers to continue acclimatizing. Camp at Karanga, enjoying views of the summit and surrounding glaciers.
- Gentle ascent through Karanga Valley
- Stunning vistas of glaciers and peaks
- Camp at Karanga Camp (4,000m)
Day 7 — Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Trek steadily to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Take time to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the dramatic mountain landscapes. Optional short hikes nearby can aid acclimatization and offer stunning photo opportunities.
- Steep ascent to Barafu Camp (4,600m)
- Preparation for summit attempt
- Optional acclimatization hikes
Day 8 — Summit Uhuru Peak & Descent to Mweka Camp
Begin the pre-dawn climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to catch the stunning sunrise from Africa’s highest point. After celebrating your achievement, descend carefully to Mweka Camp, reflecting on the epic journey and enjoying a well-earned rest.
- Pre-dawn ascent to summit
- Sunrise at Uhuru Peak
- Descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Day 9 — Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Return to Moshi
Complete the trek by walking through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi. Celebrate your accomplishment and enjoy a warm shower, good food, and comfortable rest.
- Final descent through rainforest
- Summit certificate presentation
- Transfer to hotel in Moshi
Day 10 — Departure from Moshi
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or your next destination, concluding your epic 10-day Full Circuit adventure. Reflect on the unforgettable landscapes, wildlife encounters, and personal achievement of conquering Kilimanjaro’s summit.
Inclusions
- All Kilimanjaro park and camping/hut fees
- Professional guides, cooks, and porters
- Full board meals during trek
- Private transfers from/to Moshi
- Bottled water, tents, and sleeping bags if needed
- Summit certificate
Exclusions
- International flights
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking
- Personal trekking gear (boots, jackets, walking sticks)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses and drinks