Departure from Moshi will be at around 7:30am for Londorossi gate, about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then continue up by car to Morum Barrier Gate (another hour to reach the trailhead) Upon arrival at trail-head, eat lunch, then commence through heather and moorland which lead to the first camp, only about 1-2 hours of trekking. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is stunning.

Full day exploration of the Shira plateau; Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth, averaging 12,500 feet. Trek east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, with the option to visit the ancient collapsed Shira cone and to scramble atop the ‘Shira Cathedral’ to overlook the oldest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanoes. Arrive at Shira 2 camp at 12,600 ft. Trekking time without the optional excursion is about 3 hours.

Proceed steadily upward trough the moorland and into the barren high altitude desert, toward Moir Camp. The surrounding landscape of bizarre plants, rock formations and caves mark this area. The trek is about 2-3 hours. Moir Camp is an isolated and seldom used camp affording views over the Shira Plateau, and upward to the rugged volcanic plugs called “the Lent Group”.

Begin the morning trek heading out of the moorland and into the stark alpine desert, on a steep ridge off the main trail, and begin our venture on the Northern Circuit Route. The total trekking time is about 5-7 hours. From the Pofu Campsite you will enjoy a magnificent view into Kenya’s wild lands to the north.

Proceed onward through valleys and over ridges through the alpine desert and moorland, continuing our circuit to the east, enjoying a vast mountain wilderness to ourselves. We arrive at the intersection with the Rongai Route after 4-6 hours trekking. Overnight at Rongai 3 Caves for the night.

This morning when exiting your tent, Mawenzi should be in plain view: a stunning sight. Once you leave camp, the moorland gives way slowly to the stark highland desert as we near the massive saddle, where the landscape spectacularly stark. The temperatures turn cold as you near the foot of Kibo, reaching Outward Bound Camp after 4-5 hours of trekking. Prepare all your gear for the day ahead, and turn in early to rest. Supply of fresh food and supplies will reach camp on this afternoon.

A midnight wakeup call is the start of a long trek. You begin trekking at 1 am up the winding path of endless switchbacks. From your camp to the rim of the crater (Gillman’s Point (18,750 ft./5,712 m) to Uhuru Peak, the trekking time is about 7 – 8 hours. The slope is steep, with switchbacks over loose rock and scree with some boulders as you near Gilman’s Point. You will stop at Hans Meyer cave on the way, the famous place where Kilimanjaro’s first western climber described in his journals. Once you arrive at Gilman’s Point at the edge of the crater, the trail to the summit is less demanding, and is reached after a further 1.2- 2 hours along the snowy crater rim (depending on the season). After a short time at the summit, re-trace your steps back to Gilman’s Point, then summon your strength again for further descent to Mweka Camp for the night.

Descend straight to the gate (2 – 3 hours), where you’ll have lunch and will be awarded climbing certificates. Private transfer back to Moshi, and drop at the hotel. Returning to the comfort and luxury of your beautiful lodge today will seem like a magical experience.