6 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking Safari

Challenge yourself with a 6-day hiking safari up Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. This adventure takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, culminating at the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-time adventurer, this journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand on the “Roof of Africa” and enjoy breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha and Briefing

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with your arrival in Arusha, Tanzania’s gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit. After a warm welcome by your guide, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you’ll meet your trekking team. In the evening, you’ll attend a detailed briefing about the trek, covering the route, safety protocols, and what to expect during the hike.

This is also your chance to check your gear and ask any last-minute questions. The rest of the evening is free for you to relax and mentally prepare for the challenge ahead.

Day 2: Arusha to Machame Gate – Hike to Machame Camp

On the second day, you’ll begin your hike on the Machame Route, one of the most popular and scenic routes up Kilimanjaro. After breakfast, you’ll drive to Machame Gate, where you’ll complete the registration formalities before starting the trek.

The hike starts with a gradual ascent through the dense rainforest, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, ferns, and vibrant birdlife. The trail can be muddy and slippery, but the cool shade of the forest makes for a pleasant start. After about 5-7 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Machame Camp, located at an altitude of 2,835 meters (9,300 feet). Here, you’ll rest and acclimatize for the night.

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

After an early breakfast, you’ll continue your ascent, leaving the rainforest behind as the trail steepens and the landscape changes to moorland. The hike today is shorter but involves some steep sections, as you gain altitude and move closer to the Shira Plateau.

As you trek, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Mount Meru and the expansive plains below. After about 4-6 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp, situated at 3,750 meters (12,300 feet). The camp is located on the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic caldera that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s peak and the surrounding landscape. The evening is free to relax, enjoy the sunset, and prepare for the next day’s hike.

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Day four is an important acclimatization day, as you’ll trek from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp, passing by the Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation that rises to 4,600 meters (15,000 feet). The hike begins with a gradual ascent over rocky terrain, as you make your way towards Lava Tower.

Reaching the Lava Tower is a significant milestone, and it’s a great spot to rest and take in the views. After spending some time at this altitude to help your body adjust, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of the Barranco Wall, a steep and imposing rock face.

You’ll camp at Barranco Camp, located at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), where you’ll enjoy dinner and a well-deserved rest. The lower altitude at Barranco Camp compared to Lava Tower helps with acclimatization, which is crucial for your summit attempt.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

The fifth day begins with a challenging but rewarding climb up the Barranco Wall. Although the wall appears daunting, the trail is well-defined, and with the help of your guides, you’ll scramble to the top in about an hour. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Karanga Valley and the southern glaciers of Kilimanjaro.

The trail then continues across a series of ridges and valleys before reaching Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Barafu Camp is situated at 4,673 meters (15,330 feet) and is the last stop before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.

You’ll arrive at Barafu in the early afternoon, allowing time to rest, eat, and prepare for the summit push. After an early dinner, you’ll go to bed early, as the summit attempt begins around midnight.

Day 6: Summit Attempt and Descent

The final and most challenging day of your Kilimanjaro hike begins at midnight. After a quick snack, you’ll start the trek towards the summit under the light of the stars. The climb is steep and slow, but the excitement of reaching the summit keeps you motivated.

You’ll pass by Stella Point on the crater rim at dawn, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of the summit. From here, it’s a short but tough hike to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). Reaching the summit is an exhilarating and emotional moment, as you take in the breathtaking views and reflect on your achievement.

After celebrating at the summit, you’ll begin the long descent back to Barafu Camp, where you’ll rest briefly before continuing down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). The descent is demanding on the knees, but the lower altitude and the knowledge that you’ve conquered Kilimanjaro make it easier.

You’ll spend your final night on the mountain at Mweka Camp, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved meal.

Day 7: Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Arusha

On the last day, you’ll make the final descent to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate, marking the successful completion of your Kilimanjaro adventure. The descent takes about 3-4 hours and passes through lush rainforest, offering a chance to spot monkeys and birdlife along the way.

Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha, where you can relax at your hotel and celebrate your achievement. The evening is free for you to explore Arusha or simply unwind after the challenging but rewarding journey.

This 6-day Kilimanjaro Hiking Safari is the ultimate adventure for those seeking to conquer Africa’s highest peak. From the lush rainforests of the lower slopes to the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak, this journey offers a diverse and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or taking on Kilimanjaro for the first time, this safari promises an incredible challenge and the reward of standing on the Roof of Africa.