Arrival

Kilimanjaro Region - Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, the professional team will warmly welcome travelers to Tanzania and transport them to their hotel in either the Kilimanjaro or Arusha region, marking the beginning of their journey to the roof of Africa! After checking into the hotel and enjoying a brief rest, a pre-trek briefing will be provided in the late afternoon by the staff (guide) to outline the itinerary, safety measures, tips for a successful Kilimanjaro summit, and to check gear and expectations for the trek. This evening offers the opportunity to meet the climbing crew before enjoying a restful night in preparation for the adventure ahead. Depending on the travelers’ preferences, a hotel will be booked in Moshi town (mid-range accommodation) for easy access to the national park gate the following day.

HIGH-ALTITUDE DROP OFF DESTINATIONS AND TREKKING TO MTI MKUBWA CAMP (2,780m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - The guide and mountain support crew will arrive at the hotel to meet the travelers, introduce the crew, and provide another briefing. Travelers will be driven from the hotel to Lendorossi gate (2,200m). After a quick registration with the rescue service and obtaining a permit, the trek begins with a gentle walk through the lush rainforest. The trail meanders through this vibrant ecosystem, offering chances to spot monkeys, birds, and occasionally exotic plants (not guaranteed). The cool, refreshing air and rich greenery enhance the experience. Upon reaching camp, the professional mountain crew will prepare everything necessary, set up tents, and cook dinner. Due to a reduction in breathing patterns while sleeping, the body receives less oxygen than during the day. It’s important to pay attention to one’s body and inform the guide if any symptoms of altitude sickness occur.
Change in elevation to Mti Mkubwa (2,650m/ 8,700ft)
Distance covered to camp: 6km/ 4 miles
Hiking time: 3-4 hours

TREKKING FROM MTI MKUBWA CAMP (2,780m) TO SHIRA 2 CAMP (3,850m)

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, the trek continues, leaving the rainforest behind and ascending through an open landscape of grasses, wildflowers, and striking volcanic rock formations, entering the Moorland zone. This trek is not difficult, allowing for enjoyment of spectacular views of Africa and the surrounding areas. Upon reaching camp, travelers will be greeted by the cooler air of the alpine zone and a panoramic view of the majestic Shira plateau. Shira 2 camp is the best place on the trip to see Mount Meru (the fifth highest peak in Africa). Along the way, travelers can learn about local Tanzanian culture with the local guides through storytelling and Tanzanian songs to keep motivation high for the Kilimanjaro hike. Lunch will be provided on the way, and upon arrival, the camp and a warm dinner will be prepared by the experienced mountain crew.
Distance: 16km/ 8 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

TREKKING FROM SHIRA 2 CAMP (3,850m) TO THE LAVA TOWER AND DESCENT TO BARRANCO CAMP (3,960m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, the trek departs from Shira 2 camp (3,900m) for one of the most scenic days. The day begins by crossing the Shira plateau, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the towering Kilimanjaro glaciers in the distance. As the climb progresses, travelers reach Lava Tower (4,630m), a massive rock formation with awe-inspiring views. From here, the trail descends to Barranco camp (3,960m), aiding acclimatization by spending time at this slightly lower altitude before the summit push. If any participant feels unwell, the group may avoid passing the Lava Tower and adjust the route. Upon arrival at Barranco camp, the mountain crew will set up camp and welcome travelers for dinner and an overnight stay.
Hiking time:
Distance covered:

TREKKING FROM BARRANCO CAMP (3,960m) TO KARANGA CAMP (4,035m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - It is recommended to leave the camp early to avoid crowds from other groups. After an early breakfast on day 4, the trek focuses on tackling the iconic Barranco wall, a steep but non-technical climb through rocky sections and narrow paths. There is no need to worry, as the guides are experts at setting an optimal pace for the group. As the ascent progresses, stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s summit reward the effort, continuing toward Karanga camp (4,035m). The landscape is an alpine desert, with rocky terrain and striking mountain views. Once at camp, travelers can relax, enjoy a hot lunch, and savor the quiet atmosphere of this isolated site.
Distance covered: 5km/ 3 miles
Hiking time: 3-4 hours

TREKKING FROM KARANGA CAMP (4,035m) TO BARAFU CAMP (4,640m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - On day 5, after breakfast, the trek continues from Karanga to Barafu camp, the final camp before the summit attempt. The trail is steep, but the views are breathtaking, with Kilimanjaro’s glaciers towering overhead. The hike to Barafu camp covers about 4km with an elevation gain of 605 meters. As camp is reached, excitement builds in preparation for the summit ascent. At Barafu camp, travelers will rest and have an early dinner in preparation for the midnight departure toward Uhuru peak the following day. This night at Barafu camp is filled with anticipation, as the final stretch to the summit looms large.
Distance covered: 4km/ 2.5 miles
Hiking time: 4-5 hours

BARAFU CAMP (4,640m) TO UHURU PEAK (5,895m/ 19,340ft) & DESCENT TO MWEKA CAMP (3,080m) OR MILLENNIUM CAMP (3,820m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - The culmination of the journey: Day 6 is the summit day, beginning at midnight with the ascent toward Uhuru peak (5,895m), the roof of Africa. The trail is challenging with steep sections, but the climb is relatively straightforward, with the high altitude being the most demanding aspect. For added safety, each pair of climbers will have a personal guide. After 6-8 hours of hiking, the summit is reached, offering breathtaking views and immense satisfaction at standing at the highest point in Africa. After enjoying the summit, the descent begins through the alpine desert. Upon arriving at camp, travelers can celebrate their achievement. Note that more than 90% of accidents occur during the descent, so it’s important to pay attention to footing, but the guides will ensure safety.
Distance covered: 12km/ 7.5 miles
Hiking time: 6-7 hours to summit and 5-6 hours to Mweka camp or Millennium Camp, depending on ascent and descent timing.

DESCENT FROM MWEKA CAMP (3,080m) TO MWEKA GATE (1,640m) TO THE HOTEL

Mount Kilimanjaro - On the final day of the trek, the descent from Mweka camp to Mweka gate marks the official end of the Kilimanjaro journey. The descent is gradual, passing through lush rainforest filled with vibrant flora and fauna. Upon reaching Mweka gate, travelers will receive certificates of achievement, recognizing their success in conquering Kilimanjaro. Afterward, they will be transferred back to the hotel for a celebratory meal and a chance to reflect on the incredible experience. Travelers will meet their driver for the transfer from Kilimanjaro to Arusha, with the drive taking approximately 3 hours.
Distance covered: 10km/ 6 miles
Hiking time: 3-4 hours

DEPARTURE

Arusha - On the final day, depending on the flight schedule, the company offers a local activity and cultural tourism experience with a local and experienced guide. Once an activity is booked, the operator will highlight popular activities, offered at no additional cost to clients who climbed Kilimanjaro with the company. After a short activity, lasting 2-5 hours, travelers will be transferred to the airport. (The airport transfer depends on the flight time.)
NOTE: This last day activity is optional, but it is recommended for the experience.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

• Personal Gear like hiking cloth, Sleeping bags, footwear, etc
• Travel Insurance
• The Cost Of Getting To Tanzania
• Visa Fee
• Tips For The Mountain Crew (Guides, Cooks and Porters)

Opting for the 7-day Lemosho route on Kilimanjaro enhances both success and enjoyment. This extended itinerary allows for essential, gradual acclimatization, greatly minimizing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing the likelihood of reaching the summit. Additionally, you’ll encounter a variety of breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to the stark beauty of alpine deserts. Enjoy panoramic views and create lasting memories as you conquer Africa’s tallest peak.

Tanzania Songbirds Safaris is a registered company with over three years of experience in the Tanzanian tourism industry, and we are listed on various tourism platforms.

Reserve your Kilimanjaro adventure with us today for an unforgettable experience!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.