Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with Sarafika Safaris
Mount Kilimanjaro Overview
At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. It is one of the Seven Summits and is located within Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania. This snow-capped peak is a dormant volcano, offering an unforgettable experience to those who venture to its summit.
Who Can Climb Kilimanjaro?
Anyone from children over the age of 10 to older generations in their 60s and 70s can climb Kilimanjaro. All you need is determination and the will to reach the summit. The real challenge is the altitude and the rate of ascent. Don’t worry—Sarafika Safaris will be with you every step of the way! Our guides are highly skilled professionals and are key to your success.
Can You Climb Kilimanjaro Without Experience?
Kilimanjaro is not a technical climb and is suitable for beginners with little or no experience. However, you need to be fit and prepared for the challenge. Success depends on not rushing the climb to avoid altitude sickness. Having the right equipment, such as a good pair of broken-in boots, and some practice beforehand is essential.
Kilimanjaro Routes
There are seven established routes up Kilimanjaro, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Sarafika Safaris organizes treks using five of these routes: Machame, Shira, Rongai, Lemosho, and Northern Circuit.
Lemosho Route (Preferred)
- The Lemosho Route is considered the most interesting and balanced trek. It offers spectacular scenery and wildlife while not being as demanding as the Umbwe route. It has a high summit success rate and low traffic. This route is longer and more expensive, but it provides a pleasant, relatively flat hike across the plain from west to east.
Machame Route (Most Popular)
- The Machame Route is popular for its impressive views and variety of habitats. Most climbers choose the 7-day version to ensure proper acclimatization before reaching the summit. The 6-day route is also safe for most active individuals.
Rongai Route (Recommended)
- The Rongai Route starts from the northern side of Kilimanjaro, offering a relatively unspoiled wilderness experience with the possibility of seeing large wildlife like antelope, elephants, and buffalo.
Northern Circuit Route (Recommended – Longest)
- The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro. It starts in the west at Londorossi Gate and follows the Lemosho Route for the first two days before veering north near Lava Tower.
Shira Route (Recommended for Experienced Trekkers)
- The Shira Route starts at 3,600 meters and is not ideal for those with little or no high altitude trekking experience. It is similar to the Lemosho Route but starts higher up.
Marangu Route (Lowest Success Rate & Cheapest)
- The Marangu Route is not usually recommended by Sarafika Safaris because, although it is the only route with hut accommodations, these huts are often less comfortable than tents. It also has a lower success rate, especially the 5-day version, due to insufficient acclimatization time.
Best Time to Climb
The best times to climb Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons: January through March and June through October. These months offer the best weather and visibility, though trails can be more crowded.
- January – March: Less rain, warmer weather, moderate crowds. January is the driest month, making it great for less experienced climbers.
- March – May: Rainy season, fewer people, cooler weather, muddier trails, lower visibility.
- June – October: Dry season, cooler weather, more people. Popular due to summer breaks.
- October – December: Short rainy season in November, fewer people, warmer weather. December can be busier due to holidays.
Travel Dates and Duration
- Travel Dates: Any time of the year. Your travel dates are fully customizable.
- Duration of Trip: 10 days/9 nights
- Accommodation: Double occupancy (2 people sharing a room/tent or luxury climb)
Conclusion
Choosing the right route for your Kilimanjaro climb depends on your budget, available time, desired scenery, and crowd preferences. Regardless of the route, no special equipment is needed—just walking gear and a good level of fitness. Most importantly, an exceptional level of determination is required, especially for the final ascent to the summit.
Sarafika Safaris is dedicated to ensuring your journey up Kilimanjaro is safe, enjoyable, and memorable. We provide expert guides, proper acclimatization plans, and all necessary support to help you reach the roof of Africa. Keep climbing, and let Kilimanjaro leave you breathless and inspired.
The Machame route approaches Kilimanjaro through forest and moorland from the south-west, and joins the Shira route before traversing beneath the southern ice fields of Kibo. The rainforest is extremely beautiful and there is a tangible sense of wilderness once the higher elevations are reached. The views of Mt. Meru floating on the clouds are simply unforgettable. We make our final ascent by the Barafu route. The seven day itinerary gives maximum possible acclimatization and also gives us plenty of time to enjoy the magnificent scenery.
Day 1
Met upon arrival, and transfer you to the lodge for overnight at Outpost lodge or similar
Day 2
The climb starts from Machame Gate (1,800 m.) after a short walk through the attractive banana and coffee farms of Machame village. The path follows a ridge through dense mountain forest. This is the richest forested area on the mountain, and also the zone from where 96 % of the water on Kilimanjaro originates. We have lunch at ‘Halfway Clearing’, a small opening in the trees, and continue climbing steadily. The gradient becomes gentler as the forest slowly merges into giant heather close to the next camp near the ruins of Machame Hut (3,000 m.). We may get our first closer look at the glacial dome of Kibo if the evening clouds permit. [6-8 hours walking]
Day 3
A shorter day that begins by climbing up a steep ridge to reach a small semicircular cliff known as Picnic Rock, there are excellent views of Kibo and the jagged rim of Shira Plateau from here, and it is a good rest point too! The trail continues less steeply to reach the Shira Plateau. We camp near Shira Cave Camp (3,720 m.) which has some of the most stunning views on Kilimanjaro; close to the huge volcanic cone of Kibo, the spectacular rock formations of Shira Plateau, and looking across to Mt. Meru floating on the clouds [4-6 hours walking]
Day 4
A morning of gentle ascent and panoramic views, leaving the moorland plateau behind to walk on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch near the Lava Tower junction (4,500 m.) we descend to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3,900 m.), sheltered by towering cliffs and with extensive views of the plains far below. Barranco Camp [5-7 hours walking]
Day 5
A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us to an undulating trail on the south eastern flank of Kibo, with superb vistas of the Southern Ice fields. Lunch is usually taken at Karanga , the last water point, in a steep valley.
Day 6
After breakfast, the terrain changes to scree and we climb steeply to reach the Barafu Camp (4,600 m.) by mid- afternoon. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. [6-8 hours walking]
Day 7
We will start our ascent by torchlight at about 1 a.m. so that we can be up on the Crater rim by sunrise. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zigzag and a slow but steady pace will take us to Stella Point (5,735 m.), in about five or six hours. We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those
who are still feeling strong can make the two hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Barafu is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach our final campsite (3,800 m.) at the edge of Mweka Forest. Mweka Camp [11- 15 hours walking]
Day 8
The day spent descending through open moor-lands and the glades of forest and straight down through the rain forest down to the Park Gate. A sustained descent through lovely forest with lush undergrowth takes us to the National Park gate at Mweka (1,650 m.) [4-6hours walking] transfer to Arusha for overnight at Outpost lodge of similar
Day 9
Depart
Day 1
Met upon arrival, and transfer you to the lodge for overnight at Outpost lodge or similar
Day 2
After breakfast transferred to Marangu gate with your mountain guides, after gate formalities, start hiking from Marangu Gate (1800 m). Hike 3 to 5 hours through a fascinating rain forest to Mandara Hut (2700 m). Blue monkeys are sometimes seen. Look for a tiny flower called Impatiens Kilimanjaris; endemic to Kilimanjaro. Picnic lunch en route, Hike to Maundi Crater (45 min) or rest upon arrival at Mandara Hut. Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Mandara Hut
Weather: warm and humid. Wear T-shirt, shorts and lighter shoes. Water: available the whole time from a river along the route.
Day 3
After breakfast start hiking to Horombo Hut (3700 m). Leave the last glade of forest and follow the gently ascending path through the open alpine moorland. Today’s hike takes 5 to 7 hours, picnic lunch en route. The altitude begins to make itself felt cautioning you to walk slowly. “Pole pole” (slowly slowly in Swahili) is the order of the day while enjoying the flora and long view. Giant Senecios stands tall along the path. Kibo and Mawenzi Peak can be seen on a clear day. Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut
Weather: warm in the morning but cooler in the afternoon when clouds gather. Wear shorts, T-shirt and hiking boots. Carry a long sleeved shirt in the day path for the cool winds.
Water: fill water bottles at Mandara Hut. There is a stream half way to Horombo Hut.
Day 4
An extra day at Horombo to acclimatize to the higher altitude, a day walk to “Zebra Rock”, rocks striped by weather If energy is there, walk to the foot of one of the three peaks on Kilimanjaro, Mawenzi. Return to Horombo in the afternoon. Pack lunch en route, dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 5
Hike slowly (6 hours) to Kibo Hut, Today leave moorland and enter the alpine desert past giant lobelia and walk on the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Pack lunch along the way. Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Kibo Hut
Weather: It is cooler as the altitude has increased. Wear trousers and long sleeved shirt. Thick jacket or jumper in the day pack
Water: fill up bottles at Horombo Hut. 2 hours from Horombo Hut is the last water sign. The porters will bring water for tea and the hike in the early morning.
Day 6
Start around 2 a.m., reaching Gillman’s Point (5685 m) at sunrise. The path from Kibo to Gillman’s is the most demanding 4 hours on the whole climb. Continue another 2 hours to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak (5895 m). Descend to Kibo and Horombo Hut. Meals and overnight at Horombo Hut
Weather: cold; Effects of high altitude is felt. Wear everything you brought.
Water: the porters have carried extra water to Kibo. Ask them and the will fill your bottles.
Day 7
Descend to Marangu Gate. It is easier to go down than up. Packed lunch on way down, transfer to Arusha for overnight at Outpost lodge or similar on bed & breakfast
Day 8
Depart
Day 1
Arrive you are met and transferred to the lodge for overnight – Outpost lodge or similar on bed & breakfast
Day 2
(The briefing will be done the morning before departure) an early breakfast, after completing the necessary registration formalities at Londorossi National Park gate, it is an easy day of walking from the Lemosho road head up a small path through beautiful and lush forest. We have our lunch in the glades before continuing to Lemosho Forest camp (Mti Mkubwa) (2,650 in.). This area is home to a variety of game including buffalo, and so we are accompanied by an armed park ranger. [2-3 hours walking]
Day 3
We soon leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone of giant heather. The trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. There is a tangible sense of wilderness, especially when the afternoon mists come in! We might walk to the summit of Shira Cathedral, a huge buttress of rock flanked by steep pinnacles, before reaching the next camp (3,720 m.). This campsite has some of the most stunning views on Kilimanjaro, close to the glaciated dome of Kibo and the jagged rim of Shira Plateau. [6 – 8 hours walking] Shira 1 Camp
Day 4
After breakfast, we walk steadly to the next camp having the views of Mt. Meru floating on the clouds are simply unforgettable. 3850 m [4-5 hours walking] Shira 2 Camp
Day 5
A morning of gentle ascent and panoramic views, leaving the moorland plateau behind and starting the Alpine desert to walk on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch near the Lava Tower junction (4,500 m.) we descend to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3,940 m.), sheltered by towering cliffs and with extensive views of the plains far below. [6-8 hours walking] Barranco Camp
Day 6
A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us to an undulating trail on the southeastern flank of Kibo, with superb vistas of the Southern Ice fields. Lunch is usually taken at Karanga, the last water point, in a steep valley. Karanga Camp 4100m [3 – 5 hours walking] then the terrain changes to scree and we climb steeply to reach the Barafu campsite (4,600 m) by mid-day. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. There are often spectacular views to the plains far below from Barafu. [3 – 5 hours walking] Barafu Camp.
Day 7
We will start our ascent by torchlight at about I a.m. so that we can be up on the Crater rim by sunrise. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to Stella Point (5,735m.), in about five or six hours. We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the two hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Barafu is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach our final campsite (3,800 in.) at the edge of Mweka Forest. [11- 15 hours walking]
Day 8
A sustained descent through lovely forest with lush undergrowth takes ‘us to the National Park gate at Mweka (1,650 in.) [4-6 hours walking] transfer to for overnight at Outpost lodge or similar
Day 9 Depart
We avoid the crowded Marangu route on Kilimanjaro, preferring to approach the mountain from the north by the rarely-used Rongai route. The Rongai route starts just south of the Kenya-Tanzania border and has been almost unused for many years because the area was politically considered to be “sensitive”. Now open for climbing once again, experienced guides consider this ascent route to be both easier and more beautiful than the main Marangu trail. The Rongai route begins in attractive farmland and delightful forest, with the possibility of wildlife viewing, and passes through several different climate zones, adding considerably to the interest of the trek. We also add an extra day to the standard five day itinerary to ensure maximum acclimatisation and give ourselves the best possible chance of enjoying the magnificent scenery. Recent National Park statistics indicate that the chance of reaching the summit increases by at least 30% if an extra day is spent acclimatising. The deviation to Mawenzi Tarn is very beautiful and on a little-used trail through moorland. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north.
Day 1
Pick up from your hotel, to Rongai Nalemoru gate (1950m), you will meet your crew and begin your 6day ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. Hot lunch at Nalemoru gate. You will start the trek through winding path crossing maize field before entering a dense, mist covered forest area where the blue monkey, black and white colobus and bush baby can be spotted. The trek will take you 3-4 hours to arrive at Simba camp site (2650m). A night will be spent at Simba camp.
Day 2
After breakfast our trek continues up towards kibo to Second cave, a gentle incline through upper moorland and heather to a lower moorland and heather vegetation zone, hot lunch will be provided at Second caves camp (3150m). Spend the rest of your day resting or you might have small excursions for acclimatization towards Third cave. Chances of seeing kibo peak (the summit peak) and Mawenzi peak will be more. You might also have chances of spotting Jackals and sometimes buffaloes if you are lucky. The trek will take you 3-4 hours. A night will be spent at Second Cave.
Day 3
After breakfast our trek continues up towards kibo, passing through a more open short moorland and heather vegetation zone to Kikelewa caves camp. Lunch will be provided at your camp. Also Chances of seeing kibo peak (the summit peak) will be more. You might also have chances of spotting Jackals and sometimes buffaloes on this day too if you are lucky. A night will be spent at Kikelewa Cave.
Day 4
After breakfast Begin trek to Mawenzi Tarn Hut, 4,330m. A short incline through grassy slope leads to a tangible sense of wilderness; you will leave the short vegetation to a low desert area before reaching your camp Mawenzi Tarn Hut, whereby you have hot lunch and spend the rest of your day resting or you might have small excursions for acclimatization. Approximately a 3 to 4 hour trek, distance of 6km.
Day 5
The route becomes gradually steeper and rockier as we leave Mawenzi Tarn Hut. You will head up stark landscape up to ‘The Saddle’ – the broad lava-stone ridge – between Mawenzi and Kibo. Stunning views of the upper reaches of Kilimanjaro can be seen before you arrive at Kibo Hut (4703m) where you will have a hot meal in the afternoon, a relaxing evening and an early bedtime so you are well rested to start hiking at midnight for your final ascent to the summit.
Day 6
Setting off at midnight for the summit, this is the longest and most demanding day of the entire trek. The trail follows a long screed slope past the Hans Meyer Cave and then turns into a single file zigzag. A short rocky path requiring some scrambling leads to Gillman’s Point situated on the crater rim, 5685m. This part of the hike is very steep and is the most challenging section of the route.
Once you reach Gillman’s Point it is just another two hours to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Once there all your hard work will feel more than worth it as you will be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise over ice fields and the Mawenzi peaks. We will spend a short time at Uhuru Peak before starting our descent to Kibo Hut for a break and short time for you to rest. We will then head to Horombo Hut for our last night on Kilimanjaro and a very well-earned sleep.
Day 7
After breakfast we will descend to Marangu gate retracing our steps past Mandara Hut, back through the magnificent rainforest and finally reaching Marangu gate. Once at the gate you will receive your summit certificates, short celebrations with your porters and be driven back to your hotel where you can have a hot shower and well deserved rest!