Climbing Kilimanjaro

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet an African Big Cats Safaris representative, and transfer to the hotel. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access.

In the evening there will be a briefing with our managers, who will also make sure you are ready to begin the climb.

After breakfast, you will be driven to Machame Gate (1,800 m / 5,905 ft). After completing registration formalities, the trek begins through the lush montane rainforest. The trail is steep in places but well-maintained.

You will walk through beautiful rainforest with a chance to spot Colobus monkeys and various bird species. Arrive at Machame Camp (3,000 m / 9,843 ft) for your first night on the mountain.

Today you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. The trail climbs steadily through heather and giant lobelias. As you gain altitude, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Kibo Peak.

You'll reach Shira Camp (3,840 m / 12,598 ft) on the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones.

This is an important acclimatization day following the "climb high, sleep low" principle. You'll trek up to Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) for lunch, experiencing the alpine desert zone.

After lunch, you descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m / 12,992 ft). This helps your body adjust to the altitude. The views of the Western Breach and Breach Wall are spectacular.

Today starts with the famous Barranco Wall! This is a highlight of the Machame route - a steep scramble that looks intimidating but is very achievable with the help of your guides. The views from the top are absolutely worth it!

After conquering the wall, you continue across the Karanga Valley to Karanga Camp (4,035 m / 13,238 ft).

A shorter day to prepare for the summit attempt. You'll trek to Barafu Camp (4,673 m / 15,331 ft) - the launch point for your final push to Uhuru Peak.

Rest well, hydrate, and prepare mentally for the midnight summit attempt. Your guides will brief you on what to expect and ensure all your gear is ready.

The big day! You'll wake around midnight and begin the final ascent under a sky full of stars. The climb is challenging but your guides will set a steady pace, encouraging you every step of the way.

You'll reach Stella Point (5,756 m) as the sun rises, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft) - the Roof of Africa! Celebrate your incredible achievement!

After photos and celebration, you'll descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for your final night on the mountain.

Final descent through the beautiful rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m). Here you'll receive your well-deserved summit certificates and say goodbye to your amazing mountain crew.

Transfer back to your hotel to celebrate your incredible achievement with a hot shower and celebratory meal!