Climbing Kilimanjaro

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet an African Big Cats Safaris representative and transfer to the hotel in Moshi. Evening briefing with our managers and gear check.

After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250m) for registration. The trail begins through lush montane rainforest, home to black and white colobus monkeys. The path is gentle, winding through ancient trees draped in moss. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp surrounded by forest.

Leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. The vegetation transitions to giant heathers and wildflowers. Views of Kibo peak begin to emerge. The Shira Plateau stretches before you - one of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones. Camp on the edge of the plateau with spectacular sunset views.

A relatively gentle day crossing the Shira Plateau. This is an important acclimatization day as you gain altitude gradually. Optional afternoon hike to Shira Cathedral (3,872m) for better acclimatization. The plateau offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape and Kibo cone ahead.

The classic "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower at 4,630m for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp. This altitude exposure is crucial for summit success. The Barranco Wall rises dramatically above camp - tomorrow's exciting challenge!

Start early to climb the famous Barranco Wall - a highlight of the Lemosho route! Though it looks intimidating, it's more of a scramble than technical climbing. Use hands and feet to navigate the rocky face with amazing views. After conquering the wall, traverse valleys to Karanga Camp, the last water point before the summit.

A short but steep ascent to Barafu (meaning "ice" in Swahili), your summit base camp. Arrive by lunchtime, rest, hydrate, and prepare your summit gear. Your guide will brief you on the night ahead. Try to sleep early - you'll wake around midnight for the summit push!

The big day! Start around midnight, climbing through the darkness with headlamps under a canopy of stars. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at sunrise - an emotional moment! Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa! Take photos, celebrate, then descend to Mweka Camp. An unforgettable achievement!

Final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). Receive your summit certificates and tip your amazing crew! Transfer back to your hotel where a hot shower and celebration dinner await. Congratulations - you've conquered Kilimanjaro!