9-Day Trek | 11 Days Total From $9909 per adult

Our Most Popular Kilimanjaro Route

A stunning combination of the Shira and Lemosho routes, the Western Approach is the favorite for good reason. With fewer crowds, excellent acclimatization opportunities, and breathtaking landscapes—including Lava Tower and the Barranco Wall—this route provides both beauty and a high success rate. The daytime summit bid adds comfort and safety to an unforgettable adventure.

🗓️ Itinerary Overview

Arrival Day – Welcome to Tanzania

Meet your friendly staff at the airport and transfer to your scenic lodge in Arusha to unwind and prepare for the trek. 🏨 Overnight: Planet Lodge

Acclimatization Day – Ndarakwai Ranch

Spend the day at this private wildlife conservation area. Enjoy light hikes, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in the serene African savannah. 🏨 Overnight: Ndarakwai Ranch (4,200′)

Trek Day 1 – Forest Camp

Begin your journey through lush montane rainforest. Watch for black-and-white Colobus monkeys in the treetops. 🏕️ Camp: Forest Camp (8,694′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 3–4

Trek Day 2 – Forest to Shira 1 Camp

Climb through heathland to reach the wide Shira Plateau, with your first views of Kilimanjaro’s summit above the clouds. 🏕️ Camp: Shira 1 Camp (11,844′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 5–6

Trek Day 3 – Shira 1 to Moir Camp

Cross the plateau and ascend to Moir Camp, a lesser-used and quieter camp with views of Mt. Meru in the west. 🏕️ Camp: Moir Camp (13,780′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 5–6

Trek Day 4 – Moir to Barranco Camp

Pass the iconic Lava Tower (15,190′), then descend into the Great Barranco Valley, famous for its otherworldly vegetation and dramatic scenery. 🏕️ Camp: Barranco Camp (12,795′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 5–6

Trek Day 5 – Barranco to Karanga Camp

Climb the Barranco Wall, one of the most thrilling parts of the trek. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys. 🏕️ Camp: Karanga Camp (13,107′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 4–5

Trek Day 6 – Karanga to Barafu Camp

Enter the alpine desert as you approach the final base camp. Rest well in preparation for your summit bid. 🏕️ Camp: Barafu Camp (15,331′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 2–3

Trek Day 7 – Summit Day

Set off at dawn for the summit of Uhuru Peak (19,341′). Arrive in the early afternoon, when the trail is quiet and the views are unmatched. Return to base camp for a well-earned rest. 🏕️ Camp: Barafu Camp (15,331′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 8–10 (ascent) | 2–4 (descent)

Trek Day 8 – Descent to Mweka Camp

After a celebratory breakfast, descend into the lush forest zone for your final night on the mountain. 🏕️ Camp: Mweka Camp (10,171′) 🕒 Trekking Hours: 3–4

Trek Day 9 – Exit via Mweka Gate & Departure

Celebrate your achievement at the park gate with your guides and porters. Transfer to a day room in Arusha for a shower and rest before your evening departure. 🏨 Day Room: Planet Lodge

🎒 Add-On: Personal Porter

Let a dedicated porter carry your daypack (10–20 lbs) up and down the mountain, giving you more energy to enjoy the experience. Friendly and experienced, they’re focused solely on your needs. 💬 Ask about booking a personal porter when you reserve your trek.