Professional advice
I'll help you plan your trip, give you advice on equipment, and get you ready to give you the best possible chance to reach the summit
August 2021 (TBC) Book now!
Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest mountain at 5,895m (19,341 ft). Mount Kilimanjaro consists of three volcanic cones, Shira, Mawenzi and Kibo. The summit peak, Uhuru, Kilimanjaro's highest point, located on Kibo, that is the ultimate aim for trekkers who come from around the world.
Her magnificent crown often shrouded in cloud, the presence of this magnificent dormant volcano isn't truly appreciated until you physically see her towering above the acacia covered plains of East Africa.
Kilimanjaro, Western Breach route itinerary
Our signature trip to the summit is via the Western Breach route. We also arrange 7 or 8 day treks via the Lemosho and Machame routes. We prefer not to use the Marangu route, as the summit success rate can not be guaranteed on a route that does not allow sufficient time to acclimatise. We will however provide support where teams can show that they are adequately acclimatised (e.g.: have just completed any of the other 5000m peaks in Africa).
Day 1 - Arrive Moshi
Arrive from your home countries into Kilimanjaro International Airport, from where you'll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Spend the day exploring and relaxing while shaking off jet lag. Optional joint dinner with fellow trekkers.
Day 2 - Drive to Umbwe Gate (1,600m), trek to Umbwe Camp (2,850m); 10.5km / 6 miles
We drive from Moshi to Machame Gate where we get our permits and pay park fees, and then continue to Umbwe Gate. Our trek begins along a forestry track, then climbs quite steeply between the Lonzo and Umbwe Rivers. We camp close to Umbwe Cave for the night.
Distance: 10.5km; 5-7 hrs
Day 3 - Trek to Barranco Camp (3,900m)
We leave our camp after breakfast, with the landscape changing from rain forest to moorland. We follow the Unbwe Ridge upwards until it flattens out into the Barranco Valley. On clear days Kibo is visible from our camp.
Distance: 6.5km; 4-6 hours
Day 4 - Trek to Lava Tower (4,600m)
Today's trek takes us to the Lava Tower Camp. We arrive at about lunch time and relax for the rest of the day, giving our bodies a chance to rest, recuperate and acclimatise. Trek to Lava Tower Lava Tower 4600. (Remember to bring a book to read, some music to listen to, etc.)
Day 5 - Trek to Arrow Glacier hut (4,900m)
We only trek for about 2 hours today. The remainder of the day is spent relaxing and allowing our bodies to get used to the altitude.
Day 6 - Western Breach to Crater Camp (5800m)
We start early while the ground is frozen, which allows for a more safer passage through the short rockfall zone. After about 6-7 hours we reach the Crater Camp, having passed the Northern Ice Field and Furtwangler Glacier. If you're feeling fit you can visit the Ash Pit, and even summit Uhuru peak.
Day 7 - Summit day: Uhuru Peak or Ash Pit/return to Mweka Camp
We have a short 2 hour climb in the morning to get to the top of Africa before sunrise. We take time to take as many pictures as we want, and enjoy our accomplishment! Then we start making our way down to Mweka Camp via Stella Point. (If you're feeling fit we can descend all the way to Mweka Gate!)
Day 8 - Descend to Mweka Gate
After breakfast we continue our descent to Mweka Gate. At Mweka Gate we sign the register and are presented with our certificates by the lead guide. After we've handed out tips and said our good byes to porters we are driven to our hotel in Moshi. In the evening we have a group celebratory dinner.
Day 9 - Start Safari - or transfer to airport
Transfer to airport for return flights / or join local safari
From Platberg to Kilimanjaro - via Mount Stanley, Mount Kenya, and Mont-aux-Sources
Harry describes his journey to the top of Kilimanjaro. Experiences he had, like drinking tea with a marijuana farmer. Problems with trekking organisers, like running out of food. Some observations will make you smile; others touch you emotionally. Part travel story. Part guidebook. Information for trekkers and an easy read for armchair travellers.
August 2021 (TBC) Book now!
Key facts
| Location | Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania |
|---|---|
| Height | 5,895 m / 19,341 ft |
| Duration | 9 days ... Tours start and end in Moshi and last for 9 days (8 nights) |
| Price | Starts from US$ 4440 |
| Group size | 12 people (max) ... (Note! This may vary for private trips where groups of 30 or more can be accommodated.) |
| Currency | Tanzanian Shilling ... Tzh 10,000 = USD 4.32 (June 2020) |
| Visas | Required for most ... |
Personal equipment
Purchases for personal use (including snacks and drinks), and any meals not taken with the group.
Everything else, from the moment you land, to the moment you check in to return home, is included.
Price includes all accommodation, meals (except lunches and/or dinners not taken with the group), full support of English-speaking Tour Leader, Local trekking/climbing guide, plus assistant guides, cook and porters on trek, bottled/purified water on trek, all ground transfers, permits and hut fees, rescue insurance, tips to porters (so that you don't have to worry if you are giving too much or too little; you may of course tip individuals extra for special service).
This trip carries oxygen for emergency use, and a private toilet.
Yes! Every person joining this trip is insured against cancellation, high-altitude rescue, medical emergencies, repatriation and loss of personal equipment!