
overview
“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”
Very similar to Lemosho route, however it starts at 3,600 meters and is therefore not ideal for trekkers who have little or no experience of high altitude trekking. On the first day you begin at Shira Gate to Simba Camp before joining the Lemosho Route on day two at Shira Camp 2. The high starting point is however a major negative for this route as many experience altitude sickness from day one without enough time to acclimatize.
The route over the Shira Plateau has several possible variations.After Shira Camp 2 the route joins the Machame Route via Lava Tower, and then descends to the Barranco Camp via the Southern Circuit. Ascent to Uhuru Peak is made via Barafu Camp and up the southern slopes of Kibo. The route is seldom used by other trekkers and so your initial two days on the mountain are less crowded than on most other routes.
Day by Day summary
Day 1: Shira Gate To Shira
Day 2: Trekking From Shira 1 To Shira 2 Camp Via Cathedral Point
Day 3: Trekking To Barranco Camp Via Lava Tower
Day 4: Trekking Baranco Wall To Barafu Camp
Day 5: Barafu Camp To Uhuru Peak Down To Mweka Camp
Day 6: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate

Tailor-made itineraries
Every Pumbaa Expeditions trip is custom-created to your exact travel wishes – no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch with our experts to start creating your bespoke itinerary.
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Kilimanjaro Expedition Highlights
Situated in the Kenyan border in Northern Tanzania; Kilimanjaro is the highest peak of the African continent. Acquiring 5,895m height it’s also the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Being the topmost mountain in Africa, this is a dream for hikers. There are 30,000 trekkers including the experienced to the aspiring one visiting Tanzania for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro Climbing is one of the most incredible experiences for climbers. It's a genuine experience that brings remarkable highs and testing lows. The greatest aspect of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – and what makes is so well known – is that it's available to nearly anybody. With the right planning, a solid ability, and an awesome support group around you, it's entirely possible to reach the summit.
Day-by-day
Itinerary Details
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Arrival Day
A representative of Pumbaa Africa Expeditions will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and escort you to tonight’s accommodations in Moshi. As local Tanzania our guides know the country with unrivaled familiarity, so you’ll be in good hands from the moment you land to the moment you leave.
- Transport: Private transfer (1 hour, 45km)
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
Note: Hotel check-in start at 02:00 PM. In case you need an early check-in we can arrange it for an extra fee.
Day 1: Shira Gate To Shira
You depart Moshi/Arusha for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4hours, where you will complete entry formalities while guides and porters prepare equipment. After lunch at the gate, drive for about 2hrs further up to where you’re hiking trail begins (Starting Point). The trek starts through shrubs and giant heather until you reach Shira 1 Camp.
- Hiking distance: 4km
- Hiking time: 1–2hrs
- Habitat: Moorland
- Overnight: Shira 1 Camp (All meals included)
Day 2: Trekking From Shira 1 To Shira 2 Camp Via Cathedral Point
You explore the Shira plateau for a day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau, which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth. You will cross Shira Cathedral for acclimatization and if the weather permits, Mount Meru (the fifth summit of Africa) is clearly seeing from Shira 2.
- Shira Camp 1(3,610m/11,843ft) to Shira 2 (3,850m/12,795ft) via Cathedral Point (3872m/12703)
- Hiking distance: 7km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hrs
- Habitat: Moorland
- Overnight: Shira 2 Camp or Moir Camp (All meals included)
Day 3: Trekking To Barranco Camp Via Lava Tower
From the Shira Plateau, you continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As you continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, you come to the second junction that brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. You now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of almost 13,000ft. Here you will rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
- Shira 2 (3,850m/12,795ft) to Barranco Camp (3,900m/12,960ft) via Lava Tower (4,600m/15,190ft)
- Hiking Distance: 12km
- Hiking Time: 6-7hrs
- Habitat: Moorland
- Overnight: Barranco Camp (All meals included)
Day 4: Trekking Baranco Wall To Barafu Camp
This is a great mountain day. You descend into the start of the Great Barranco and then exit steeply up onto the southern slopes of Kibo. You pass beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers and head up to the Karanga Valley, the last place where you can find water below the summit. You will pass Karanga campsite and the junction of the Mweka Trail before a final push across some scree to the Barafu campsite. From here you can see both the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo.
- Baranco Camp (3,900m/12,960ft) to Barafu Camp (4,667m/15,311ft)
- Hiking Distance: 13km
- Hiking Time 7- 8hrs
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Overnight: Barafu Camp (All meals included)
Day 5: Barafu Camp To Uhuru Peak Down To Mweka Camp
At 11:30 PM, you will wake up to steaming tea and biscuits. You will then take off into the night. Your 6-hour climb northwest through heavy scree between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers to Stella Point on the crater rim is the most challenging part of the route for most climbers. At Stella Point (5,685m/18,650ft) you stop for a short rest and a chance to see an outstanding sunrise. You cannot stop for long, as it will be extremely difficult to start again due to fatigue and cold. Depending on the season and recent storm activity, you may encounter snow on the remaining part of your hike along the Uhuru Peak rim.
On the summit, you can enjoy your accomplishment, knowing you are creating a day you will remember for the rest of your life. After a 3-hour descent from the summit back to Barafu Camp, you will have a well-earned but short rest, collect your gears, and hike down a rock and scree path to the moorland below and enter the forest to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft). This camp is in the upper forest, where you can expect rain and mist in the late afternoon.
- Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)
- Hiking Distance: 15.5km
- Hiking Time: 8hrs up and 7-8hrs down
- Habitat: Ice Cap
Overnight: Mweka Camp(All meals included)
Day 6: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
After breakfast, you will take a short scenic 3-hour hike back to the park gate.
At Mweka Gate, you can sign your name and add details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive summit certificates. Climbers who reached Stella Point are issued green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak receive gold certificates.
From the Mweka Gate, you will continue down to Mweka Village for Hot Lunch with your Mountain Crew and a small celebration before your drive to your hotel for warm shower and leisure.
- Hiking Distance: 12km
- Hiking Time: 3hrs
- Habitat: Montane forest
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
Departure
You will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to the airport to catch up your flight back home.
- Meals: Breakfast
Note: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee.
Group Discount
The price per person for group expeditions are fixed based on a group size. However, we have optional arrangements for individual private and tailor-made preferences best suited for you, your family and friends.
GROUP SIZE | PRICES PER PERSON |
---|---|
1 Pax | $ 2,432 |
2 Pax | $ 2,138 |
3 Pax | $ 1,930 |
4 Pax | $ 1,904 |
5 Pax | $ 1,891 |
6 Pax | $ 1,878 |
7 Pax | $ 1,865 |
8 Pax | $ 1,826 |




Inquiry This Tour
Group bookings: For groups of 20 or more please contact info@pumbaaexpeditions.com or call us on +255 (0) 784 759 796
MOUNTAIN HIKING PACKING LIST

- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (We have rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
- Puffy down jacket (We have rental jackets available for an additional USD 35)
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
- Sun hat or cap
- Knitted hat
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Neck gaiter
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Technical fabric short (2) and long sleeve (2) shirts
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Hiking pants (2)
- Comfortable pants for inside the teahouses
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Hiking shorts
- Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
- Hard-shell outer gloves (insulated for colder months)
- Wool or technical fabric warm socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks (optional such as silk)
- Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Ice Cleats/Micro Spikes (recommended to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.)
- Casual shoes
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy for snow in colder months)
Note: The quantity of each article of clothing can be adjusted to suit the preferences of each participant.
- Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
- Sports bras (women)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes
(Note: Guides carry medications and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Ointment
Once in Nepal, if you have the time, you can purchase supplies and gear for hiking. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, is home to many shops where you can get a variety of reasonably priced trekking equipment.
- Power bank or extra batteries
- Cameras and mobile phone
- Cards/book
- Binoculars
- Trekking poles
- Whistle
- Thermos for hot water
Includes & Excludes
Airport pick-up and drop-off
2 nights hotel accommodation before and after you’re a climb on bed & breakfast basis
Transfers to and from the mountain
National Park entry, huts and climbing fees
Rescue fees
A fully supported climb (average ratio of support staff to climbers is 4:1)
All meals and drinking water on the mountain
Access to first aid kit and emergency oxygen
A certificate documenting your summit ascent
NB: Depending on the availability, hotels of the same standard can be substituted
International flights and visas
Tips for your guide and crew
Travel insurance (you must be insured for trekking up to 6000m)
Visa fees
Your personal trekking gears
Snacks on the mountain
Meals and drinks not on the mountain
Speak to an Expert
Get advice and suggestions to make this your perfect trip.

Words From Our Clients
Don’t take our word for it
We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and Pumbaa Expeditions is rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.
Relax069762270642024-12-02Verified We couldn't have wishes for a better honeymoon experience than this one Our three-week honeymoon with Pumbaa Africa was like a dream come true. We started with a Mount Kilimanjaro trek via the Lemosho Route. Pumbaa’s team, led by the wonderful guide Alex, took exceptional care of us. They even surprised us with a small celebration at the top when we reached Uhuru Peak! After the trek, we enjoyed a luxurious safari across the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, where our guide Saidi made sure we had intimate wildlife encounters without the crowds.The final leg of our journey took us to Zanzibar for a beach escape. Pumbaa Africa arranged a romantic, private villa for us with views over the Indian Ocean. We spent our days snorkeling, taking sunset cruises, and exploring the vibrant Stone Town. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a deeply personal experience crafted with love and attention. We couldn’t be happier with our choice of Pumbaa Africa for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Journey528121877072024-11-27Verified Night game drive in Tarangi Absolutely breathtaking! My friends and I were excited to see nocturnal animals, and Pumbaa Africa made it possible. Emma was our guide, and she was phenomenal. Watching lions and hyenas under the moonlight was surreal. Thank you, Pumbaa Africa Expeditions, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience Sightseer399578076812024-11-27Verified Outstanding climate The Udzungwa Mountain tour was one of the highlights of my trip to Tanzania. The lush forests, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna made it feel like stepping into another world. John, our briefer, provided such detailed information about the route and what to expect. Pumbaa Africa Expeditions offers an experience unlike any other Wander535233937562024-11-24Verified Worth every penny Our fly-in safari was perfectly organized. Pumbaa Africa took all the hassle out of our journey, allowing us to focus on the adventure. Flying straight into the heart of the Serengeti and beginning our safari immediately was magical. Saidi, our guide, was knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife. Wander597526812942024-11-23Verified I highly recommend Zanzibar to anyone visiting Tanzania Our Zanzibar beach holiday arranged by Pumbaa Africa was incredible! The team found us a beautiful resort, and Erica ensured all our needs were met. From snorkeling to sunset cruises, the activities were fantastic. We couldn't have asked for a better way to relax after our Kilimanjaro trek Navigate347511040422024-11-18Verified Thanks For the Experience Unforgettable! Pumbaa Africa Expeditions arranged a trek up Mount Meru that was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Our mountain guide, Musa, was phenomenal — his experience was evident, and he motivated us the entire way up. We felt so safe and well-prepared. Highly recommend this for avid hikers. Trip198164622352024-11-18Verified The mountain of God We opted for the Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai trek and Lake Natron excursion, and it was phenomenal! David, our local mountain guide, ensured our safety throughout, and he was so informative about the geological wonders of the area. If you’re looking for adventure beyond famous peaks, Pumbaa Africa Expeditions is the way to go! Explorer318458795182024-11-14Verified Breathtaking Experience Our 7 day fly-in safari was the epitome of convenience and excitement. Flying into Serengeti and beginning our safari immediately made the experience thrilling from the start. Our guide, Saidi, made sure we saw everything — from lions to rare birds. It was a dream come true! Voyage403410150592024-11-14Verified We lived the moment. Pumbaa Africa Expeditions arranged a day trip safari to Ngorongoro Crater, and it was breathtaking. From the lush scenery to the abundance of wildlife, every moment felt like a scene from a documentary. Our guide, Emma, was friendly and knowledgeable. I’d absolutely book with Pumbaa again! Maps523581273552024-11-13Verified A day at Maasai Village Visiting the Maasai in West Kilimanjaro was an eye-opening and heartwarming experience. Pumbaa Africa Expeditions arranged everything with such respect for the local culture. Ryder did an amazing job coordinating, and the Maasai people welcomed us warmly. This was truly an authentic encounter, and we are so grateful for the opportunityTripadvisor rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 40 reviews
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
Sample Itineraries
From majestic wildlife to out of this world natural wonders, enchanting beaches and intriguing cities, every bespoke Pumbaa Expeditions is thrilling. Unsure where to visit? Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a milestone celebration or simply a much-needed escape, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of favourites.

Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and it’s the most hardest and challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
find out more

7 Days Umbwe Route
Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and it’s the most hardest and challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
- ages 12+
- 7 Days

9 Days Northern Circuit
This route avoids the crowds on the southern routes and over 9 days, you have a fantastic journey and a great chance of summiting successfully.
- ages 12+
- 9 Days

7 Days Rongai Route
The Rongai route is one of the least frequented of the official Kilimanjaro routes.
- ages 12+
- 7 Days