Embark on an unforgettable adventure with this 9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour in Tanzania, designed for discerning travelers who seek both the thrill of summiting Africa’s highest peak and the comforts of luxury along the way. Ascending via the scenic Lemosho Route, this itinerary offers a well-paced, immersive trekking experience through multiple climate zones from tropical rainforests to arctic alpine deserts. Coupled with premium camping services, Expert Mountain guides, gourmet meals, and deluxe accommodations before and after the climb, this journey blends challenge and indulgence in one iconic expedition. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a passionate adventurer, this high-end Kilimanjaro tour ensures you conquer the mountain in style.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by your personal driver and transferred to your luxury lodge in Arusha, nestled at the foothills of Mount Meru. Take the day to rest, recover from your flight, and prepare for the journey ahead. Enjoy the lodge’s amenities, whether that’s a massage, a swim, or a walk through coffee plantations.
In the evening, your lead mountain guide will meet you for a detailed pre-climb briefing, gear check, and introduction to the support team.
Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge by Elewana, Legendary Lodge, Gran Meliá Arusha.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Arusha to Lemosho Gate – Begin the Ascent (Lemosho Route)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 2,100m to 2,650m
After breakfast, drive from Arusha to the Lemosho Gate (approx. 3-4 hours) to begin your trek. The Lemosho Route is favored for its stunning scenery and lower traffic. Today’s hike takes you through the lush montane rainforest, with sightings of colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife along the way.
Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp in the late afternoon. Your luxury camping team will have your private tent suite set up, complete with a comfortable bed, high-quality sleeping gear, a private toilet tent, and warm water for washing.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp – Into the Moorland
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours | Elevation: 2,650m to 3,610m
Today you’ll ascend through the last of the forest into the open moorland, crossing ridges and valleys as you gain altitude. The scenery opens up dramatically with sweeping views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak.
Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, where your luxury tent is ready and your support team will greet you with warm drinks and snacks. In the evening, enjoy a candlelit dinner in the mess tent and take in the first clear views of the summit under the stars.
Day 4: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp – Acclimatization Day
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 3,610m to 3,850m
A shorter hike today allows for vital acclimatization. Traverse the gentle plateau landscape, where you may spot giant senecios and lobelias unique to the region. Upon reaching Shira 2 Camp, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Meru behind you and Kilimanjaro’s peak ahead.
Spend the afternoon relaxing, sipping herbal tea, and watching the sunset over the plains below. A delicious hot meal is served as the temperature drops and the stars begin to blanket the sky.
Day 5: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower – Into the Alpine Desert
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Elevation: 3,850m to 3,960m via Lava Tower at 4,630m
Today’s trek is a test of your altitude endurance and critical for acclimatization. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower for lunch at 4,630m before descending to Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the iconic Barranco Wall.
This climb-high, sleep-low strategy aids in acclimatization. At camp, enjoy warm towels, hot drinks, and a hearty three-course dinner in your luxury dining tent. The views of the jagged Kibo summit lit by the moonlight are unforgettable.
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp – Conquering the Wall
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m
Begin with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical ascent offering some of the best views on the mountain. Traverse the alpine landscape with views of hanging glaciers and wide valleys.
Arrive at Karanga Camp in the early afternoon and spend the rest of the day relaxing, hydrating, and acclimatizing. Optional short hikes are available for those who want to stay active.
Day 7: Karanga to Barafu Camp – Summit Push Preparation
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m
Today’s climb to Barafu Camp is shorter, leaving you time to rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt. Your crew will brief you on summit protocols, gear layers, and safety.
Retreat to your tent early for dinner and rest. By now, your body is more acclimatized, and you’re mentally and physically prepared for the final ascent.
Day 8: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak, Descent to Mweka Camp
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours | Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) then down to 3,100m
Awaken at midnight for your summit bid. Trek under the stars with your guide up steep switchbacks to Stella Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Take in the sunrise and pose for your iconic summit photo.
After celebrating your achievement, begin your descent to Mweka Camp, where your team will welcome you with cheers, hot soup, and a well-earned rest in your luxury tent.
Day 9: Descent to Mweka Gate – Return to Arusha
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
Enjoy a final breakfast on the mountain before descending through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. After a celebratory lunch and certificate presentation, your driver will transfer you back to Arusha, where a luxurious room, warm shower, and a celebration dinner await.
End of the 9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour in Tanzania
The 9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour in Tanzania cost includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Hiking Kilimanjaro.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Tour guide allowances.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the tour cost excludes; International Air Fare, Visa Fees, Souvenirs, Tips to local guides, personal medical and travel insurance, personal shopping bills and items not listed as included in the cost.