Mount Kilimanjaro is more than just a physical challenge. A Kilimanjaro Hike is an unforgettable trip through five ecological zones and dramatic landscapes. At the end, the 5,895-meter (19,341-foot) summit is a test of your will. But what does every day on the mountain look like?
This guide will show you a normal day-by-day Kilimanjaro itinerary. We’ll talk about what to expect in terms of weather, path, and elevation, and how to get ready for each stage. The schedule may be a little different depending on the path you choose, but this is a general idea based on the popular 7-day Machame path, which is one of the best for seeing beautiful scenery and getting used to the altitude.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Moshi or Arusha
- Activity: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Where You Stay: Hotel in Moshi or Arusha
- Altitude: ~900m (2,953 ft)
Arrive in Tanzania, and be taken to your hotel. There, you’ll meet your hiking guides for a briefing before the climb. Before your trip, you should check your gear, pack last-minute, and get a good night’s sleep.
Pro Tip: Stay hydrated from the moment you land and get a full night’s rest.
Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Trek Begins
- Distance: 10–11 km (6–7 miles)
- Trek Time: 5–7 hours
- Starting Altitude: 1,800m (5,905 ft)
- Ending Altitude: 3,000m (9,840 ft)
- Terrain: Dense rainforest
The adventure starts! Once you’ve signed up at the park entrance, you’ll walk through a lush jungle and look for colobus monkeys and rare birds along the way. Gaiters and hiking poles are helpful because the trail is wet and muddy.
Overnight at Machame Camp
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Distance: 5–6 km (3–4 miles)
- Trek Time: 4–6 hours
- Starting Altitude: 3,000m (9,840 ft)
- Ending Altitude: 3,840m (12,600 ft)
- Terrain: Moorland, rocky ridges
The trail goes up into the heather and moorland zone, leaving the jungle behind. You’ll get your first beautiful views of Kilimanjaro’s top glaciers, and the scenery will get more dramatic. The air is getting thinner, so go slowly.
Overnight at Shira Camp
Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Acclimatization Day
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Trek Time: 6–8 hours
- Starting Altitude: 3,840m (12,600 ft)
- High Point: 4,630m (15,190 ft) – Lava Tower
- Ending Altitude: 3,960m (13,000 ft)
- Terrain: Alpine desert
It’s important to get used to the altitude today. Before going down to Barranco Camp, you’ll go up high to Lava Tower. This “climb high, sleep low” method helps your body get used to the higher elevation, which lowers your risk of getting AMS.
Pro Tip: Drink at least 3–4 liters of water today.
Overnight at Barranco Camp, with a jaw-dropping view of the Barranco Wall.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The Barranco Wall Challenge
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Trek Time: 4–5 hours
- Starting Altitude: 3,960m (13,000 ft)
- Ending Altitude: 4,035m (13,200 ft)
- Terrain: Rocky scramble, alpine desert
The first part of today is a scramble up the famous Barranco Wall, which is an exciting and beautiful steep but not difficult climb. After the climb, the road goes up into the mountains, where you can see the southern glacier in a beautiful way.
Overnight at Karanga Camp — a short day, but crucial for recovery.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Base Camp Prep
- Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Trek Time: 3–4 hours
- Starting Altitude: 4,035m (13,200 ft)
- Ending Altitude: 4,640m (15,223 ft)
- Terrain: Steep, rocky alpine desert
Barafu is the base camp for Kilimanjaro. You can get there on this short but steep walk. You’ll get some rest, eat dinner early, and get your stuff ready for summit night. You should go to bed early because your peak push starts before midnight.
Pro Tip: Keep your water bottles upside down so they don’t freeze!
Overnight at Barafu Camp (rest as much as possible).
Day 7: Barafu to Summit (Uhuru Peak), then Down to Mweka Camp
Summit Day
- Distance: 15–17 km (9–11 miles)
- Trek Time: 12–15+ hours
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m (19,341 ft)
- Ending Altitude: 3,100m (10,170 ft)
This is the hardest and best day of the week. You’ll start your cold and dark midnight push to the top of Uhuru Peak, also known as the “Roof of Africa.” You’ll reach Stella Point at sunrise and then keep going to Uhuru Peak.
After having fun and taking pictures at the top, you’ll go all the way down to Mweka Camp to take a well-deserved break.
Pro Tip: Summit night is a mental battle. Keep moving, stay positive, and trust your guide.
Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Descent & Celebration
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Trek Time: 3–4 hours
- Starting Altitude: 3,100m (10,170 ft)
- Ending Altitude: 1,800m (5,905 ft)
As they make their last descent through the jungle, they are filled with happiness, relief, and the smell of fresh air. When you get to the gate, you’ll get your summit award and be taken back to your hotel for a well-earned shower and a celebratory dinner.
What to Expect Daily on Kilimanjaro
- Early wake-ups: Usually between 6:00–7:00 am
- Hot meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by camp chefs
- Tea time: Afternoon tea with snacks at camp
- Guided support: Porters, guides, and cooks help with everything
- Altitude checks: Daily health monitoring by your head guide
- Scenic variety: Each day brings new landscapes and challenges
Climbing Kilimanjaro will change your life, and knowing what to expect each day will help you get ready mentally and physically. Knowing how the trek goes will help you make smart plans and climb strong, no matter what length of time you choose—6 days, 7 days, or 8 days or more.
Are you ready to reach your top goal? Next, let’s start making plans for your route, gear, and training!
