From
9 Days
Trekking
Airport
The Kilimanjaro Crater Route is a lesser-known and more adventurous trek that takes you into the heart of Kilimanjaro, allowing for spectacular views of the summit and the unique crater landscape.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where our guides will discuss essential details about the trek, conduct a gear check, and answer any questions. It’s a day to relax and prepare for the adventure.
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate (1,800m/5,906ft) for registration. Begin your trek through lush rainforest, covering 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) over 5 to 7 hours to Machame Camp (3,000m/9,843ft). Experience the rich biodiversity of the forest along the way.
The day begins with a steeper climb, as you leave the rainforest and enter the heather and moorland zone. Over the next 5 kilometers (3.1 miles), you’ll ascend to 3,840 meters (12,600ft), with Kibo Peak emerging into view as you reach Shira Camp. This 4 to 6-hour trek is shorter but involves steady elevation gain, offering spectacular vistas.
Today, trek 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over 6 to 7 hours to Barranco Camp (3,960m/12,992ft). You will traverse the Shira Plateau and enjoy spectacular views before descending slightly into the Barranco Valley.
Spend a day acclimatizing at Barranco Camp. You can hike to the top of Barranco Wall, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the summit. This day is crucial for proper acclimatization.
After breakfast, ascend the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding climb. Trek 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) over 4 to 5 hours to Karanga Camp (4,035m/13,238ft). Enjoy panoramic views as you navigate through the alpine desert.
Trek 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) over 3 to 4 hours to Barafu Camp (4,640m/15,223ft). This section provides stunning views of Kibo and the surrounding landscape. Arrive at Barafu, where you can rest and prepare for the summit push.
Begin your summit ascent around midnight. Trek to Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft) and then to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Crater Camp (5,730m/18,799ft). This challenging day covers about 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) over 12 to 15 hours.
Spend the morning exploring the unique landscape of the crater. Enjoy the stunning views and take photos. In the afternoon, begin your descent back to Barafu Camp, covering approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) over 5 to 6 hours.
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, covering 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over 3 to 4 hours. At the gate, collect your summit certificate before returning to Arusha for a celebration dinner.
After a restful night, you’ll transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, carrying unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.