Towering across the wildlife-laden lands of the Amboseli National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-dusted summit is a tantalizing beacon for adventurous souls who long to conquer her lofty heights. The tallest free-standing mountain in the world looms 5,896 metres into a piercingly blue African sky, herds of elephants and zebras walking in its shadow across the dusty savannah below.
To climb Mount Kilimanjaro is a feat few will achieve in their lifetime, and it is undoubtedly a challenge. Yet one which is attainable for trekkers of all experience levels. With the support of an experienced and motivating team, you will be able to take that final, elated step onto the highest point in Africa.
Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro – Suggested Itinerary
The summit might be the goal, but here the old adage rings true – it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. Trekking the 40-kilometre-long Machame Route reveals an ever-changing world. You’ll pass through steaming cloud forests dripping with wild flowers and mosses. The forest gives way to moorlands, where silky heathers sway in the cooler air, before emerging into the glaciated precipices of Kibo’s south face. In this alpine desert, you will reach your final destination and know that every step was worth it.
Day one: You will arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and drive to Arusha, where you will stay for the night.
Day two: Transfer to Machame village, from where you’ll take your first steps on your week-long trek. We ease into our first day with a two- to three-hour walk, with a leisurely stop for a picnic lunch enveloped by nature.
Day three: Today you will walk from Machame Camp to Shira Camp, which is approximately four to five hours of walking.
Day four: A full day of trekking today will take you up to the Lava Tower Pass (5,572 metres) and onto the Barranco Camp.
Day five: You’ll begin the day with a three-hour hike to Barafu Camp (Base camp). Once here, we will enjoy an early dinner filled with excited anticipation before heading out after midnight for the summit.
Day six: The day has arrived, and as the sun rises you will end your six-hour hike as you step foot onto Uhuru Peak, the highest point at 5,890 metres. We’ll take our time to enjoy quiet contemplation and reverence for the beauty of the earth as we gaze down onto the plains of East Africa, before hiking down to Mweka Camp for an evening of celebration.
Day seven: Today you will hike down to Mweka gate where you will sign out and be collected by a 4×4 vehicle and transferred to the hotel for the day. In the evening, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.
Join a K9 Anti-Poaching Unit
Spend time with the African Wildlife Foundation’s K9 anti-poaching unit and discover how they are working to combat poaching in East Africa. Alternatively, enjoy an acclimatisation walk in the Arusha National Park or Mount Meru – the perfect preparation for Kilimanjaro’s altitudes.
Set off on Safari
Revel in your incredible achievement as you get a closer view of East Africa’s wildlife on a safari in the nearby Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park. Or treat your weary body to some pampering in Zanzibar as you lounge on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
To gather more stories on exploration climbs and safaris, speak with Caroline today. Call 1300 767 237 or email caroline@luxurybound.com.au.
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