After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rainforest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the valley along a steep, rocky ridge. The route turns west onto a river gorge until we arrive at the Shira Campsite. Here, the temperature begins to drop. Distance: 5.3km (3mi) - 4 to 5 hrs Elevation: 3,021m (9,911ft) to 3,839m (12,595ft) Altitude gained: 818m Habitat: Moorland.

Although you end the day at around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau, we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction toward Kibo Peak. We continue southeast towards the Lava Tower, also called the “Shark’s Tooth” at an elevation of 4,650m (15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we come to a second junction which leads to the Arrow Glacier. We then continue to descend for our overnight at Barranco Camp. Distance: 10.75km (6mi) - 5 to 6 hrs Elevation: 3,839m (12,595ft) to 3,986m (13,077ft) Altitude gained: 147m Habitat: Semi-desert.

After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease. Our overnight will be at Karanga Camp. Distance: 5.2km (3mi) - 3 to 4 hrs Elevation: 3,986m (13,077ft) to 4,034m (13,235ft) Altitude gained: 48m Habitat: Alpine desert.

Today, we continue up toward Barafu Camp. Once reached, you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles. We'll have an early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight will be at Barafu Camp. Distance: 3.3km (2mi) - 3 to 4 hrs Elevation: 4,034m (13,235ft) to 4,662m (15,295ft) Altitude gained: 628m Habitat: Alpine desert.

You will wake up at midnight, and after some tea and biscuits, you shuffle off into the night. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree toward Stella Point. This 6-hour walk to Stella Point is for many climbers, mentally and physically, the most challenging on the route. At Stella Point (5,685m) you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. From Stella Point, you will normally encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak. The time you will spend on the summit will depend on the weather conditions. Do not stop here for too long, as it will be extremely difficult to start again due to cold and fatigue. Enjoy your accomplishment and cherish this day to remember for the rest of your life. The walk back to Barafu from the summit takes about 3 hours. You will have a well-earned but short rest and collect the rest of your gear before heading down to Mweka Camp (3,100m).

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and time bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. The weather is drastically warmer here and the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so we highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles. A vehicle will wait at the gate and drive you back to your hotel for a quick stop in Moshi (about 30 minutes). We will transfer you to the airport for your travel back home. Enjoy a long overdue hot shower and celebrations! END OF TOUR