Following breakfast, our journey continues amidst an evolving landscape as the trail gradually ascends, transitioning into the vast expanses of the giant heather moorland zone. Navigating across several streams, we ascend the Shira Ridge, gradually descending towards Shira 1 camp nestled amidst the picturesque Shira Plateau. The day's trek affords ample opportunities to soak in the scenic splendor while acclimatizing to the increasing altitude.

Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3500m/11,500ft Distance: 8km/5mi Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Moorland Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Another day of exploration beckons as we venture forth after breakfast. A tranquil hike across the plateau unveils the serene Shira 2 camp, nestled amidst moorland meadows by a meandering stream. This day presents opportunities for varied hikes on the Plateau, providing an excellent opportunity for acclimatization amidst breathtaking surroundings.

• Elevation: 3500m/11,500ft to 3850m/12,600ft
• Distance: 8km/5mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today marks a pivotal stage of our expedition, as we embark on a long trek towards the east. Our path leads us through the captivating 'Garden of the Senecios' before transitioning into the high alpine desert zone. Ascending towards Lava Tower, an iconic landmark standing at 4,600 meters, we pause for a well-deserved lunch amidst breathtaking scenery. Afterward, we join the Northern Circuit, descending to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This day's journey offers a crucial experience of high altitude followed by a night's rest at a lower elevation, facilitating acclimatization.

• Elevation: 3850m/11,500ft to 4200m/13780ft
• Distance: 14km/8mi
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Prepare for an exhilarating day of trekking as we ascend out of the picturesque Moir Valley. Opt for an optional hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters for panoramic views before rejoining the Northern Circuit trail. Our route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting the northern slopes of Kibo until we reach Buffalo Camp, nestled amidst the high alpine terrain.

• Elevation: 4200m/13,780ft to 4020m/13,188ft
• Distance: 12km/7mi
• Walking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: High Alpine
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our day begins with a climb up the Buffalo ridge, offering captivating vistas, before descending into Porfu Camp for a refreshing lunch break. Continuing eastward around the northern slopes, we make our way to Rongai Third Cave. With a shorter trek today, you'll find yourself well-adjusted to the altitude, arriving at the Third Cave in the mid-afternoon.

• Elevation: 4020m/13,188ft to 3800m/12,467ft
• Distance: 8km/5mi
• Climbing Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: High Alpine
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut

Today's journey involves a steady ascent up and over the Saddle, nestled between the majestic peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Trekkers then proceed southwestward, ascending to School Hut. Upon reaching School Hut, a hearty early dinner awaits before settling in for rest ahead of our midnight summit bid. Remember to prepare your gear, including warm clothing, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera, before retiring for the night.

• Elevation: 3800m/12,467ft to 4800m/15,748ft
• Distance: 15km/8mi
• Climbing Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Prepared for an early start, we wake around 11:30 PM to hot tea and biscuits before commencing our ascent up the steep slopes of Kibo under the cloak of darkness. Our first milestone is Hans Meyer Cave, where a brief break is welcomed. As we ascend, the slope gradually steepens until we reach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), approximately 5-6 hours from School Hut.

Take a moment to relish the approaching dawn and the breathtaking panorama extending to Mawenzi Peak. However, keep in mind that the summit of Uhuru Peak still beckons, necessitating perseverance and fortitude. Continuing westward along the crater rim, we anticipate reaching the summit at or just after sunrise.

After capturing the awe-inspiring views and surrounding glaciers, we retrace our steps along the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters). From here, our descent leads southward down the scree-laden slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters).

Following a brief respite, we resume our descent to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters), where we spend our final night on the mountain. Today's trek spans 14-16 hours, underscoring the importance of pacing oneself, maintaining hydration, and sustaining blood sugar levels.

• Elevation: 4800m/15,748ft to 5895m/19,340ft
• Descend to 3950m/12,959ft
• Distance: 6km/3.5mi up / 11km/6mi down
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
• Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Following breakfast, we commence our descent towards the Mweka Park Gate to receive our summit certificates. As we descend to lower elevations, we may encounter wet and muddy terrain. Gaiters and trekking poles prove invaluable for navigating such conditions. Light attire such as shorts and t-shirts may suffice, although it's wise to keep rain gear and warmer clothing within reach.

Upon reaching the Mweka Gate, our awaiting Monkey Adventures vehicle will transport us back to our hotel in Moshi, approximately a 60-minute drive.

• Elevation: 3950m/12,959ft to 1680m/5500ft
• Distance: 10km/6mi
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: Breakfast