Londorossi Gate to MtiMkubwa
We'll depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate (which takes about 4 hours) where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at the trailhead, we will begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first campsite.
Elevation: 7,742ft to 9,498ft
Distance: 6km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest.
ACCOMMODATION: BUDGET CAMPING
MtiMkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
We will continue on the trail leading out of the rainforest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we'll reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we will catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.
Elevation: 9,498ft to 11,500ft
Distance: 8km/ 5miles
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heath.
ACCOMMODATION: BUDGET CAMPING
We will explore the Shira Plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. Then we will divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site at the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
Elevation: 11,500ft to 13,800ft
Distance: 11km/ 7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath.
ACCOMMODATION: BUDGET CAMPING
We will begin the day climbing up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower—a 300ft tall volcanic rock formation. We'll descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000ft. Although you'll begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at a higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
ACCOMMODATION: BUDGET CAMPING
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
We'll begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we will climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall, we'll cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Elevation: 13,044ft to 13,106ft
Distance: 5km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert.
ACCOMMODATION: BUDGET CAMPING