Wake up at around 2300hrs, have a simple breakfast, gear up and start the journey to the summit in the dark. This is the most challenging part in our bodies both mentally and physically. Walk at a pace of your own step after the other not competing with other hikers or teammates. We say“ Pole Pole” in Swhahili language meaning slow but sure.
While at Stella point [18,600ft], you will be rewarded by the epic sunrise if the weather is clear. Then continue in about an hour along the crater rim to the summit. At this point, Uhuru peak [5,895 M /19,340 ft], you are now on the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro and continent of Africa.
Spend a short time at the summit taking photos and start descending down to Barafu Camp for lunch and a rest. Afterwards then continue trekking down to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Enjoy the last dinner on the mountain and a well earned sleep.
Hiking ascent distance from Barafu to Summit; 5 km in 6-7 hours.
Hiking descent distance from summit to Mweka; 12 km 6 hours. Altitude gain; 1,295m.
Altitude drop; 2,795m.