9 Days Western Breach

A Majestic Ascent to Kilimanjaro's Summit

Trek Overview

The Western Breach route offers captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities, and minimal climber traffic, making it one of the best Kilimanjaro routes. It’s also a personal favorite for reaching the Roof of Africa.

After a 3-hour drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate, you'll begin your journey on the western slope of Mount Kilimanjaro. From there, the trail leads to the world-famous Shira Plateau, where you'll embark on an adventure through diverse climate zones, ranging from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, with the Lemosho route boasting the highest success rate among all Kilimanjaro routes.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. After check-in, your guide will brief you about the trek and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 1: Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)

Distance: 7 km

Approximate Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll drive to Lemosho Gate (2,100m) for approximately two hours. You'll begin trekking through the lush rainforest after registration and preparation by the guides and porters. The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where your tent will be set up with your personal belongings inside. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,600m)

Distance: 7 km

Approximate Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Rainforest/Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The trek begins with a climb across a grassy moorland plateau dotted with volcanic rock formations. Some steep sections offer stunning views of Kibo and the Shira Plateau. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3,600m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m)

Distance: 8 km

Approximate Time: 5 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is one of the shorter trekking days. The trail is less steep, and you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the northern ice fields and Kibo. After arriving at Shira 2 Camp, you’ll have a hot lunch, followed by an acclimatization walk in the afternoon. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3,900m) to Lava Tower Camp (4,600m)

Distance: 5 km

Approximate Time: 7 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving the moorlands behind, you’ll ascend into the alpine desert, reaching Lava Tower Camp. This area offers incredible photo opportunities of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall. Enjoy a memorable sunset before dinner and an overnight stay at Lava Tower Camp.

Day 5: Lava Tower Camp (4,600m) to Arrow Glacier Camp (4,900m)

Distance: 1 km

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a short but steep hike to Arrow Glacier Camp, at the foot of the Hein Glacier. Overnight at Arrow Glacier Camp.

Day 6: Arrow Glacier Camp – Acclimatization Day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is dedicated to acclimatization. You’ll take a short hike, returning to camp for relaxation.

Day 7: Arrow Glacier Camp (4,900m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Crater Camp (5,790m)

Distance: 8 km

Approximate Time: 6 hours

Habitat: Glacier Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

An early start around 5:00 am marks the beginning of your summit push. After reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, you’ll descend slightly to Crater Camp. Set in soft sands near the iconic Furtwängler Glacier, Crater Camp offers an extraordinary experience for adventurous climbers. Overnight at Crater Camp.

Day 8: Crater Camp (5,790m) to Millennium Camp (3,950m)

Distance: 13 km

Approximate Time: 3 hours

Habitat: Glacier/Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, you’ll begin your descent. The route passes Stella Point and Barafu Camp before heading to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest. Overnight at Millennium Camp.

Day 9: Millennium Camp (3,950m) to Mweka Gate (1,630m)

Distance: 14 km

Approximate Time: 5 hours

Habitat: Montane Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

The final leg of your journey takes you through the lush rainforest from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll sign out with park authorities and receive your official climbing certificate. Climbers who reached Gilman’s Point receive a green certificate, while those who summited Uhuru Peak earn a gold certificate.

Package Pricing

1 Person 2 - 4 People 5 - 9 People 10+ People
$2,750 Per Person
$2,650 Per Person
$2,550 Per Person
$2,450 Per Person

What's Included:

  • Accommodation at The Mountain Bikes House in Moshi
  • Transportation to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Experienced mountain guide
  • National park fees
  • All meals during the trek
  • Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat)
  • Porterage for personal gear
  • First-aid kit
  • Treated drinking water

What's Not Included:

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Personal items (e.g., clothing, toiletries)
  • Travel insurance

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