Day 2:
Our trek takes us to G&M One, a beautiful valley just outside the Shira Crater, for lunch. We will then cross the Shira Caldera, a high altitude desert plateau that is rarely visited by man. Shira is the third of Kilimanjaros volcanic cones. It is filled by lava flow from Kibo and its rim has been destroyed by volcanic activity and erosion. From here we usually get our first up close glimpse of Kibo and the stunning glaciers of the Western Breach.
Day 3 :
We start the morning with an early acclimatizing trek to Shira Cathedral (12,200 ft). The top of the ridge provides stunning views across the Shira Plateau. We then continue our trek across the Shira Plateau via Simba Camp and onto our camp which will be either at G&M Two or at the Shira Hut.
Day 4 :
In the morning we cross part of the plateau heading due north. After lunch at our campsite, we hike up onto the Lent Hills (15,400 ft). Accommodation: Moir Hut
Day 5 :
Today we leave the Moorland Plateau behind. Hiking along the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach, we will stop for lunch near the Lava Tower. We will then descend to the bottom of the Barranco Valley to enjoy the camp sheltered by the towering cliffs.
Day 6 :
An early morning climb up Barranco Wall (14,000 ft) is known for magnificent views of Mt. Meru and the plains below. We then continue across the ridges and valleys to the Karanga Valley Camp where we will enjoy a relaxing afternoon. An optional trek just below the glaciers provides additional acclimatization and practice scree walking.
Day 7 :
Today we take the Traverse Route that takes up the Barafu Ridge. We move quite slowly due to the difficulty of the Route, complicated by crosswinds and altitude. An optional trek a few hundred feet higher will help to optimize acclimatization. We dine and retire early in order to get some rest before the summit attempt.
