8 Days Kilimanjaro Western Breach Climbing Itinerary
Conquer Kilimanjaro: 8 Days Western Breach Climbing Itinerary with Lyimo Expeditions
Have you ever dreamed of standing on the Roof of Africa? Imagine tracing the contours of an ancient volcanic landscape, climbing to heights that touch the sky, and soaking in views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Welcome to Kilimanjaro’s Western Breach route, where your adventure will be as breathtaking as the views. At Lyimo Expeditions, we specialize in making these dreams come true.
So, pack your enthusiasm and sense of adventure as we guide you through our 8 Days Kilimanjaro Western Breach Climbing Itinerary. Trust us, this journey will be one you’ll never forget.
Why Choose the Western Breach Route?
The Western Breach is not the most popular route for climbing Kilimanjaro, but that’s one of the reasons why it’s so special. It’s less crowded, more adventurous, and offers a unique experience that other routes simply cannot provide. Think of it as the road less traveled—more challenging, but infinitely more rewarding.
Not to mention, the Western Breach route allows you to get up close and personal with Kilimanjaro’s geological wonders. From the Lava Tower to the Arrow Glacier, this route is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Your adventure begins as you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Our friendly Lyimo Expeditions team will be there to greet you with a warm Tanzanian smile. From here, you’ll be transported to your comfortable hotel in Arusha. After a long journey, take some time to relax and acclimate. Tonight, we’ll have a briefing where you’ll meet your guide and fellow climbers. Get ready—the adventure of a lifetime is about to begin!
Accommodation: Arusha Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Arusha to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Rise and shine! After breakfast, we’ll drive to Londorossi Gate where your park entry formalities will be completed. From here, we’ll take a scenic drive through the Lemosho Glades to the starting point of our trek.
We begin our ascent through lush rainforests, witnessing nature in its purest form. The trail winds its way up to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll spend your first night under the starry African sky.
Elevation: 2,350 meters to 2,820 meters
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll continue our climb. Today’s trek takes us through the heather and moorland zone. Keep your eyes peeled for Kilimanjaro’s unique flora and fauna—giant lobelias and groundsels are just some of the botanical wonders you’ll encounter.
We’ll make our way to Shira 1 Camp, situated on the western edge of the Shira Plateau. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of Kibo Peak, Kilimanjaro’s iconic summit.
Elevation: 2,820 meters to 3,500 meters
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Today’s journey takes us across the Shira Plateau, with its expansive, open landscapes. We’ll trek up to Moir Hut, nestled at the base of the Lent Hills. This part of the climb offers stunning panoramic views and is excellent for acclimatization.
In the afternoon, we have the option of a short acclimatization hike to the top of the Lent Hills before returning to Moir Hut for dinner and overnight stay.
Elevation: 3,500 meters to 4,200 meters
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Accommodation: Moir Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Today is crucial for acclimatization as we ascend to Lava Tower at 4,629 meters. The trek involves a gradual climb through the alpine desert. Lava Tower is a striking volcanic plug that provides incredible photo opportunities.
After a lunch break at Lava Tower, we’ll descend to Barranco Camp, located at 3,950 meters. This descent helps your body adjust to the high altitude, making it easier to reach the summit.
Elevation: 4,200 meters to 3,950 meters via Lava Tower (4,629 meters)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Arrow Glacier Camp
Today’s trek is both challenging and exhilarating. We’ll begin with the steep Barranco Wall, a rocky climb that requires some scrambling but is manageable for most hikers. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic perspective of the stunning landscape below.
After conquering the Barranco Wall, we’ll continue to Arrow Glacier Camp. This high-altitude camp is the staging ground for tomorrow’s Western Breach ascent. Tonight, rest well and prepare for the thrilling climb ahead.
Elevation: 3,950 meters to 4,871 meters
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Arrow Glacier Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Arrow Glacier Camp to Crater Camp
Today is the highlight of your expedition—the Western Breach ascent. This part of the climb is challenging and requires careful attention and energy. But don’t worry; our experienced guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring your safety and motivation.
After several hours of strenuous climbing, we’ll reach the Crater Camp, one of the highest campsites on Kilimanjaro and the closest to the summit. The Crater Camp offers surreal landscapes with its ice fields and the ash pit of the dormant volcano.
Elevation: 4,871 meters to 5,790 meters
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Accommodation: Crater Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
This is it—the final push to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro and the highest point in Africa! We’ll wake up early to begin our ascent, aiming to reach the peak at sunrise. The sight of the sun rising over Africa from the Roof of Africa is something you will remember for the rest of your life.
After soaking in the views and taking your victory photos, we’ll begin our descent. The descent is significantly easier as we make our way down to Mweka Camp, where you’ll spend your last night on the mountain.
Elevation: 5,790 meters to 5,895 meters (Uhuru Peak) to 3,100 meters
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha
Congratulations! You’ve conquered Kilimanjaro. After breakfast, we’ll make a steady descent down to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your summit certificate—proof that you’ve stood on the Roof of Africa.
From Mweka Gate, we’ll drive back to Arusha, where a hot shower and a comfortable bed await. Celebrate your achievement with your fellow climbers and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.
Elevation: 3,100 meters to 1,640 meters
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Arusha Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ready to Conquer Kilimanjaro? Book with Lyimo Expeditions Today!
The Western Breach is more than just a climb; it’s an adventure that will challenge you, inspire you, and reward you with memories that will last a lifetime. At Lyimo Expeditions, we take pride in offering you an unforgettable experience, complete with expert guides, top-notch equipment, and unparalleled service.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards your Kilimanjaro adventure today. Contact us at info@lyimoexpeditionskilimanjaro.com or call us at +255718442953 to book your Tanzania tours and safaris with us. Let’s make your dream of standing on the Roof of Africa a reality!