Western Breach Route Kilimanjaro Climbing – 8 Days
Overview
The Western Breach Route is the most challenging and adventurous path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for its steep, rocky terrain, providing an exhilarating climb to the summit. The route is physically demanding and requires prior experience in high-altitude trekking or climbing. Despite the challenges, the Western Breach rewards climbers with dramatic scenery, breathtaking views, and the opportunity to explore the less-traveled western slopes of Kilimanjaro. The 8-day itinerary is designed to give ample time for acclimatization and increase your chances of success.
Itinerary
Includes
Excludes
Important Information
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
- Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi.
- In the evening, you’ll meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing and equipment check.
- Overnight at the hotel in Moshi.
Day 2: Moshi to Londorossi Gate – Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,250m to 3,610m (7,382ft to 11,843ft)
- Hiking Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Heath
- After breakfast, we drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue driving to the Shira Trailhead. Today’s trek is a relatively easy hike to Shira 1 Camp, where we’ll spend the night, enjoying views of the Shira Plateau.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,610m to 3,850m (11,843ft to 12,631ft)
- Hiking Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- We continue hiking across the expansive Shira Plateau, with stunning views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance. The trail gradually ascends to Shira 2 Camp, where we will acclimatize and rest.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Arrow Glacier Camp
- Elevation: 3,850m to 4,600m (12,631ft to 15,091ft)
- Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Today is a crucial acclimatization day as we climb to Lava Tower at 4,600m. After a rest and lunch at Lava Tower, we continue to the remote and isolated Arrow Glacier Camp, which is located near the foot of the Western Breach. The scenery here is rugged and dramatic as we prepare for the most demanding section of the climb.
Day 5: Arrow Glacier to Crater Camp via Western Breach
- Elevation: 4,600m to 5,750m (15,091ft to 18,865ft)
- Hiking Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert/Glacier
- Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the climb. We ascend the steep and rocky Western Breach, navigating through scree and rocks. This section requires mental and physical endurance, but it offers unforgettable views. After reaching the top of the Breach, we trek to Crater Camp, located near Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the Furtwangler Glacier. Crater Camp is one of the highest camps in the world and provides a surreal experience at extreme altitude.
Day 6: Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 5,750m to 5,895m (18,865ft to 19,341ft), then down to 3,080m (10,105ft)
- Hiking Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10-12 hours
- Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
- In the early morning, we leave Crater Camp for the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The short but steep climb rewards us with panoramic views from the summit. After celebrating at Uhuru Peak, we begin the long descent back down, passing through Barafu Camp for a rest and continuing down to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Drive to Moshi
- Elevation: 3,080m to 1,630m (10,105ft to 5,348ft)
- Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
- The final leg of the trek takes us through the lush rainforest, descending to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you will receive your summit certificates and be transferred back to Moshi for a much-deserved rest at your hotel.
Day 8: Departure
- After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight, or you can extend your stay with an optional safari or beach holiday in Zanzibar.
Includes
- Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Transfers to and from Londorossi Gate.
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
- Professional, experienced guides, porters, and cook.
- Accommodation in tents during the climb.
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trek.
- Drinking water and hot drinks during the climb.
- Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit.
- Salaries for the mountain crew.
Excludes
- International and domestic flights.
- Tanzanian visa fees.
- Tips for the mountain crew (guides, porters, and cook).
- Personal climbing gear (available for rent).
- Travel insurance.
- Additional meals and drinks at the hotel.
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, beverages).
Important Information
- Best Time to Climb: The Western Breach Route can be climbed year-round, but the best months are from January to mid-March and June to October, when weather conditions are more favorable.
- Difficulty Level: Very challenging. Due to the steepness and rocky terrain of the Western Breach, this route is recommended for experienced hikers or those seeking a more adventurous trek.
- Success Rate: Moderate to high, depending on fitness and acclimatization. The 8-day itinerary provides ample time to adjust to the altitude and improve your chances of summiting.