12 days trip · 10 days on the mountain

12 Days Kilimanjaro Three Peaks Climb

Ahsante Tours is the #1 leading local tour operator for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, trusted by most agents. So why not book with us and experience the adventure of a lifetime?

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Overview

Most people climb Kilimanjaro for one summit. Very few cross the mountain to understand it.

The Kilimanjaro Three Peaks Climb is not just about reaching Uhuru Peak. It is about walking the full geological and human story of the mountain by standing on all three of its volcanic summits: Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo. Each peak has a different character, a different history, and a different lesson.

This climb is designed for curious, strong hikers who want depth, not just altitude.

Shira Peak (The Forgotten Giant)

Shira is the oldest of Kilimanjaro's three volcanoes. Over 2 million years ago it was the highest point on the mountain. Eruptions weakened its structure and the cone collapsed, leaving the Shira Plateau, a wide high-altitude caldera on the western side of Kilimanjaro. Local Chagga communities used the plateau for seasonal grazing, and Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller crossed it in the late 1800s while scouting routes to the summit. Shira teaches patience and perspective.

Mawenzi Peak (The Warrior)

Mawenzi is the second-highest peak on Kilimanjaro. It formed after Shira collapsed, with steep ridges, deep gullies and sharp spires, and has no permanent ice cap. For centuries it was considered unclimbable; the first successful ascent came in 1912, and only a handful of climbers reach its true summit each year. Mawenzi teaches humility and courage.

Kibo Peak (The Crown)

Kibo is the youngest and highest of the three peaks. Its summit, Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, sits on the rim of a volcanic crater. Kibo is dormant, not extinct. In 1889 Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller became the first recorded climbers to reach the summit, later named Uhuru Peak, meaning "freedom", after Tanzania's independence in 1961. Kibo teaches endurance and completion.

Difficulty Very challenging, includes technical rock climbing on Mawenzi

Best months January to March and June to October

Start point Lemosho Gate

Descent Mweka Gate

Success rate on this route

Why the Three Peaks Matter

Climbing Kilimanjaro via a single route shows you one face of the mountain. Climbing Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo shows you its full identity: the wide, ancient calm of Shira, the technical challenge of Mawenzi, and the altitude and ice of Kibo. This journey turns Kilimanjaro from a checklist climb into a true expedition.

3 Volcanic summits

20K+ Successful summits in over 20 years

Why it is that high

Award-winning We're award-winning Kilimanjaro tour operators.

Luxury Luxury camping, food, tent, toilets and more

20K+ Successful summits Over 20K successful summits in over 20 years

Get help Get help choosing the best route for your team

Route map

Three Peaks Route Map

Camps and altitude profile

Lemosho Gate2,100 m

Mti Mkubwa Camp2,650 m

Shira 1 Camp3,500 m

Shira Peak3,962 m

Moir Hut4,200 m

Pofu Camp4,030 m

Third Cave Camp3,900 m

Mawenzi Tarn Camp4,330 m

Mawenzi Peak5,149 m

Kibo Hut4,700 m

Uhuru Peak5,895 m

Millennium Camp3,820 m

Mweka Gate1,640 m

Our experience on this route

Who This Climb Is For

This experience is ideal for strong hikers looking for a deeper Kilimanjaro experience, repeat Kilimanjaro climbers who want something rare, adventurous travelers who value story, geology, and solitude, and those who want to stand where very few ever do. This is not a rushed summit push. It is a thoughtful crossing of the mountain.

Day by day

12 Days Kilimanjaro Three Peaks Climb

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Day 1

Arrival in Kilimanjaro – Transfer to Moshi

On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you are met by the Ahsante Tours team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, you meet your lead guide for a full trek briefing. The route is explained in detail, including safety procedures, acclimatization strategy, and the technical requirements for the Mawenzi climb. A thorough gear check follows, with the option to hire any missing equipment locally. You spend the night in Moshi before the expedition begins.

Altitude890 m

Day 2

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, you drive to Lemosho Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro to complete park formalities. The trek begins gently through montane rainforest, beneath tall trees draped in moss, with the sounds of birds and monkeys overhead. This first walking day is intentionally short. By early afternoon, you arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp, meaning "Big Tree Camp", set deep within the forest.

Altitude2,650 m

Walking3–4 hours

Distance~7 km

HabitatRainforest

Day 3

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

The trail climbs steadily as the forest thins and opens into heath and moorland, marking your approach to the ancient Shira volcano. By the time you reach Shira 1 Camp, the landscape is open with long horizons. The afternoon is for rest and acclimatization. Kibo may appear in the distance for the first time.

Altitude3,500 m

Walking5–6 hours

Distance~8 km

HabitatHeath and moorland

Day 4

Shira 1 Camp to Shira Peak Cathedral and on to Moir Hut

Today brings your first summit. You walk across the Shira Plateau toward Shira Peak (3,962m), an eroded remnant of what was once the highest volcano on the mountain. The ascent is gradual and non-technical. After time on the summit area, the route traverses the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The terrain becomes more rugged and less traveled. You continue to Moir Hut, beneath the slopes of Mawenzi.

Altitude4,200 m

Walking6–7 hours

Distance~11 km

HabitatShira Plateau

Day 5

Moir Hut to Pofu Camp

A quiet day along the rarely used Northern Circuit. The trail moves through alpine desert, with wide views toward Kenya on clear days. The moderate altitude change makes this a good acclimatization day. Pofu Camp sits in an open setting beneath Kibo's northern slopes.

Altitude4,030 m

Walking5–7 hours

Distance9.2 km / 5.8 mi

HabitatAlpine desert

Day 6

Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp

Today is intentionally shorter, to support recovery and acclimatization. The route continues across rolling terrain beneath the northern face of Kibo, with minimal elevation gain. Arriving early at Third Cave Camp gives you time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the more demanding days ahead.

Altitude3,900 m

Walking5–7 hours

Distance8 km / 5 mi

HabitatAlpine desert

Day 7

Third Cave Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

The trail turns east, and Mawenzi's jagged spires begin to dominate the landscape. You climb gradually to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, set beside a small alpine tarn beneath the peak and surrounded by rock walls and ridges. The afternoon is for rest and final preparation: guides review the plan and equipment is checked.

Altitude4,330 m

Walking4–5 hours

Distance~6 km

HabitatAlpine desert

Day 8

Mawenzi Summit Attempt and Return to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

The most demanding stage of the journey. You begin early by headlamp, ascending steep rock and exposed sections. The climb involves scrambling and technical rock climbing, supported by ropes, helmets, harnesses, and fixed protection where required. Your guides manage rope systems and movement throughout. Reaching the summit of Mawenzi Peak places you among a very small group of Kilimanjaro climbers, with a view across the Saddle to Kibo. You then descend carefully back to Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

Altitude5,149 m

Walking8–12 hours

Distance8 km

HabitatRock and scree

Day 9

Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

You cross the Saddle, the wide, barren plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo, covered in volcanic gravel. The walk is steady rather than steep, but the altitude makes it demanding. By early afternoon, you arrive at Kibo Hut at the base of the final ascent. An early dinner is followed by rest before a midnight start.

Altitude4,700 m

Walking5–6 hours

Distance~9 km

HabitatThe Saddle, alpine desert

Day 10

Summit Kibo (Uhuru Peak) and Descend to Millennium Camp

Around midnight, you begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak on a zigzag trail through scree. As dawn approaches, you reach Stella Point on the crater rim. The final traverse leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos, you descend past Barafu and continue down to Millennium Camp (3,820m).

Altitude5,895 m

Walking12–15 hours

Distance11–12 km

HabitatArctic summit

Day 11

Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Moshi

The final descent takes you through heath and back into rainforest. At Mweka Gate, you receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to the mountain crew. A vehicle takes you back to Moshi for a hot shower, a proper meal, and a celebration.

Altitude1,640 m

Walking4–5 hours

Distance13 km

HabitatHeath and rainforest

Day 12

Departure from Kilimanjaro

The day is left free to rest and relax after a long, challenging days of trekking. You can choose to extend for Zanzibar Beach Experiences or Wildlife Safari in Near National Park Like Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara National Park, or if your schedule is not allowing you for safari Extension, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport to fly home.

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Price per person, by group size

Contact us for Three Peaks Climb prices by group size.

Group size Per person Note

Private climb, per person On request

Private climb prices, total cost per person.

What is and is not included

Read the short list, or open each line for the detail.

Included

Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
3 Season Mountain tents (double occupancy)
Sleeping Bag
3-inch-thick foam Sleeping Mat/Pad
Spacious mess tent with all tables and chairs for rest and dining
Transportation to & from the mountain gate
Transportation to and from the airport
Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
Three meals daily while on the mountain
Katadyn filtered water throughout the trek
Hotel lodging the night before and the night after the climb
Fair wages for the mountain crew
Tree donation in support of our environmental conservation projects
Supplemental Oxygen tanks & Pulse Oximeter
1 portable flush toilet with a toilet tent
Free of charge use of a storage room and a safe room at the lodge
Celebration dinner at the hotel after the trek

Not included

International and Domestic Flights
Visa
Tips to mountain crew
Single supplement
Rental Gears
Laundry Services
Travel Insurance
1 portable flush toilet with a toilet tent for group sizes less than 4 people

Downloads

Kit lists and trip documents

Free Kilimanjaro Packing List with gear necessary for the hike and recommendations from Ahsante Tours Team

PDF Free Kilimanjaro Kit Checklist Free Kilimanjaro Packing List with gear necessary for the hike and recommendations from Ahsante Tours Team

Reviews from this route

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 212 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Priya S 
 
 
 
 Verified A Memorable Safari - Thanks to the Wonderful Team at Ahsante Tours
We had a fantastic experience with Ahsante Tours on our Tanzania safari. Everything was well organized, and the trip went smoothly from beginning to end. Holyfield Edwin, our main contact, deserves special recognition. He was warm, professional, responsive, and incredibly helpful, patiently answering all our questions both before the trip and while we were on safari. When I accidentally left my Kindle at Rafiki Retreat in Arusha, he went out of his way to arrange for it to be retrieved and sent to Kigali, our final destination. That kind of personal attention really stood out. Our guide and driver for nine days, Aston, was equally outstanding. He worked incredibly hard every day, was always patient and professional, and made us feel safe on the road. His knowledge of wildlife and ability to spot animals were impressive—we saw the Big Five multiple times! Most of all, we loved his genuine enthusiasm. He seemed just as excited about each sighting as we were, which made the experience even more enjoyable. He was also considerate and unobtrusive, allowing us to take in each moment at our own pace. The accommodations were generally three-star, and we enjoyed most of the bush camps and hotels along the way. Ahsante also coordinated our Rwanda extension to see the gorillas through Mist Safari, which was another wonderful experience. Brian K., our contact in Rwanda, was super responsive and easy to communicate with. All in all, we were very happy with Ahsante Tours. The team was reliable, thoughtful, and professional, and the personal touches made a real difference. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone planning a Tanzania safari, especially if you value good communication, a knowledgeable guide, and a team that genuinely cares about your experience. Thank you, Ahsante Tours, for a trip filled with wonderful experiences and memories we will cherish for years to come!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sam S 
 
 
 
 Verified Trip of a lifetime!
I went with Ahsante Tours via Explore on a trip to climb Kilimanjaro (Lemosho route) followed by safaris in Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. All the guides were very friendly and nice to talk to - I got along with all of them very well. For the Kilimanjaro climb, I was consistently impressed by how above and beyond all the staff went to make sure we had everything and we were comfortable. The level of care, service and concern for our health and safety was unmatched. For the safaris, our guide was very knowledgeable with what everything was and was amazing at spotting even the smallest animals in secretive hiding spots. I think this was the best trip of my life and I will always remember it incredibly fondly!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sophie N 
 
 
 
 Verified Incredible
An incredible experience with the best team of guides and porters we could have asked for. They made it fun, interesting and ensured we were safe and happy at all times. I cannot thank Mussa, Joshua , Michael , Juma , Uhuru and the rest of the team enough for the trip of a lifetime. Thank you 🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Blair T 
 
 
 
 Verified 10/10 review for a great company
Uk - Scotland based review. This is my second time using Ahsante tours and they can’t be faulted. I booked Kilimanjaro in 2025 with them and they were brilliant from the first initial contact. They planned out the trip according to my dates etc and were in communication throughout until I arrived. I used them again this year to book a safari trip for my partners birthday. Again, from initial contact their communication was excellent. I provided them with how I’d like my trip to look and executed it to perfection. We stayed with a Masai tribe before starting safari trip and this was a 10/10 experience. Would recommend. We thereafter visited Tarangire, Lake Manyara and then Serengeti for safari game drives. An experience that will last a life time that was made possible by using Ashante Tours. All accommodation we stayed in was clean, staff all friendly, food was good, all packed lunches provided for game drives and they were good as well. We had a safari guide Godwin, who was with us for 6 days. He was so friendly, so knowledgeable and just an overall really nice guy. Couldn’t have picked a better guide myself. The Weru Weru lodges, where you stay when booking with Ahsante is clean, good food and staff very friendly (both times). Would recommend anyone looking to book a trip to climb Kilimanjaro or safaris to book through Ahsante tours. Both times zero complaints. If I was to return to Tanzania I will use again. Ahsante to all - Ahsante Tour staff 👏🏻
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ukiyo 
 
 
 
 Verified Perfect!
Professional, flexible, and friendly team. We spent 17 days with this company. From Kili to Safaris, everything was organized and managed to a perfection. Big thanks to Daniel, Benson and Derick.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Shabana S 
 
 
 
 Verified They didn’t just get us to the summit — they got us through Kilimanjaro
I don’t think you fully understand the importance of choosing the right Kilimanjaro team until you are actually on that mountain. We climbed with Ahsante Tours in September 2026, and there are moments from those days that I will genuinely never forget. Kilimanjaro tests you in ways that go far beyond physical fitness. There are long days, altitude, exhaustion, freezing temperatures, moments of complete awe and moments when your mind and body simply do not want to cooperate anymore. And during those moments, the people around you become incredibly important. Our Ahsante team were exceptional. The guides knew when to push us, when to slow us down, when we needed encouragement and when we simply needed someone beside us. The porters were absolute heroes. Watching how hard this team works while still greeting us with warmth, humour and encouragement every day gave me an entirely new level of respect for what goes into getting someone up Kilimanjaro. Summit night is where I understood it most. By that point, this wasn’t a holiday or even just a trek anymore. It was mental, physical and emotional. There were moments when reaching Uhuru Peak felt impossibly far away, but our team never stopped believing that we could get there. And we did. I stood at Uhuru Peak knowing that although my legs had carried me there, I absolutely had not got there alone. The organisation, food, camps and logistics were all handled extremely well, but what separates a good Kilimanjaro company from an unforgettable one is the people. These are the people who see you exhausted, cold, emotional and completely stripped of your usual comforts — and somehow keep you moving forward. To everyone at Ahsante who carried, cooked, guided, encouraged, laughed with us and quite literally walked this journey with us: asante sana. Kilimanjaro gave me one of the hardest and most extraordinary experiences of my life, and I will always be grateful that Ahsante Tours was part of it. Five stars, without hesitation. ❤️
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Heena K 
 
 
 
 Verified Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro
My Kilimanjaro Experience with Ahsante Tours 🏔️ Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro was something I wanted to do for the adventure, but the experience turned out to mean so much more than I expected. From the beginning, Ahsante Tours made the process smooth and well organised. The communication before the climb, the arrangements, and the preparation all gave me confidence going into the journey. The climb itself was challenging—physically. But having a supportive and experienced team around me made a huge difference. The guides were encouraging throughout the entire climb, constantly checking on us, reminding us to take it *pole pole*, and making sure we were comfortable and safe. The porters were equally incredible. Seeing how much they carried and how hard they worked every day gave me an entirely different appreciation for the people behind the climb. Summit night was by far the toughest part. It was cold, dark, exhausting and mentally challenging, but every step brought me closer to the goal. Finally reaching Uhuru Peak at **5,895 metres** was a feeling I honestly cannot put into words. After all the preparation, tiredness, doubts and long days, standing at the summit and knowing **I DID IT** was unforgettable. But what I loved most about this experience is that Kilimanjaro taught me things beyond climbing a mountain. It taught me to appreciate my comfort at home, to trust my body, to keep moving at my own pace, and to understand that sometimes you are capable of much more than you think. I am genuinely grateful to the entire Ahsante Tours team for being part of such an important experience for me. From the first step to the final descent, their support contributed greatly to making this journey memorable. Thank you, Ahsante Tours, for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Duncan 
 
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable trip (in a good way)
I joined an Ahsante group climbing the Kilimanjaro Machame route. Ascending isn’t easy, but the Ahsante team worked hard to maximise the chances of a successful ascent. Out of our group, nearly all managed to get to the top (something that isn’t usual). The guides were superb - supportive, very experienced and very friendly. Our team contained a medical doctor who was very reassuring and who was conducting research on the effects of altitude on the body. The Ahsante team are very welcoming, experienced and knowledgeable. The friendliness of the group, the stunning scenery and the Ahsante team made this an unforgettable trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   seangamage 
 
 
 
 Verified Life long memories.
Our experience was split into two parts. Firstly, the Ahsante team got me and my friend to Uhuru Peak. Nine days, Northern Circuit - absolutely amazing. Professional, supportive and fun; we could not have asked for more. After the climb, Ahsante got four of us from Weru Weru River Lodge to Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Central/Northern Serengeti. Knowledgeable guides, great camps - saw the Great Migration over the Mara River, lions, rhino, cheetah, elephant, zebra, crocodile, hippo, giraffe. Life long memories.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   mark s 
 
 
 
 Verified Safari-tastic!
Our 5 day Safari was amazing (if a little too long!) We saw such a great variety of animal life , and our drivers/ guides Godwin and Derek were very knowledgeable and could answer pretty much every question we asked, adding more information where they could. Godwin is a very skilled driver ( Derek is still training so not allowed to drive with customers) and handled those bumpy roads well. It was also great that he had car mechanic knowledge to sort out a few problems with our jeep along the way. They are both very professional but also friendly and we really enjoyed our time with them!

Frequently asked questions

What makes the Three Peaks Climb different from other Kilimanjaro routes?

It covers all three peaks—Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo—including the technical Mawenzi ascent, the remote Northern Circuit, and Shira Plateau traverse. You experience a deeper understanding of Kilimanjaro's geology, landscapes, and ecosystems.

Do I need technical climbing experience for Mawenzi Peak?

Yes. Mawenzi requires exposure to rock climbing and scrambling. While guides provide full technical support, prior climbing experience is strongly recommended.

What level of fitness is required?

Climbers should have good endurance, leg strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Multi-day high-altitude trekking, long summit day climbs, and technical scrambling require preparation.

How can I avoid altitude sickness?

Acclimatization days are included across Shira Plateau and the Northern Circuit. Drink plenty of water, pace yourself, and communicate symptoms to your guides. Severe altitude sickness requires immediate descent.

When is the best time to climb?

January–March and June–October are optimal. Trails are drier, and visibility is better for the Mawenzi and Kibo summits.

What gear is required?

Layered clothing, trekking boots, warm sleeping bag (–10°C rating), gloves, headlamp, trekking poles, and climbing equipment for Mawenzi are essential. A full packing list is provided.

Can beginners attempt this climb?

This route is recommended for experienced trekkers or those who have summited Kilimanjaro before. Mawenzi's technical sections are not suitable for first-time climbers.

Are meals provided on the mountain?

Yes. Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided at all camps. Safe drinking water is treated daily.

How difficult is Mawenzi compared to Kibo?

Mawenzi is more technical, with rock scrambling and exposure, whereas Kibo is a high-altitude trek. Mawenzi tests climbing skill and confidence on rock, while Kibo tests endurance.

What safety gear is used for Mawenzi?

Climbers use harnesses, helmets, ropes, and fixed anchors, with guides managing safety systems throughout the ascent.

How long does the Mawenzi summit attempt take?

Typically, 8–12 hours, depending on fitness, weather, and acclimatization.

What footwear is recommended for Mawenzi?

Rigid-soled trekking boots are sufficient. Some climbers prefer approach or mountaineering shoes. Trekking poles are not used on technical rock.

What if weather prevents Mawenzi summit?

Safety comes first. If conditions are dangerous, the summit attempt may be postponed or canceled. Climbers can still experience alpine terrain and Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

How do I prepare mentally and physically?

Train with long hikes, elevation gain, and multi-day backpacking. Mentally, practice comfort with exposure, steep terrain, and long high-altitude days.

Awards and certifications