Eight Days Kilimanjaro Climb Grand Traverse route with Safari Seekers Expedition
Overview:
Grand Traverse Route on Kilimanjaro is less crowded than some of the other popular routes, such as the Marangu or Machame routes, the route takes hikers off the beaten path and through some of the more remote areas of the mountain, which can contribute to a quieter and less crowded experience
It is also offers hikers a chance to see the mountain from multiple sides and angles. This is because the route circumnavigates the mountain, taking hikers on a journey around the entire perimeter of Kilimanjaro. Along the way, hikers will encounter stunning views of the mountain from different perspectives, including from the north, east, south, and west. This is a unique and rare opportunity that is not offered on many of the other popular Kilimanjaro routes, which typically ascend and descend up one side of the mountain. The panoramic views of Kilimanjaro from the Grand Traverse Route are truly unforgettable and offer a comprehensive appreciation of the mountain’s majestic beauty.
Here are some frequently asked questions about this route:
The grand traverse route is one of the less-traveled routes on Kilimanjaro and offers stunning and varied landscapes, including the rarely visited northern side of the mountain. It is longer than other popular routes and requires trekkers to cross the mountain from one side to the other.
The grand traverse route is approximately 90 km (56 miles) long and takes about 10-12 days to complete. It is one of the longest and most challenging routes, requiring excellent physical fitness and stamina.
The success rate for the grand traverse route varies but is usually lower than other popular routes due to its length and difficulty. However, with proper preparation, the success rate is still achievable.
The grand traverse route offers a varied terrain, from rainforest to alpine desert to arctic-like conditions near the summit. It requires trekkers to cross the mountain from one side to the other, leading to a unique experience of Kilimanjaro while experiencing different ecological zones. The trail is generally well-maintained, but there are some steep and rocky sections.
The grand traverse route requires trekkers to have excellent physical fitness and stamina. As the trail is challenging and long, we highly recommend undertaking a fitness training program before the trek.
Safari Seekers Expedition will provide tents ,Chairs, table, potable outdoor Toilet /shower tent and a mess tents for meals and socializing.
We recommend bringing suitable clothing for the various terrains and temperatures, as well as a sturdy pair of hiking boots, trekking poles, a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, and a variety of other essentials like a camera, headlamp, and water bottle. A comprehensive list of gear will be provided by your tour operator.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kilimanjaro International Airport
Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative from Safari Seekers Expedition and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Here, you will meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing and equipment check. Dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Transfer to Londorossi Gate and Trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m)
After breakfast, you will be driven to Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro, approximately a 3-hour drive from Arusha. After registration, you will begin the trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp, which takes about 3-4 hours through the lush rainforest zone. Dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Trek to Shira One Camp (3,720m)
After breakfast, you will ascend through the rainforest zone before reaching the moorland zone and reaching half way 3,500m for lunch. After lunch, you will continue ascending towards Shira One Camp, which takes about 4-5 hours of trekking. Dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Trek to Moir Hut (4,200m)
After breakfast, you will begin trekking towards Moir Hut, which is located on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, away from the standard trails. This portion of the trek offers incredible views of the mountain’s northern glaciers and the plains below. Dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Trek to Pofu Camp (4,020m)
After breakfast, you will trek through the rocky, volcanic landscapes before reaching the alpine desert zone. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Kenyan plains to the north and Mount Meru to the east. Dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Trek to Third Cave Camp (3,830m)
After breakfast, you will descend through a forested zone before reaching Rongai Third Cave Camp, which takes about 5-6 hours of trekking. Dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Trek to the Base Camp, Kibo Hut Camp (4,750m)
After breakfast, you will continue ascending through the rocky terrain towards Kibo Hut Camp, which takes about 4-5 hours of trekking. Here, you will get some rest before the final summit push. Dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Summit Day and descend to Millenium Camp
You will wake up at 3am for a hot drink and a light breakfast before beginning the final ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro. You will pass through the Gilman’s Point before continuing to Stella Point at 5,756m. From here, you will make the final push towards Uhuru Peak at 5,895m. After reaching the summit, you will descend through Barafu Camp to Millenium Camp, which takes about 10 to 11 hours of trekking. Dinner and overnight.
Day 10: Descend to Mweka Gate (1,650m) and Transfer to Arusha
After breakfast, you will descend to Mweka Gate and collect your summit certificates before being transferred back to Arusha. Here you will celebrate with dinner and overnight stay.
Day 11: Departure
Transfer to airport for departure.
Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on the preferences of the group, weather conditions, and other factors.
