9 Days Tanzania Mount Kilimanjaro Western Breach Route

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro on the 9-Day Western Breach Route

The Western Breach Route stands as a testament to the bold and adventurous spirit of mountaineers. Renowned as the toughest and most challenging path up Mount Kilimanjaro, it promises an unparalleled experience for those daring enough to take on its rugged terrain. 

Ascending from the west, this route unveils the mountain's unique beauty, offering vistas and encounters found nowhere else. Traversing from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, the journey leads through the Shira Plateau and onward to Lava Tower, where a night's rest awaits. From there, the route ventures towards Arrow Glacier Camp, navigating through a perilous zone only accessible under the cloak of night. Helmets are essential for safety, given the ever-shifting rock slides along the breach.

Yet, the challenges are matched by extraordinary rewards. As you leave the danger zone behind, you'll be greeted by breathtaking panoramas of Mount Meru and the majestic Kilimanjaro glacier. A night spent at Crater Camp offers a rare opportunity to stand at the edge of the mountain's heart—the Kilimanjaro crater—before summiting Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.

Few companies offer the Western Breach Route due to its stringent safety requirements and the expertise demanded of mountain guides. Berngo Safaris proudly presents this exceptional journey to ambitious climbers seeking the ultimate adventure. Contact us for further details and embark on an unforgettable ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will be there to warmly welcome you. You'll then be whisked away to your hotel in the charming town of Moshi. Here, you'll have the chance to settle in and relax after your journey.

Once you've had a moment to refresh, you'll meet with your guide who will provide you with a detailed briefing on the upcoming trek. Together, you'll conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear for your adventure. Any missing items can easily be rented on this day.

Travel Details:

- Driving Distance: 55 km (approximately)

- Driving Time: 1 hour

- Habitat: Cultivated Zone

- Accommodation: Bed and Breakfast at the hotel in Moshi town

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro!

Day 2: Moshi to Lemosho Gate & Big Tree Camp

Lemosho Trail, Kilimanjaro National Park

- Starting Point: 6,890 feet / 2100 meters

- Ending Point: 8,695 feet / 2650 meters

- Distance 4 miles / 7 kilometers

- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

- Climate Zone: Rainforest

After a hearty breakfast, your journey begins as you depart by vehicle to Kilimanjaro National Park. Upon arrival at the gate, your experienced crew will finalize packing and handle all necessary formalities. Then, you'll hop back into your vehicle for a scenic drive, lasting approximately 30 minutes, until you reach the starting point of the Lemosho Trail.

Today's hike leads you through the lush and vibrant afromontane forest, characterized by its diverse flora and steep terrain. As you ascend, be prepared for captivating views and immersive nature experiences. A delightful picnic lunch is typically enjoyed along the trail before you continue onwards to your destination for the night: Forest Camp.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the rainforest surroundings as you settle into camp and prepare for a restful evening amidst nature's embrace.

Prepare for an exhilarating journey ahead as you embark on the Lemosho Trail towards your ultimate goal: the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 3 – Shira Camp 1

Shira Camp 1

- Starting Altitude: 8,695 feet / 2650 meters

- Ending Altitude: 11,844 feet / 3610 meters

- Distance: 4 miles / 7 kilometers

- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

- Climate Zone: Heath

Today's journey takes you from the forested slopes of Lemosho through the enchanting landscapes of Podocarpus and Juniper forests. As you ascend, you'll gradually transition from the lush greenery of the forest to the open expanses of the heath zone and the majestic Shira Plateau.

A delightful hot lunch awaits you at Shira Camp 1, providing a welcome respite and an opportunity to refuel for the rest of your adventure. Spend the afternoon unwinding and acclimatizing to the new altitude, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Embrace the serenity of your surroundings as you prepare for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead on your journey to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 4 – Moir Camp

Moir Camp, Kilimanjaro

- Starting Altitude: 11,844 feet / 3610 meters

- Ending Altitude: 13,780 feet / 4200 meters

- Distance: 6 miles / 10 kilometers

- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

- Climate Zone: Alpine Desert

Today's trek takes you through the captivating landscapes of the Shira Plateau, offering some of the most scenic vistas of your journey. After a morning hike of approximately 4-5 hours, you'll reach Moir Camp, situated at an elevation of 13,780 feet (4200 meters), where a satisfying lunch awaits.

The afternoon provides an opportunity for acclimatization as you adjust to the altitude. For those seeking an additional adventure, a late afternoon hike to a nearby viewpoint is highly recommended. This not only keeps your body active but also allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.

Take advantage of this time to rest, rejuvenate, and prepare for the challenges and wonders that lie ahead on your ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 5 – Pofu Camp

Lava Tower Camp

- Starting Altitude: 13,780 feet / 4200 meters

- Ending Altitude: 13,232 feet / 4033 meters

- Distance: 8 miles / 12 kilometers

- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

- Climate Zone: Alpine Desert

Today's journey deviates from the conventional western routes, leading you on a path northward, tracing a clockwise curve around the Kibo Massif. Amidst this route, you'll find fewer groups, offering a unique sense of solitude and tranquility. 

Traversing through the alpine desert and skirting the edge of the heath zone, you'll arrive at Pofu Camp. Upon arrival, most groups settle in for lunch, refueling their energy for the day's trek. Following a satisfying meal, an afternoon acclimatization hike is typically undertaken, allowing you to adjust to the altitude and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the surroundings.

Day 6 – Cave 3 Camp

Kibo Massif, Mount Kilimanjaro

- Starting Altitude: 12,232 feet / 4033 meters

- Ending Altitude: 12,468 feet / 3800 meters

- Distance: 5 miles / 8 kilometers

- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

- Climate Zone: Alpine Desert

Departing from Pofu Camp, you embark on a trail that ascends along a ridge, leading you around the northern face of the majestic Kibo Massif. The route maintains its course along the periphery of the heath zone, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching Cave 3, ample time is allocated for rest, allowing you to recuperate from the day's exertions. Later in the afternoon, a brief acclimatization walk is encouraged, providing an opportunity to further adjust to the altitude while relishing the tranquility of the mountain environment.

Day 7 - School Hut

Barranco Wall, Mount Kilimanjaro

- Starting Altitude: 12,468 feet / 3800 meters

- Ending Altitude: 15,749 feet / 4800 meters

Driving Distance: 55 km (approximately) in Moshi towners)(meters)(guide,coverrsersterserstersmeterstersmetersters

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Climate Zone: Alpine Desert

Leaving from Cave 3, your journey continues along the northeastern slopes of Kibo until you reach School Hut, where you'll have ample time to review and organize your gear in preparation for the summit ascent. Following an early dinner, you'll retire for some rest before embarking on the summit bid.

Day 8: Crater Camp

Gilman’s Point, Mount Kilimanjaro

Starting Altitude: 15,749 feet (4800 meters)

Ending Altitude: 18,865 feet (5750 meters)

Distance: 5 miles / 8 kilometers

Hiking Time: 8–12 hours

Climate Zones: Alpine Desert, Arctic

Awaking before dawn, you'll embark on your summit attempt, navigating the switchbacks to Gilman’s Point before tracing the caldera's edge to Uhuru Peak—the Roof of Africa! After capturing photographs and relishing the breathtaking vistas, you'll proceed to Crater Camp, nestled inside the volcano.

Day 9: Reusch Crater & Descent to Mweka Camp

Reusch Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro

Starting Altitude: 18,865 feet (5750 meters)

Ending Altitude: 10,171 feet (3100 meters)

Distance: 9 miles / 15 kilometers

Hiking Time: 9–11 hours

Climate Zones: Arctic, Alpine Desert, Heath, Rainforest

Embark on a morning hike to witness the famous Ash Pit at Reusch Crater, or opt for a second summit as the sun ascends. Descend via Barafu Camp, traversing through the alpine desert, heath, and moorland, until you reach Mweka Camp, your final resting place on the mountain.

Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Starting Altitude: 10,171 feet (3100 meters)

Ending Altitude: 5,381 feet (1640 meters)

Distance: 6 miles / 10 kilometers

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Climate Zone: Rainforest

After breakfast, commence your descent through the lush rainforest, offering a final glimpse of Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak, where you stood just a day ago. Around midday, bid farewell to your dedicated crew as you arrive at Mweka Gate, marking the official exit of Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park. From there, you'll be picked up and transferred back to your lodge for a well-deserved shower. Later in the evening, a representative from Tanzania Horizon Safaris will visit you to extend congratulations, gather feedback on your journey, and address any remaining questions about your onward travels.

Day 11: Departure Day

Take this day to relax and unwind after your trek before your departure flight. If time permits, explore the charming town of Moshi and pick up some souvenirs to commemorate your adventure before heading to the airport.

Safaris, Zanzibar, and other add-ons are available if you wish to further explore Tanzania.

Meals: Breakfast Included

PRICE OVERVIEW

Group Size | Price per person

-----------------|-------------------

1 person | USD 2690/person

2-3 people | USD 2580/person

4-5 people | USD 2520/person

6-7 people | USD 2480/person

8-9 people | USD 2450/person

10–12 people | USD 2390/person

Price includes

 • Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Moshi 

• 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi 

• Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate 

• Park entry fees 

• Camping fees 

• Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees 

• 18% VAT on tour fees & services

 • Mountain tents 

• Sleeping Mats 

• Friendly and professional mountain guides, cooksand porters

 • 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain 

• Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek 

• Hot water for washing 

• Fair wages for the mountain crew

 • Government taxes 

• Emergency first-aid kit

Price excludes

Lunches, dinners and drinks at your hotel before and after climb

. Travel insurance

 portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is available for extra charges $ 80 for the entire trek. 

– Flights 

Laundry (Available at hotel)

 Personal items and toiletries 

Tips for guides, porters and cooks (this is a guide to tipping on the mountain)