Summit night starts from high altitude camps (Barafu Camp at 4,673m or Kibo Hut at 4,720m) in near-freezing temperatures under a blanket of stars.
Your crew wakes you up with hot tea and biscuits. You dress in your full technical layers (thermal bases, fleece, waterproof shells, and heavy down jacket). Headlamps are checked, and water bottles are insulated to prevent freezing.
You begin the slow walk upward in a single-file line under the guidance of our lead guides. The gradient is steep, and you climb over loose volcanic gravel. The pace is slow, focusing on rhythmic breathing.
As the first orange glow of sunrise appears over the African plains, you reach the crater rim. Stella Point (5,756m) is a major milestone where you enjoy hot tea and recover your energy.
From Stella Point, you hike for 45 minutes along the snow-covered crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the roof of Africa. Standing next to the iconic wooden sign as the sun rises over glaciers is an emotional, unforgettable achievement.
After photos, you descend rapidly back to high camp for a short rest and lunch. You then continue descending to lower camps (Mweka Camp at 3,100m) to sleep in thick, oxygen-rich air.