Day 3: Shira Cave Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp; 7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing with Morishas Tours and Safaris.
After breakfast at Shira Cave Camp, the trek continues east toward Lava Tower, an important acclimatization point on Mount Kilimanjaro. This stage covers about 10–11 kilometers and takes around 6 to 8 hours of hiking.
The trail moves through the alpine desert zone, where the landscape becomes more dry, rocky, and open with very little vegetation. As you climb higher to Lava Tower (about 4,600 meters), you may begin to feel the effects of altitude. This is a normal and important part of acclimatization, so the pace is slow and steady.
After reaching Lava Tower, you will have lunch and spend some time here to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. Then, the route descends down to Barranco Camp at about 3,950 meters. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy greatly improves your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
The descent to Barranco Camp offers beautiful views of valleys, glaciers, and the famous Barranco Wall. Upon arrival, you can relax, enjoy dinner, and take in one of the most scenic camps on the mountain.
This day is very important for acclimatization and offers a mix of challenge, learning, and stunning landscapes, making it one of the most memorable parts of the Machame Route with Morishas Tours and Safaris.