Barafu Camp

Barafu Camp is the last overnight stop for climbers attempting to summit Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame, Lemosho, and Umbwe Routes. Situated at a high altitude of 4,673 meters (15,331 feet), this camp is a critical resting and preparation point before the final push to **Uhuru Peak**.

Location and Altitude

• Altitude: 4,673 meters (15,331 feet)
• Distance from Karanga Camp: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Estimated Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
• Terrain: Rocky alpine desert

The Journey to Barafu Camp

The trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp is a steady ascent through the **alpine desert zone**. The landscape becomes barren, with loose gravel and volcanic rock dominating the terrain. Oxygen levels drop significantly at this altitude, making slow and steady trekking essential.

Accommodation and Facilities

Barafu Camp is a rugged and exposed campsite with essential but minimal facilities, including:

• Rocky, uneven camping grounds for tents
• Basic toilet facilities (long-drop latrines)
• Harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures and strong winds
• Panoramic views of **Mawenzi Peak** and **Kibo’s glaciers**

Preparing for the Summit Push

Barafu Camp is where climbers **rest for a few hours** before beginning the summit attempt at **midnight**. The climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet) is long and challenging, taking **6 to 8 hours** to reach the summit. Key preparation steps include:

• Eating a light meal to maintain energy
• Dressing in **warm layers** for freezing temperatures
• Ensuring headlamps and trekking poles are ready
• Staying hydrated despite the cold

Scenic Highlights: Stunning Views Above the Clouds

From Barafu Camp, climbers can enjoy spectacular views, including:

• The distant **glaciers of Kibo Peak**
• A breathtaking sunrise over **Mawenzi Peak**
• Expansive landscapes stretching as far as Tanzania’s lowlands

The Final Ascent: Uhuru Peak

At around **midnight**, climbers leave Barafu Camp for the summit. The route follows a steep incline up **Stella Point (5,756 meters / 18,885 feet)** before reaching **Uhuru Peak**, the highest point in Africa. The journey involves:

• Extreme cold, often dropping below freezing
• Slow, steady pacing to manage altitude sickness
• An unforgettable **sunrise at the summit**

Descending to Mweka Camp

After reaching Uhuru Peak, climbers descend back to **Barafu Camp** for a short rest before continuing down to **Mweka Camp (3,100 meters / 10,170 feet)** for their final night on the mountain.

In Summary

Barafu Camp is the ultimate test of endurance before the final ascent to **Uhuru Peak**. With its rugged terrain, cold temperatures, and high altitude, it is both a challenging and rewarding stop on the journey to the top of Africa.