High Adventure, Stunning Views, and a Strong Chance of Success
The Western Breach route on Mount Kilimanjaro is a very challenging and beautiful path that is different from other routes. It offers unique, close-up views of glaciers and the inner crater, and you will see far fewer people.
However, it is also considered the most dangerous route. This is because of a constant risk of falling rocks, especially from melting glaciers. The climb itself is more technical, requiring you to scramble over steep and unstable ground.
The route generally has a lower success rate than paths like the Lemosho. On shorter trips, poor acclimatization can increase the risk of altitude sickness, and there are parts of the route where an emergency descent is very difficult.
Because of these risks, the Western Breach is only recommended for highly experienced climbers who are fully aware of the dangers.
The Western Breach is a very challenging and beautiful route on Kilimanjaro for adventurous climbers. It offers stunning, close-up views of glaciers and the inner crater, and you will see far fewer people than on other paths. For experienced climbers, it provides a great sense of accomplishment.
However, the route comes with serious risks, most notably the danger of rockfall from melting glaciers. This is why it’s considered the most dangerous route on the mountain. The climb is also much harder than other routes, with steep scrambling over unstable ground.
You should know that shorter trips on this route offer less time to acclimatize, which significantly increases the risk of altitude sickness. Also, if a climber gets sick, getting down safely in certain sections is very difficult.
Because of these serious dangers, the Western Breach is only recommended for highly experienced climbers who fully understand and accept the risks. It is not for the average trekker.
Everything you should know about gear for climbing the highest mountain in Africa
Need assistance? We’re here to help.
For anyone considering the Western Breach route up Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s important to know that its success rate is lower than more popular routes like Lemosho, where over 80-90% of climbers reach the summit.
The Western Breach is challenging for several reasons. The route has sections where falling rocks are a serious safety concern. It’s also physically tougher, with steep sections and uneven ground that require scrambling. Furthermore, shorter trips don’t give your body enough time to adjust to the high altitude, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. If you get sick on this route, getting down quickly is much more difficult.
To improve your chances of success, you should take a longer trip (like a 9-day itinerary) to help your body acclimatize. This route is best for climbers who already have a lot of experience with high-altitude trekking. Good weather is crucial for a safer climb, and having very experienced guides who know this specific route is essential for your safety.
In short, while the Western Breach offers amazing views and a unique adventure, it is a much more difficult and risky path. It’s only recommended for very experienced mountaineers who fully understand these challenges.
Touch down at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your driver will be waiting to greet you. Let your driver whisk you away to your chosen hotel in the bright and bustling city of Arusha –the gateway to Tanzania.
Arusha is the beating heart of the wild – the last port of civilization before heading out into dense jungles and rich savannah plains. The markets of Arusha burst with color, and throng with locals picking up their weekly wares. The numerous cafes sell dark and deliriously good coffee from the plantations, and close by the infamous National Park lures visitors in to explore her evocative Maasai culture and exotic flora and fauna.
In the evening, you will enjoy a quick briefing, which will be conducted by a professional Bush 2 City Mountain Guide about your trek, and to ensure you are ready for climbing.
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll embark on a three-hour drive to Lemosho Gate for registration. Lunch will be served at the gate before you head to the trek’s starting point at 2,100m. From there, you’ll hike through the rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp, your destination for the day.
Distance: 7km
Estimated hiking time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 550m
Vegetation zone: Rain Forest
The trail to Shira Camp 1 offers a scenic change as you move into the heather and moorland. You’ll enjoy a packed lunch en route before arriving at the camp, where a delicious meal will be waiting for you.
Distance: 10km
Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
Elevation gain: 960m
Vegetation zone: Heath and Moorland
This day offers the best views of the towering mountain, and the path is mostly flat. You’ll cross the ancient Shira Plateau and visit Cathedral Point (3872m) for some short acclimatization excursions. A hot lunch will be served at Shira Camp 2, where you’ll rest for the rest of the day.
Distance: 10km
Estimated hiking time: 4-6hours
Elevation Gain: 240m
Vegetation zone: Moorland
Today’s trek leads you through the Lemosho and Machame junction and across the shadow valleys to Lava Tower. Following a hot lunch break there, you’ll proceed to Arrow Glacier Camp to rest and prepare for your early morning summit ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Distance: 9km
Estimated hiking time: 5-7 hours
Elevation gain; 1620m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Today is your big summit day via the Western Breach, known as the most challenging route. You’ll begin your climb at midnight, navigating rocky sections and the snowline with your guides expertly leading the way through the ever-changing landscape.
After 5-6 hours of climbing, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point! Following your summit achievement, you’ll descend to Crater Camp for breakfast and a short break. Your guides will then take you on a brief tour of the impressive giant glaciers and the ash pit within the crater. You’ll then return to Crater Camp to spend the rest of your day resting after your incredible accomplishment.
Distance: 6km
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain; 425m
Elevation loss; 145m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Following breakfast atop Uhuru Peak, your descent will commence via the Mweka Route, leading you to your final destination, Mweka Camp.
Distance: Approximately 17km
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation loss; 2,650m
Vegetation zone: Transition from Alpine desert to Rain Forest
After breakfast, you’ll walk back to Mweka Gate, enjoying the misty, deep green forest. You’ll then say goodbye to your guides and porters before getting into the shuttle that will take you back to Moshi, where you can look forward to a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and fresh clothes.
Distance: 10km
Estimated hiking time: 3-4hours
Elevation loss; 1,460m
Vegetation zone: Rain Forest
After getting some rest and refreshments at the hotel, your driver guide will take you to the airport, ready for your flight back home.
NOTE: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of your evening flight there is a procedural option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee
Our classic climbing package is the ideal choice for most adventurers, blending great comfort with the highest safety standards to create an unforgettable experience.
Everything you need for a successful trek is included: experienced mountain crews, high-quality group equipment, and nutritionist-designed meals.
Your safety is our top priority. All our guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and every expedition includes oxygen cylinders, complete medical kits, and mandatory medical check-ups twice a day. For your peace of mind, a GPS device tracks your party’s progress in real-time, allowing you to share a link with family and friends.
Before and after your climb, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel with caring staff, reliable Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and hot water.
Price per person
Price per person
To ensure a smooth start and end to your climb, our package provides dedicated transfers specifically for your journey to and from the park gate. For your arrival and departure at the airport, we offer a separate, optional transfer service that can be arranged at your convenience. Just let us know your flight details if you’d like us to organize this for you.
Your pre and post-climb accommodation is included in your package. We’ve arranged comfortable stays for you before and after your climb to ensure you’re well-rested and ready for your adventure.
For your convenience and comfort on the mountain, we provide all necessary camping equipment for the trip, including tents, cooking gear, and dining essentials. Please note that you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.
Rest assured, all your meals throughout the entire climbing trip will be freshly prepared by our team. We’ve got your culinary needs covered from start to finish!
You’ll be in excellent hands with our experienced team on the mountain. Our well-trained and WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certified guides will lead the way, ensuring your safety and success. Our hardworking porters will manage all your gear, and our dedicated cook will prepare delicious meals, making your entire trip enjoyable and seamless.
For your safety on the mountain, an emergency oxygen tank is included and will be carried by the crew throughout your climb.
Your safety is our priority. We include daily medical check-ups by our WFR-certified guides, and our crew will carry a fully loaded medical kit to address any health concerns that may arise during the trek.
For your peace of mind, we provide 24/7 support via satellite phone throughout your entire trip, ensuring constant communication and emergency access no matter where you are on the mountain.
To ensure a completely hassle-free experience, all necessary park entrance fees, conservation fees, rescue fees, and government taxes are fully included in your package price. This means you won’t encounter any hidden costs for accessing the national park or climbing Kilimanjaro itself, allowing you to focus purely on your adventure.
You’ll have the full backing of our dedicated support team throughout your entire journey. From your initial inquiry until you safely return home, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Don’t worry about your extra luggage while you’re on the mountain. We provide a safe and secure storage room for any bags you don’t need to take on your climb. You can leave your belongings with us with complete peace of mind, and they’ll be ready for you upon your return
We’re passionate about protecting Mount Kilimanjaro’s natural splendor. Our “Leave No Trace” approach goes beyond words: we take proactive steps by deploying our dedicated teams during the off-peak season to remove any litter from the mountain. Our company fully funds these vital clean-up initiatives, ensuring every adventure with us contributes to a truly responsible and sustainable environment.
By booking directly with us, you directly fuel positive change. Your adventure provides stable employment for guides, porters, and cooks from nearby villages. We also commit to sourcing our supplies locally, ensuring your trip’s economic benefits flow right into the hands of area businesses and families, cultivating true prosperity within the region.
To ensure your comfort and maintain excellent hygiene during your Mount Kilimanjaro expedition, portable toilets are thoughtfully included in your package. Our aim is to provide a clean and convenient experience at all times.
We understand the importance of privacy and freedom while on the mountain. By providing dedicated portable toilets, we avoid reliance on public facilities. This not only gives you more personal space but also addresses the challenge of maintaining hygiene in public toilets, which can often be heavily used and difficult for park authorities to keep 100% clean at all times.
Please note that international flights are not included in the package price. You will need to arrange your own flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which serves as your entry and exit point for this trip.
Please note that tips for your climbing crew are not included in the package price. Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by our hardworking team for their excellent service. We encourage you to read more about our suggested tipping structure on our website for detailed guidance.
Please be aware that visa fees are not included in your package. You will be responsible for obtaining the necessary visa for entry into Tanzania.
Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the visa application process, we highly recommend you read our detailed article on visa application procedures available on our website. It provides step-by-step guidance to assist you.
Please note that personal gear rentals (e.g., specialized clothing, trekking poles, etc.) are not included in your package. While you’ll need to bring your own personal climbing and trekking equipment, it’s worth noting that there are reliable rental shops here in Tanzania.
This means you don’t necessarily have to buy all the equipment, especially if you don’t anticipate needing it for future treks. Instead of carrying a heavy load of gear from home, you can opt to bring essential items and rent the rest upon your arrival, making your travel much lighter and more convenient.
Please note that our package pricing is based on shared accommodation (double occupancy). If you are a solo traveler and prefer a private room, a single supplement will apply and will be an additional charge to your package.
Please be advised that travel insurance is not included in your package. It is mandatory for all clients to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, evacuation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Please note that lunch and dinner at your hotel before and after your climb are not included in your package. Only breakfast is provided at the hotel. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your own dining options for lunch and dinner during these times.
Elevate your climb with our premium package, designed for ultimate comfort and safety.
On the mountain, you’ll enjoy spacious walk-in tents with cots, an enhanced meal plan, a private portable toilet, and a satellite phone for staying in touch.
Your safety is our priority. All guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and we carry oxygen, medical kits, and conduct twice-daily medical checks.
The journey starts and ends with a stay at a Luxury hotel in Arusha, including breakfast and dinner.
Price per person
Price per person
This premium expedition package includes two nights at the luxurious Mount Meru Game Lodge in Arusha—one night before and one night after your climb. The lodge’s exceptional service and serene setting provide a comfortable and relaxing start and end to your adventure.
On the mountain, you’ll stay in spacious, custom-designed, four-season walk-in tents. By default, you’ll share a room at the lodge and a tent with your travel companion; single occupancy is available upon request for an additional fee.
To ensure your comfort and maintain excellent hygiene during your Mount Kilimanjaro expedition, portable toilets are thoughtfully included in your package. Our aim is to provide a clean and convenient experience at all times.
We understand the importance of privacy and freedom while on the mountain. By providing dedicated portable toilets, we avoid reliance on public facilities. This not only gives you more personal space but also addresses the challenge of maintaining hygiene in public toilets, which can often be heavily used and difficult for park authorities to keep 100% clean at all times.
At Bush 2 City, we provide a safe and comfortable camping experience on your Kilimanjaro adventure. Here’s what you can expect:
Our Tents and Sleeping Gear
We use durable tents designed to keep you warm and dry. Each tent has a separate area to store your boots and gear. Tents are spacious enough for two people and their bags, even though they’re made for three. You’ll share a tent with your travel partner, or with another hiker of the same sex if you’re traveling alone. If you’d like your own tent, you can request one for an additional fee.
For extra comfort, we offer a larger walk-in tent with enough space for a camping cot, also for an additional fee. All of our trips include a thick, 3-inch sleeping mat to ensure a good night’s rest.
Dining and Socializing
Enjoy meals in our strong, wind- and rain-proof dining tents. We provide camping tables with reusable cutlery and crockery, served and cleaned by our kitchen crew. We never use plastic disposable tableware.
We also provide comfortable, foldable chairs with back and arm support, so you can relax and socialize with your fellow hikers.
Camp Amenities and Management
Our camps include a hand-washing stand with hot water. Your camp managers arrive early to set up camp in the best spot and inspect all equipment to ensure a smooth trip. They also carry a repair kit for any quick fixes, though this is rarely needed.
Rest assured, all your meals throughout the entire climbing trip will be freshly prepared by our team. We’ve got your culinary needs covered from start to finish!
You’ll be in excellent hands with our experienced team on the mountain. Our well-trained and WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certified guides will lead the way, ensuring your safety and success. Our hardworking porters will manage all your gear, and our dedicated cook will prepare delicious meals, making your entire trip enjoyable and seamless.
For your safety on the mountain, an emergency oxygen tank is included and will be carried by the crew throughout your climb.
Your safety is our priority. We include daily medical check-ups by our WFR-certified guides, and our crew will carry a fully loaded medical kit to address any health concerns that may arise during the trek.
For your peace of mind, we provide 24/7 support via satellite phone throughout your entire trip, ensuring constant communication and emergency access no matter where you are on the mountain.
To ensure a completely hassle-free experience, all necessary park entrance fees, conservation fees, rescue fees, and government taxes are fully included in your package price. This means you won’t encounter any hidden costs for accessing the national park or climbing Kilimanjaro itself, allowing you to focus purely on your adventure.
You’ll have the full backing of our dedicated support team throughout your entire journey. From your initial inquiry until you safely return home, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Don’t worry about your extra luggage while you’re on the mountain. We provide a safe and secure storage room for any bags you don’t need to take on your climb. You can leave your belongings with us with complete peace of mind, and they’ll be ready for you upon your return
We’re passionate about protecting Mount Kilimanjaro’s natural splendor. Our “Leave No Trace” approach goes beyond words: we take proactive steps by deploying our dedicated teams during the off-peak season to remove any litter from the mountain. Our company fully funds these vital clean-up initiatives, ensuring every adventure with us contributes to a truly responsible and sustainable environment.
By booking directly with us, you directly fuel positive change. Your adventure provides stable employment for guides, porters, and cooks from nearby villages. We also commit to sourcing our supplies locally, ensuring your trip’s economic benefits flow right into the hands of area businesses and families, cultivating true prosperity within the region.
Please note that international flights are not included in the package price. You will need to arrange your own flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which serves as your entry and exit point for this trip.
Please note that tips for your climbing crew are not included in the package price. Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by our hardworking team for their excellent service. We encourage you to read more about our suggested tipping structure on our website for detailed guidance.
Please be aware that visa fees are not included in your package. You will be responsible for obtaining the necessary visa for entry into Tanzania.
Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the visa application process, we highly recommend you read our detailed article on visa application procedures available on our website. It provides step-by-step guidance to assist you.
Please note that personal gear rentals (e.g., specialized clothing, trekking poles, etc.) are not included in your package. While you’ll need to bring your own personal climbing and trekking equipment, it’s worth noting that there are reliable rental shops here in Tanzania.
This means you don’t necessarily have to buy all the equipment, especially if you don’t anticipate needing it for future treks. Instead of carrying a heavy load of gear from home, you can opt to bring essential items and rent the rest upon your arrival, making your travel much lighter and more convenient.
Please note that our package pricing is based on shared accommodation (double occupancy). If you are a solo traveler and prefer a private room, a single supplement will apply and will be an additional charge to your package.
Please be advised that travel insurance is not included in your package. It is mandatory for all clients to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, evacuation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
The Western Breach is a challenging and direct ascent to Kilimanjaro’s summit, known for its steepness and a high degree of technical difficulty compared to other routes. It is considered the most demanding and, historically, the most dangerous route on the mountain.
The Western Breach is a gap in the crater wall on the western side of Kibo, the main volcanic cone of Kilimanjaro. It is a steep and rocky path that leads directly to the crater floor, offering a unique opportunity to camp inside the crater. The route is typically accessed from other routes such as Umbwe, Lemosho, Shira, and Machame.
The Western Breach is considered the most dangerous route on Kilimanjaro due to the risk of rockfalls. In 2006, a tragic rockfall claimed the lives of three climbers, leading to the temporary closure of the route. Although it has since reopened with a modified path to reduce exposure to the highest-risk areas, the inherent danger remains. The danger is heightened by melting glaciers above the route, which can release loose rocks.
While you don’t need to be a technical rock climber, the Western Breach requires a high level of physical fitness and comfort with scrambling over steep, rocky terrain. Some sections may involve using your hands and feet to climb, and a fixed rope may be necessary. It is not recommended for beginners.
The Western Breach itself is a short but strenuous section of the climb. The full expedition, however, typically takes six to nine days, depending on the approach route. The six-day itineraries are very demanding and offer minimal time for acclimatization, while longer itineraries provide a better chance of success.
The success rate for the Western Breach is highly dependent on the experience and preparation of the climbers. Because it attracts seasoned trekkers, many operators report high success rates. However, due to the rapid altitude gain and inherent risks, it is not considered a high-success-rate route for the general climbing population.
Following your Kilimanjaro climb, you have the opportunity to extend your adventure by adding a safari or a relaxing beach vacation. This allows you to experience the diverse beauty of Tanzania in a single, comprehensive trip. We can customize an itinerary that seamlessly transitions from the high-altitude challenge of the mountain to the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti or the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
Tell us your ideas, and we’ll craft a personalized travel itinerary within 3 hours.
Ready to book your trip? Just tell us your dates, interests, and budget, and we’ll send a custom, no-obligation itinerary straight to your inbox.
