Altitude: 3,840 m – 3,960 m Hiking distance: 11 km Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Today, the trail leads you eastward, revealing a mesmerizing semi-desert landscape adorned with rugged rocks. Your journey takes you to the formidable Lava Tower, a striking pinnacle that reaches an impressive altitude of 4,630 meters. This leg of the trek lasts about five hours, and it's here, at the iconic Lava Tower, where you'll pause for a well-deserved lunch. The setting, albeit stark, is uniquely captivating, providing a dramatic backdrop to your midday respite.
As you ascend the rocky scree path to Lava Tower, situated at a dizzying altitude, you might notice the first signs of altitude-related effects, such as breathlessness, irritability, or mild headaches. These sensations are common as you venture higher into Kilimanjaro's realm.
Following your rejuvenating lunch, a descent of approximately 680 meters leads you to the welcoming embrace of Barranco Camp, nestled in a picturesque valley beneath the imposing Breach and Great Barranco Wall. This is where the true benefits of acclimatization become apparent, as you've now touched the lofty heights of 4,600 meters at Lava Tower.
Descending to Barranco Camp takes about two hours, affording you ample opportunities to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the Western Breach and Breach Wall in your photographs. As the day's sunlight wanes, you'll relish the breathtaking sunset views before savoring a sumptuous dinner at Barranco Camp, where you'll spend the night.