EARLY MORNING WAKE-UP CALL

It’s 6:30am and you’re woken by the team as they bring your hot drink of choice to your tent, for most climbers, that’s a strong coffee. There’s no better way to start the day than sipping something warm while wrapped up in your sleeping bag.

Mornings on Kilimanjaro can be cold, but once the sun hits camp, it warms up quickly. You’ll usually have 45 minutes before breakfast, giving you time to get dressed, pack up your sleeping bag, and freshen up at the washing station. Hot water is provided for washing your face and hands, though showers are available in camp if you prefer.

Most climbers share a tent with another trekker (unless you’ve booked a private tent). Each has a cot bed with space underneath for bags, leaving a clear open area in the middle. Stepping out of the tent, you’ll often be greeted with sweeping mountain views before heading into the mess tent for breakfast.

Breakfast with a View Above the Clouds

Mornings on Kilimanjaro are usually clear, with spectacular views above the clouds. As a guide, one of my favourite rituals is grabbing an early coffee, putting on warm clothes, and enjoying the silence and scenery.

The aroma of breakfast fills the camp as Kennedy and the kitchen team prepare the meal. The mess tent is set with hot drinks, coffee, tea, hibiscus tea, hot chocolate, and often a favourite among trekkers: Milo.

Breakfast typically includes porridge with jam or Nutella, pancakes, chapati, sausages, omelettes, and fresh fruit. By the time you’ve finished eating, the sun will have warmed the camp enough for shorts and t-shirts. Meanwhile, the support crew are already breaking down tents, packing up equipment, and sending our runner ahead to secure the best campsite spots for the evening.

Morning Trek: Landscapes Shifting with Altitude

After breakfast, it’s time to fill up water bottles, pack your day bag, and meet the guides. While we try to keep the group together, we understand that fitness levels and altitude effects vary. If someone needs a slower pace or more rest, we personalise the plan so everyone has the best chance of success.

The first few minutes of trekking can feel surprisingly tough as you adjust to the altitude. That’s why we go pole pole, slowly, steadily. Nelson, one of our guides, is a master at setting a smooth rhythm to conserve energy and maximise acclimatisation. Trekking slowly also helps you take in the constantly changing scenery, from lush rainforest to alpine desert.

Lunch Stops and Rest Breaks

On most days along the Lemosho Route (our most popular Kilimanjaro route), you’ll arrive in camp by around 2pm. But before that, we like to surprise climbers with our very own “Starbucks”!

No espresso machines or name-misspelt cups here. Instead, our team sets up a proper coffee stop complete with chairs, snacks, and hot drinks. These breaks keep you hydrated, give your legs a rest, and most importantly, remind you to stop and soak up the incredible views.

Afternoon Push: Finding Your Rhythm

After the coffee break, you’re usually more than halfway through the day’s trek. Each stage of Kilimanjaro is completely different, with new ecological zones and landscapes unfolding daily, so it never feels repetitive.

As you near camp, our team often hikes out to meet you, taking your pack for the final 15 minutes. They do this voluntarily because they genuinely want to support you and to make sure you save your strength for the all-important summit night.

Evenings in Camp: Stories, Stars, and Preparation

On arrival, lunch is usually waiting. Soup followed by rice, pasta, or meat dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options too. Fresh supplies are carried up midway through the climb, ensuring meals stay hearty and nourishing.

After lunch, it’s shower time if you’d like one. We heat water and set up a private shower tent with soap provided. It’s always best to shower before sunset, when the air is warmer. Afterwards, you’ll have a few hours to rest, nap, or simply enjoy camp life. Sleep is one of the most important tools for acclimatisation, so downtime is encouraged.

Dinner follows a similar set-up, often starting with soup to boost hydration, followed by meals like pizza, pasta, or rice dishes. Dessert is usually fruit and, of course, plenty of hot drinks. Evenings are a highlight in the mess tent: laughter, card games, and even a “world’s highest pub quiz” on one night. A heater keeps things cosy as the temperature drops outside.

Before bed, step outside to look up at the stars. With zero light pollution, Kilimanjaro offers one of the clearest night skies on Earth. A magical way to end the day.

Conclusion: The Real Rhythm of Kilimanjaro

This is what an ordinary day feels like on Kilimanjaro with Legend Expeditions. The combination of steady trekking, incredible food, expert support, and camp camaraderie makes every day special, long before you even reach the summit.

If you’d like to chat more about what it’s really like, or ask questions as you prepare for your own Kilimanjaro climb, you can [book a call with me here]. You don’t have to be climbing with us, I’m always happy to help adventurers get ready for the Roof of Africa.