Crater Camp
Elevation: 5,730 meters above sea level
Crater Camp is a bare, open spot near the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, used as an overnight resting place. It’s not the same as Kibo Huts—it has no buildings, not even a toilet. The ground is just loose gravel and scree, with nothing built because it’s so high up on Kibo, the tallest volcanic cone of the mountain. Setting up a tent here takes extra work due to the rocky surface, but it’s worth it for the incredible views. From this spot, you can look out over a wide, surreal plateau at the top of Africa’s highest peak. It’s a special place for climbers who want to sleep near the summit, especially those coming up the Western Breach Route. However, staying here costs more because it’s steep, there are no tents provided, and water isn’t available—you have to carry everything.
Location & Weather
What It’s Like on Lemosho
On a 9-day Lemosho trek that includes Crater Camp, you reach it after climbing from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak. The push to the summit starts in the dark, early in the morning, and it’s the toughest part of the trip—both for your body and your mind. You climb steadily up steep, thick scree for hours, taking short breaks, until you hit Stella Point on the crater rim. From there, you can see the summit sign in the distance.
The path follows the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest spot in Africa. After soaking in the moment, you drop down a short way to Crater Camp. The crew meets you there to set up tents. If you’ve got energy, you might hike to Reutsch Crater or the ash pit, or just wander near the Furtwangler Glacier. Sleeping at this height can be rough, and if you’re not used to the altitude, serious sickness can kick in—guides keep a close watch to make sure you’re okay.
The next day, you leave Crater Camp and head straight down to Mweka Camp. The descent is long and hard on your legs, with rough ground that calls for trekking poles. You stop at Barafu for lunch along the way. Mweka Camp is lower, in the forest, where mist or rain might roll in by afternoon. That night, you enjoy your last meal on the mountain and get some well-earned rest.
Crater Camp is a wild, empty place—cold, high, and close to the top, offering a rare chance to sleep near Kilimanjaro’s summit with nothing but snow and sky around you.