The journey begins on Day 1 at Machame Gate (1,800m), where trekkers register and begin their hike through lush rainforest. This is a relatively steady but sometimes muddy climb that leads to Machame Camp (3,000m), offering the first night under the stars on the mountain.

On Day 2, the trail leaves the rainforest behind and enters moorland. The path climbs more steeply up a rocky ridge as the views open up. The day ends at Shira Camp (3,840m), situated on a high plateau with stunning views of Kibo Peak.

Day 3 is an important acclimatization day. Trekkers ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), which may bring on some signs of altitude sickness, and then descend to Barranco Camp (3,950m). This "climb high, sleep low" strategy helps the body adjust to the increasing altitude.

On Day 4, the route climbs the impressive Barranco Wall—a steep but manageable rock face—and continues through rolling alpine desert terrain to Karanga Camp (4,035m). This is a shorter hiking day, giving climbers time to rest and further acclimatize.