Complete Guide to Barafu Camp on Mount Kilimanjaro
Barafu Camp is the crucial final camp before climbers attempt to summit Mount Kilimanjaro at Uhuru Peak. Located at an altitude of about 4,673 meters (15,331 feet), Barafu — meaning "ice" in Swahili — is a cold, rugged, and windswept place where trekkers spend a few precious hours resting and preparing for their midnight summit push.
This campsite marks the transition between the hard work of the ascent and the emotional, physical test of the summit night. Conditions at Barafu are harsh: freezing temperatures, thin air, and strong winds are common. However, the views from Barafu Camp are breathtaking, offering a dramatic preview of Kibo Peak and Mawenzi Peak under starlit skies. Proper preparation at Barafu Camp is key to a safe and successful climb to the Roof of Africa.
Where is Barafu Camp Located?
Barafu Camp is perched high on a rocky ridge at an elevation of approximately 4,673 meters (15,331 feet). It is situated on the southeast side of Kibo, the highest volcanic cone of Mount Kilimanjaro. Trekkers reach Barafu via routes like Machame, Lemosho, and Umbwe, following Karanga Camp. From Barafu, climbers make their final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
What to Expect at Barafu Camp
Conditions at Barafu Camp are tough, and trekkers need to be ready for an environment unlike any other camp on Kilimanjaro:
- Altitude: 4,673 meters (15,331 feet)
- Facilities: No permanent structures; tents are pitched directly on rocky, uneven ground
- Toilets: Basic long-drop style toilets or portable toilets provided by tour companies
- Temperature: Freezing cold, with nighttime temperatures often well below 0°C (32°F)
- Landscape: Rocky, barren, exposed, with incredible views of Mawenzi Peak
Despite the difficult environment, Barafu Camp is one of the most awe-inspiring places on the mountain, offering a sense of both excitement and anxiety as climbers prepare to summit.
The Importance of Barafu Camp for Summit Success
Barafu Camp is your final launching pad for Kilimanjaro’s summit. Climbers typically arrive at Barafu in the early afternoon, have an early dinner, and then rest in their tents for a few hours before being woken around 11:00 PM or midnight to begin the summit attempt.
Resting at Barafu, hydrating, and mentally preparing yourself are vital. Because of the camp’s high altitude and exposed location, trekkers often experience difficulty sleeping — but even lying quietly and breathing slowly helps the body recover energy for the grueling night ahead.
Climbing from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
The summit attempt typically begins around midnight. Climbers hike steep switchbacks up loose scree slopes by headlamp, facing freezing temperatures and strong winds. The goal is to reach Stella Point by sunrise, where climbers often see spectacular views of the African plains below, bathed in golden light.
From Stella Point, it’s about another 45–60 minutes along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet). The entire push from Barafu Camp to the summit and back can take 10–14 hours, making it the most exhausting but rewarding day on the mountain.
Weather Conditions at Barafu Camp
Expect extreme and unpredictable weather at Barafu Camp:
- Daytime: Bright but cold, with occasional snow or sleet
- Nighttime: Freezing with temperatures often dipping below -10°C (14°F)
- Wind: Strong gusts, especially in the evenings and nights
- Visibility: Can change rapidly with fog and snowstorms
Tips for Staying Comfortable at Barafu Camp
- Use a high-quality sleeping bag rated for extreme cold
- Wear multiple thermal layers even when sleeping
- Keep water bottles inside your sleeping bag to prevent freezing
- Eat a good early dinner, even if you feel tired or have no appetite
- Organize summit gear before resting to save time when waking up
Fun Facts About Barafu Camp
- “Barafu” means "ice" in Swahili, referencing the freezing conditions at this altitude.
- From Barafu, you can see both Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Peak — two of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones.
- Many trekkers say the hours spent at Barafu Camp before summit night are the most nerve-wracking moments of the entire Kilimanjaro journey.
Conclusion: Why Barafu Camp is Critical for Kilimanjaro Climbers
Barafu Camp is not just another campsite — it’s the last stronghold before your final push to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The rocky terrain, freezing temperatures, and thin air test every climber"s preparation and willpower. Spending time resting, hydrating, and mentally preparing at Barafu greatly increases your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Those final hours at Barafu, staring up at the star-filled sky, are among the most memorable moments of any Kilimanjaro adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do you stay at Barafu Camp before summit night?
Trekkers usually arrive in the afternoon, rest for a few hours, and begin the summit attempt around midnight.
What time does the summit push from Barafu Camp start?
The climb usually starts between 11:00 PM and 1:00 AM, depending on your guide’s plan and weather conditions.
Is there water at Barafu Camp?
Water is scarce. Porters often bring water from lower camps or melt snow when available. Trekkers must conserve water carefully.
Can you see the summit from Barafu Camp?
Yes, on clear days, you can clearly see the upper slopes leading to Uhuru Peak and the Southern Icefields from Barafu Camp.
How cold is it at Barafu Camp?
Temperatures regularly drop well below freezing at night, sometimes reaching as low as -10°C (14°F) or colder.