The Machame route stands out as one of Kilimanjaro’s most picturesque and favored paths. This route guides trekkers through stunning forests, up a ridge into moorland zones, and onto the expansive Shira Plateau. From there, it winds below the imposing Southern Ice fields before merging with the Barafu Route for the final push to the summit. With its gradual incline and longer duration, this route boasts a higher success rate for reaching the peak.
Duration: 7 days
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: High
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed and taken to the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel for an overnight stay at the esteemed 4-star bed and breakfast. Your head guide will meet you to provide a detailed briefing, conduct a gear check, and assist you in renting any necessary equipment for your upcoming expedition.
DAY 1: MACHAME GATE – MACHAME CAMP: 10.75K /7MI | 5-6 HRS | RAINFOREST
Elevation: 1811m/5942ft to 3021m/9911ft
Altitude gained: 1210m
Departing from Moshi, a short 45-minute drive will lead you through the charming Village of Machame to the entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Here we shall sign up, get a permit, and begin our hiking adventure. Delight in the lush rainforest scenery and meandering trails, where your guide will enlighten you about the indigenous flora, fauna, and wildlife. Expect muddy and slippery trails, making gaiters and trekking poles essential tools for a safe and enjoyable trek.
DAY 2: MACHAME CAMP – SHIRA CAMP: 5.3KM/3MI | 4-5HRS | MOORLAND
Elevation: 3021m/9911ft to 3839m/12,595ft
Altitude gained: 818m
After breakfast, we depart from the lush rainforest and progress along a rising trail, traversing the valley via a steep rocky ridge. The path then veers west, leading us through a river gorge until we reach the Shira campsite. Dinner and overnight at Shira Camp.
DAY 3: SHIRA CAMP – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP: 10.75KM/6MI | 5-6HRS | SEMI-DESERT
Elevation: 3839m/12,595ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 147m
Today is a crucial day for acclimatisation as we shall be climbing high and coming back to sleep in Barranco Camp camp almost the same elevation as Shira Camp. Departing from Shira Plateau, we proceed eastward along a ridge, passing the junction leading to the Kibo peak. Our journey then shifts southeast towards the impressive Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elevation 4650m/15,250ft). Following the Lava Tower, we encounter a second junction directing towards the Arrow Glacier. Subsequently, we descend to our overnight stop at Barranco Camp, marking the end of today’s trek. Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP: 5.2KM/3MI | 3-4HRS | ALPINE DESERT
Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
Altitude gained: 48m
Following breakfast, our journey proceeds along a steep ridge, leading us to the Barranco Wall, a challenging yet thrilling ascent. We navigate the Barranco Wall with the aid of our experienced crew, showcasing their prowess, agility, and strength as they maneuver over this imposing obstacle with apparent ease. Our trail leads us through river valleys, large rocks and hills and after descending and ascending Karanga River valley we shall finally be at Karanga Camp. Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.
DAY 5: HIKE KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 3.3KM /2 MI | 3-4HRS | ALPINE DESERT
Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 628m
After breakfast, our journey progresses upwards towards Barafu Camp. This segment showcases an array of awe-inspiring perspectives of the summit from various vantage points along the way. Upon our arrival at Barafu Camp, we indulge in an early dinner and prioritize rest in anticipation of the epic summit night ahead.
DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT: 4.86KM /3MI UP | 5-7HRS | – MWEKA CAMP: 11.5KM /7.2MI DOWN | 5-6HRS | GLACIERS, SNOW CAPPED SUMMIT
Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1233m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m
Anticipation and excitement mount as the morning arrives, signaling the start of our summit push with an early departure between midnight and 2 a.m. This phase of the trek is regarded as the most mentally and physically demanding, testing our resilience and determination to overcome the formidable challenges that lie ahead. The journey towards the summit will require unwavering focus, inner strength, and sheer willpower to conquer this pinnacle of the trek.
We will ascend through challenging scree terrain progressing in a switchback pattern toward Stella Point on the crater rim in a northwesterly direction. Upon reaching Stella Point, a brief respite offers the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunrise. For swifter climbers, catching the sunrise from the summit is a possibility. The remaining part of the journey is likely to be through snow-covered zone.
Congratulations on your remarkable achievement! Step by step, you have successfully reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa. Your perseverance, determination, and resilience have culminated in this awe-inspiring accomplishment. Take a moment to savor the incredible feat you have accomplished and the breathtaking views that surround you at this iconic summit. Well done on reaching Uhuru Peak!
Pause for a few precious moments to soak in the magnitude of reaching Uhuru Peak and commence the steep descent towards Mweka Camp, with a brief stop at Barafu for lunch and a quick break. Dinner and overnight at Mweka Camp.
DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI: 9.1KM/6MI |3-4HRS | RAINFOREST
Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m
Following breakfast and a genuinely moving ceremony of gratitude and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to bid farewell. Our journey entails descending to the Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your well-earned summit certificates. As the weather shifts to noticeably warmer temperatures, the terrain transitions to wet, muddy, and steep pathways. To navigate these conditions effectively, we highly recommend the use of gaiters and trekking poles for added stability and support.
Upon reaching the Mweka Park Gate, a vehicle will be waiting for you at Mweka village to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, roughly a 30-minute drive away. Once back at your hotel, indulge in a well-deserved hot shower to refresh and rejuvenate. Following that, savor a delicious dinner and revel in joyous celebrations to commemorate your extraordinary accomplishment. Enjoy this moment of relaxation and reflection after the exhilarating journey up Mount Kilimanjaro.
You will spend the night at the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, a luxurious 4-star accommodation offering delightful bed and breakfast services. This provides you with a comfortable and restful stay before you embark on your journey back home, a thrilling safari adventure, or a relaxing trip to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Take this time to unwind, reflect on your incredible achievement, and prepare for the next chapter of your adventure in Tanzania.