Embark on an unforgettable adventure via the Machame route, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and successful summit ascents. This route provides an opportunity to sleep in tents, expertly transported by our support crews. While the Machame route can be completed in six days, we highly recommend a seven-day itinerary for optimal acclimatization. The route’s unique topography allows hikers to ascend to higher altitudes and then rest at lower ones, significantly enhancing the acclimatization process.
Trip Highlights
- MACHAME GATE
- MACHAME CAMP
- SHIRA CAMP
- BARRANCO CAMP
- KARANGA CAMP
- BARAFU CAMP
- UHURU PEAK
- MWEKA CAMP
- MWEKA GATE
Travel Itinerary
Conquer Africa’s highest peak through the scenic Machame Route — a 7-day trek designed for both adventure and acclimatization. Journey from lush rainforest trails and moorland ridges to alpine deserts and the icy summit of Uhuru Peak. Each day reveals new landscapes, from the vibrant wildlife near Machame Gate to the breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. With expert guides, comfortable camps, and steady altitude adaptation, this route offers the perfect balance of challenge, safety, and unforgettable beauty — culminating in the ultimate Kilimanjaro summit experience.
Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
Distance: 11 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart from Moshi to Machame Gate to start the Machame Route.
The trail winds its way through lush rainforest, allowing glimpses of Kilimanjaro through the canopy.
Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including blue monkeys.
The path leads to Machame Camp where we'll rest for the night.
Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,600 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
We ascend through the moorland, gaining elevation and enjoying panoramic views of Kibo and Shira Plateau. The trail takes us to Shira Camp, providing a stunning backdrop for our overnight stay.
Elevation: 12,600 ft to 12,950 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert
Today, we navigate the rocky terrain of the Lava Tower and descend into the Barranco Valley. This acclimatization hike aids in adapting to higher altitudes. Barranco Camp, nestled in a valley below the imposing Barranco Wall, is our next resting place.
Elevation: 12,950 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After conquering the Barranco Wall, we traverse the glacial valleys of Karanga. This shorter trek allows for acclimatization and offers breathtaking views of the southern glacier.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Continuing our ascent, we approach the Barafu Camp. This high-altitude base camp offers mesmerizing views of the summit. Rest and prepare for the final push.
Elevation (Barafu to Uhuru Peak): 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles ascent, 12 km/7 miles descent
Hiking Time (Summit): 6-8 hours
Hiking Time (Descent): 5-7 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Rain Forest
A challenging ascent awaits as we embark for Uhuru Peak. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. After celebrating our achievement, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
The final leg of our journey leads us through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle awaits to transfer us back to Moshi for a well-earned celebration.
Embark on this extraordinary 7-day adventure, ensuring optimal acclimatization for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro summit experience.
Inclusions/Exclusions
Inclusions
- 2 Night Hotel accommodation in Moshi, a day before trek and a day after trek
- Transportation to and from your selected route
- Airport transfer
- Quality, Waterproof, four-season private mountain sleeping tent
- Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
- Certified, experienced, English speaking mountain guides
- Park Fees
- Government Climbing Taxes
- Climbing permits
- All hot Meals prepared by our cook while on Mountain
- Guides, Porters and Cook Salaries
- Fair and ethical treatment of Porters
- Enough porters to carry your luggage
- Safety Equipment
- Pulse Ox meter
- Hot drinks at every meal
- Water provided on climb, mineral water for the first day and boiled water every day
- Emergency rescue fees
- Personal Summit Certificate signed by the National Park and your Guide
- All Accommodations in full board basis.
- Transport in a 4WD, 4×4 safari jeep with pop up roof.
- Professional English - Speaking Guide
- Mineral water
- All airport transfer
- Ngorongoro Crater
- All activities as indicated on program
- All park fees and concession fees
- Olduvai gorge, Maasai boma
- All government fees
- Flying Doctors insurance & evacuation.
Exclusions
- International airfares and departure taxes
- Personal items and toiletries
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, laundry services, and visa and international flight ticket fees
- Private portable mobile toilet with a tent on the mountain
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook (Tipping guide: 10-20$US for Porter, 15-25$US for Cook, 20-30$US for Guide, per day and per group)
