OVERVIEW
The Machame route is our most popular and successful route leading to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Hikers sleep in tents which are carried up the mountain by support crews. The Machame route is a very scenic and beautiful route, which can be completed in 6 days, however we strongly recommend hiking the route in 7 days, allowing for more time to acclimatise. The key to the success of the Machame route is its topography, allowing hikers to climb high and sleep low, helping towards better acclimatisation. There are however two drawbacks on this route: Firstly hikers will need to pass an area just before the Shira ridge and hike the Barranco Wall, both of which are physically demanding and also present a potential problem for hikers with a fear of heights. The second problem relates to the route’s high success rate, compounded by the fact that other routes join the Machame route from day 3 onwards – higher numbers of hikers can be therefore be encountered on this route. The route utilises the Mweka route as a descend route.
DAY TO DAY ACTIVITIES
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Start at Machame Gate with registration and briefing. Hike through lush, moss-draped rainforest alive with birdsong and the occasional sighting of black-and-white colobus monkeys. The trail is often muddy and rooty as it climbs steadily along narrow paths. Reach Machame Camp on the edge of the forest zone where the trees give way to giant heathers and the first views of Kibo’s glacier-capped summit. Enjoy your first night on the mountain with dinner under starry skies.
-Elevation: 5,380 ft / 1,640 m → 9,350 ft / 2,850 m
-Distance: ~11 km / 7 miles
-Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
-Habitat: Rainforest
-Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
-Accommodation: Machame Camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp
Climb out of the forest into open moorland with giant heathers, rocky outcrops, and wide views. The trail is steep and gains altitude quickly, with sections of volcanic rock and panoramic vistas of Kibo and the Shira Plateau. After lunch en route or at camp, explore nearby Shira Cave for photo opportunities. Sunset on the plateau is often spectacular, illuminating Kilimanjaro’s summit cone in glowing shades of pink and gold.
-Elevation: 9,350 ft / 2,850 m → 12,500 ft / 3,810 m
-Distance: ~5 km / 3 miles
-Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
-Habitat: Moorland
-Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
-Accommodation: Shira Cave Camp
Day 3: Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
-A classic acclimatization day following the mantra “climb high, sleep low.” Trek east across the plateau toward the stark Lava Tower at 4,630 m. The landscape becomes an alpine desert of volcanic boulders and minimal vegetation. After lunch at Lava Tower, descend through scenic valleys with giant groundsels and senecios to reach the dramatic Barranco Camp beneath the imposing Barranco Wall. This descent is excellent for acclimatization and a highlight of the Machame Route.
-Elevation: 12,500 ft / 3,810 m → 15,190 ft / 4,630 m (Lava Tower), down to 12,960 ft / 3,950 m
-Distance: ~10 km / 6 miles
-Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
-Habitat: Alpine Desert
-Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
-Accommodation: Barranco Camp.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp (via Karanga Valley)
-An extra-challenging day! Begin with an exciting scramble up the Barranco Wall, where switchbacks climb steeply with breathtaking views back to the camp and glaciers overhead. Traverse ridges and descend into the Karanga Valley, then climb out again to connect with the main trail. After a brief rest and lunch stop at Karanga, continue ascending steadily over barren, dusty alpine desert to reach Barafu Camp by late afternoon. You’ll be tired but rewarded with commanding views over the plains below and the summit above. Early dinner and early bedtime, as your summit push begins tonight!
-Elevation: 12,960 ft / 3,950 m → 15,331 ft / 4,673 m
-Distance: ~9 km / 5.5 miles
-Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
-Habitat: Alpine Desert
-Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
-Accommodation: Barafu Camp.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
-Wake around midnight for tea and biscuits before your summit attempt. Trek by headlamp over cold, steep scree to Stella Point (5,756 m) in time for sunrise—a golden glow over glaciers and vast plains. From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate with photos and awe-inspiring views of the crater, glaciers, and beyond. After a short rest, descend carefully back to Barafu Camp for a meal and rest. Then continue the long descent down to the greener air of Mweka Camp for a well-earned sleep.
-Elevation: 15,331 ft / 4,673 m → 19,341 ft / 5,895 m → 10,065 ft / 3,070 m
-Distance: ~17 km / 10.5 miles
-Hiking Time: 12–16 hours
-Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
-Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
-Accommodation: Mweka Camp.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
-Your final hike descends gently through the lush rainforest filled with birdlife and colobus monkeys. The trail can be muddy and slippery but offers a cool, green farewell. At Mweka Gate, sign out, receive your summit certificates, and celebrate with your team. Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower and relaxation—you did it!
-Distance: ~10 km / 6 miles
-Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
-Habitat: Rainforest
-Meals: Breakfast
WHAT INCLUDED IN PACKAGE
-Bed and Breakfast, all transfer and all stated in the itinerary including entrance fees.
-The right is reserved to substitute hotels when necessary, for those described in this package.
