Description.
Embark on an exhilarating trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, journeying through diverse landscapes from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, culminating in a summit at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. This challenging yet rewarding adventure offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience for adventurers of all levels.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, you'll meet your guide for a trek briefing and equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear, with the option to rent any missing items.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Elevation: 1,790m to 3,010m
Distance: 10.8km / 6.7mi
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After a one-hour drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, we complete park formalities and meet our porters. The trail ascends steadily through the dense rainforest, offering magnificent views. The path can be overgrown and muddy, making the terrain challenging at times. We finish the day at Machame Camp.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Elevation: 3,010m to 3,845m
Distance: 5.4km / 3.4mi
Hiking Time: 5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
We continue our ascent through the forest, eventually reaching the steep climb onto the Shira Plateau. The plateau offers rewarding views of Kilimanjaro’s peak, and, looking back, you'll catch glimpses of Mt. Meru towering over Arusha town in the distance. We end the day at Shira Camp.
Day 4: Shira Cave to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,845m to 3,960m
Distance: 10.8km / 6.7mi
Hiking Time: 8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Today’s trek takes us across high moorland, transforming the landscape as we traverse Kilimanjaro’s southwest side. Passing beneath the Lava Tower and Western Breach, we climb to an altitude of 4,600m before descending to Barranco Camp. This "walk high, sleep low" strategy helps with acclimatization.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,640m
Distance: 8.5km / 5.3mi
Hiking Time: 8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The day begins with a descent into the Great Barranco, followed by a challenging climb up the Barranco Wall. Though non-technical, the ascent is long and tiring. We pass beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers before reaching Karanga Valley, our final stop for fresh water. From here, we trek through a barren landscape of scree, leading us to Barafu Camp.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak & Down to Millennium Camp
Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (descent to 3,790m)
Distance: 13.4km / 8.3mi
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic
We begin our summit push at midnight, climbing steep scree for 4-5 hours towards the glaciers. Reaching Stella Point (5,739m) at sunrise, we are treated to breathtaking views of ice cliffs, Mawenzi Peak, and beyond. Another hour’s trek brings us to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, we descend to Barafu Camp for breakfast before continuing to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,790m to 1,630m
Distance: 12.1km / 7.5mi
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
A gentle descent through the lush rainforest leads us to Mweka Gate, where we complete park formalities and receive our well-deserved certificates. We are then met by our vehicles and head back to Moshi for a hot shower and relaxation at the hotel.
Day 8: Depart Tanzania
After the trek, the day is yours to relax before your flight home. Depending on your schedule, you can explore Moshi town and pick up some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Optional safari, Zanzibar, or other add-ons are available if you wish to extend your adventure.
Machame Route Kilimanjaro
Personal service
We offer personalized advice, using our extensive experience to ensure your safari is perfect for you.
Our own vehicles
We use our own well-maintained safari vehicles, ensuring safety, comfort, and the best wildlife viewing.
Flexible Pricing
We offer options for every budget, from affordable adventures to luxurious, tailor-made safaris.
Our local tour operators
Our own local tour operators know Tanzania inside and out, providing authentic and knowledgeable experiences.