7 Days Machame Route
the machame route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. it is known for its stunning scenery and high success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile. the route typically takes around 6-7 days to complete, allowing for gradual altitude gain and better adaptation to the high altitude. The machame route starts at machame gate, located on the southern side of the Mount Kilimanjaro, and ascends through diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. along the way, climbers pass through iconic features such as the shira plateau, lava tower, and barranco wall. It is considered a challenging route, particularly due to its steep sections and high altitude, but it is also incredibly rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable experiences.
Day by Day Route
DAY 1:
ARRIVAL AND TRANSFER TO MOSHI.
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). After completing Immigration formalities, collect your baggage and walk out to meet with your guide for greetings and transfer to the accommodation planned for the first night. Moshi is a town located near the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Serves as a popular starting point for climbing expeditions to the summit of Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Moshi is known for its pleasant climate, with cool temperatures due to its elevation. The town is surrounded by lush, green scenery, including coffee plantations and the picturesque landscapes of Kilimanjaro National Park.
Day 2:
TREKKING FROM MACHAME GATE TO MACHAME CAMP
A guide will arrive at your hotel in the morning to meet you and hold a quick briefing before departing. Then you will drive to Kilimanjaro National Park’s entrance Gate of Machame for quick formality of acquiring climbing permits. The trek from Machame Gate to Machame Camp is the first leg of the popular Machame Route. Machame Route includes passage through a rainforest where tropical showers are highly probable, so we recommend you take not only spare clothes but also a raincoat.
The trail initially passes through dense rainforest, where you might spot various bird species and monkeys. The path can be steep and muddy in sections, so sturdy hiking boots are essential. After several hours of hiking, you’ll reach Machame Camp, your first overnight stop. The camp is situated in a scenic location with stunning views of the mountain. Here, you’ll rest, enjoy a hot meal prepared by your crew, and prepare for the next day’s trek.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours Distance: 5 km
Day 3:
TREKKING FROM MACHAME CAMP TO SHIRA CAMP
The trek usually starts early in the morning from Machame Camp, the trail ascends through the dense rainforest, offering a glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s rich biodiversity. As you gain altitude, the vegetation gradually changes, giving way to moorland. The terrain becomes more rugged, with rocky paths and steep sections. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Shira Plateau and the distant Mount Meru. After several hours of trekking, you’ll reach Shira Camp located on the Shira Plateau, a vast expanse of high-altitude desert. We will enjoy our lunch and some rest at the camp, followed by a short acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower Camp with a 400 m gain in altitude. Back down at Shira Camp, for hot dinner and overnight.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Day 4:
SHIRA CAMP TO BARRANCO CAMP VIA AN ASCENT TO THE LAVA TOWER.
After breakfast, you will start your hike adventure to Shira Camp and proceed to Lava Tower. The trek from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp is challenging due to rise-and-fall nature. However, reaching the 4,600 m altitude at the Lava Tower is crucial for proper acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. Here we you can enjoy the views of Barranco Wall. Despite the Wall’s seemingly daunting height and steepness the actual climb is rather simple and takes only an hour to two hours to complete.
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 11 km
Day 5:
TREKKING FROM BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP
On this day it is best to make an early start to avoid crowding on the way up Barranco Wall. Despite its intimidating appearance, it’s not a technical climb, meaning ropes or climbing equipment are not necessary. Instead, climbers use their hands and feet to scramble up the rocks, making it a challenging but manageable climb for most fit and determined trekkers. The views from the top of the wall are breathtaking, offering a stunning panorama of the surrounding landscape and a sense of accomplishment for those who conquer it.
A lunch break at Karanga Camp will be followed by an acclimatization hike towards the Barafu Camp 3,995 m, then hike back to Karanga Camp for the night.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Day 6:
TREKKING FROM KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP
In the morning, after breakfast, you will begin your hike to Barafu Summit Camp. It’s a test of endurance and determination as you gain altitude and prepare for the final push to Uhuru Peak. Along the way, you’ll feel the anticipation building as you approach Barafu Camp, the last stop before the summit attempt. It’s a memorable leg of the trek, filled with both physical and mental challenges, but ultimately rewarding as you inch closer to reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The camp will be set up ahead of time, so by the time you arrive your tents and sleeping bags will be already prepared. It is better to spend the remaining of the day resting and sleeping before the summit.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 6 km
Day 7:
SUMMITING ON UHURU PEAK AND DESCENT TO MILLENNIUM CAMP.
The summit day begins around midnight, as you make your way up to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro (5,895 m /19,336 f). At this high altitude, you may feel strenuous, therefore, every two climbers will be paired with a personal guide for the entire ascent to monitor their physical and wellbeing more closely. You may descend to the nearest glacier, after your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak. The sunrise views from the summit are breathtaking. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp and then continue down to Millennium Camp for the night.
The descent to Millennium Camp is a gradual journey back down through various ecological zones. You’ll pass through the alpine desert and moorland, then into the lush rainforest, where you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna. The descent can be challenging on the knees, so trekking poles are recommended.
Trekking time: 8-12 hours
Distance: 15 km
Day 8:
DESCENT FROM MILLENNIUM CAMP TO MWEKA GATE.
The final day of the trek involves a descent through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 12 km
Day 9:
DEPARTURE.
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your international flight back home departing at the stipulated time according to the return flight.
CLIMBING COST INCLUDES
CLIMBING COST EXCLUDES
ADVISE FROM OUR EXPERTS.
The Machame route is one of the most popular routes for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its scenic beauty and relatively high success rate. Here are some expert tips for trekking the Machame route:
Physical Preparation:
Kilimanjaro is a challenging trek, so it’s important to be physically prepared. Focus on cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking with a backpack to build endurance.
Acclimatization:
The Machame route offers good acclimatization opportunities with its gradual ascent. However, it’s still important to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and go at a pace that allows for proper acclimatization.
Gear:
Invest in good quality gear, especially a sturdy pair of hiking boots, warm clothing (including layers), a reliable sleeping bag, and a comfortable backpack. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Guided tours and Porter:
Consider going with a reputable guide service or tour operator experienced in leading treks on the Machame route. They can provide valuable assistance, support, safety measures, and help carry your gear, allowing you to focus on the trek itself.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well:
Proper hydration and nutrition are key to a successful trek. Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up.
Altitude Sickness:
Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and know how to manage it. The Machame route allows for a more gradual ascent, which can help reduce the risk, but it’s still important to be prepared.
Respect the Environment:
Kilimanjaro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s important to respect the environment. Follow the Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.
Travel Insurance
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation.
Enjoy the Experience:
Finally, remember to enjoy the journey! The Machame route offers stunning views and a unique trekking experience, so take the time to appreciate the beauty around you