Duration

7 Days 6 Nights

Country

Tanzania, United Republic of

Maximum Traveller

Min Pax

7 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

The 7-day Machame Route on Mount Kilimanjaro starts at Machame Gate (1,800 meters / 5,905 feet) with a gradual ascent through lush rainforest on day one. The trail winds through diverse terrain, offering glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s rich flora and fauna. By the end of the day, trekkers typically reach Machame Camp (3,010 meters / 9,875 feet), where they settle in for the night amidst the cool mountain air and prepare for the challenges ahead. This initial stage provides a gentle introduction to the trek while showcasing the natural beauty that surrounds Africa’s highest peak.

Overview
Itinerary
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Overview

The Machame Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular 7-day trek that offers adventurers a diverse and scenic journey to the summit. Beginning at Machame Gate (1,800 meters / 5,905 feet), the route ascends through varying ecosystems including lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert. Each day presents unique challenges and stunning landscapes, from navigating steep ridges to acclimatizing at strategically located campsites like Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, and Barafu Camp. The route allows ample time for acclimatization, increasing the chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa. Trekkers experience breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a sense of accomplishment as they conquer one of the world's most iconic mountains via this challenging yet rewarding route.

Itinerary

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Day 1
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Your adventure begins at the Machame Gate, located at 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level. After completing the necessary registration, you embark on a trek through the lush rainforest, where you might spot Colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The path can be muddy and slippery, so trekking poles and gaiters are recommended. After approximately 6-7 hours of hiking and covering about 11 kilometers (7 miles), you reach Machame Camp at 2,835 meters (9,300 feet). Here, you settle into your first campsite, nestled among the towering heathers and moss-covered trees.
Day 2
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
The day's trek begins with a steep ascent out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone. As you climb higher, the landscape changes dramatically with giant senecios and lobelias becoming more common. The path continues along a rocky ridge onto the Shira Plateau, providing your first glimpse of the summit. After about 5-6 hours and 5 kilometers (3 miles) of trekking, you arrive at Shira Camp, located at 3,750 meters (12,300 feet). The camp offers stunning views of Mount Meru and the expansive Shira Plateau.
Day 3
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
This acclimatization day involves a long trek to Barranco Camp, with an important detour to Lava Tower (4,630 meters / 15,190 feet) to help your body adjust to the altitude. The route first ascends to Lava Tower, where you have lunch and rest briefly. The trail then descends into the Barranco Valley, characterized by its distinctive Senecio and Lobelia plants. After 7-8 hours of trekking and covering 10 kilometers (6 miles), you reach Barranco Camp at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), surrounded by imposing cliffs and the towering Barranco Wall.
Day 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The day begins with the challenging but exhilarating climb of the Barranco Wall, often referred to as the "Breakfast Wall." This nearly vertical section requires some light scrambling but is not technically difficult. Once at the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views. The path then descends into the Karanga Valley and back up to Karanga Camp, at 4,035 meters (13,250 feet). This relatively short day, around 4-5 hours and 5 kilometers (3 miles) of trekking, helps with acclimatization and prepares you for the days ahead.
Day 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
The trek to Barafu Camp is a steady ascent, with the landscape becoming increasingly barren as you approach the alpine desert zone. The trail is relatively short, taking about 3-4 hours and covering 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), but the altitude makes it more challenging. Barafu Camp, at 4,640 meters (15,220 feet), serves as your base camp for the summit attempt. Here, you rest, eat, and prepare for the final ascent, which begins around midnight.
Day 6
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Summit day starts in the early hours, with a strenuous climb in the dark up to Stella Point (5,730 meters / 18,800 feet) on the crater rim. After a brief rest, you push on to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The sense of achievement as you reach the summit at sunrise is unparalleled. After taking photos and soaking in the views, you descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and then continue down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). This long, exhausting day involves 12-15 hours of trekking and covers 17 kilometers (10.5 miles).
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day involves a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. The trail is well-maintained but can be muddy and slippery. After about 3-4 hours and 10 kilometers (6 miles) of trekking, you reach the gate, where you receive your summit certificates. From here, you transfer back to Moshi, where a hot shower and a comfortable bed await, marking the end of your incredible Kilimanjaro adventure.

Cost Info

Price includes

All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Sleeping Mattress
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
All meals while on the Mountain
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Clean, purified drinking water
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate

Price excludes

Tanzania Visa
International and domestic flights
Hotel (available as an optional addon)
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)

FAQ

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What level of fitness is required to climb the Machame Route on Mount Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route requires a good level of physical fitness, but you don't need to be a professional athlete. The trek involves long days of walking and significant altitude gain, so stamina and cardiovascular fitness are important. It is recommended to train with long hikes, cardiovascular exercises, and strength training several months before your climb. Additionally, the ability to acclimatize to high altitudes plays a crucial role in successfully reaching the summit.
What should I pack for the Machame Route trek?
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful climb. Key items include:
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
- Warm clothing, including thermal layers, a down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer
- A good quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- A daypack and a larger backpack for your porter to carry
- Hydration system (water bottles or a hydration bladder)
- Snacks and energy bars
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Camera or smartphone for photos It’s important to pack in layers to adjust to the varying temperatures you will encounter on the climb.
What is the best time of year to climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route?
The best times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons, which are from late June to October and from late December to February. During these periods, the weather is more stable, and the trails are less muddy, providing better hiking conditions. However, the mountain can be climbed year-round, but climbers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, including rain and cold temperatures, particularly during the wet seasons.
How do I deal with altitude sickness on the Machame Route?
Altitude sickness is a common concern for climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro. To minimize the risk, it is important to:
- Ascend slowly and allow your body to acclimatize gradually
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Eat regularly, even if you don't feel hungry
- Take rest days as planned in your itinerary
- Follow your guide's advice regarding pacing and acclimatization
- Consider taking medication like Diamox (acetazolamide) to help prevent altitude sickness, but consult your doctor beforehand Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If symptoms become severe, it is crucial to descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Is it necessary to hire a guide and porters for the Machame Route?
Yes, it is mandatory to hire a licensed guide to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and most trekkers also hire porters to carry their gear. The guides are knowledgeable about the terrain, weather conditions, and proper acclimatization techniques, which greatly increase your chances of a successful summit. Porters carry heavy gear, food, and equipment, allowing you to focus on the climb with a lighter daypack. Hiring guides and porters also supports the local economy and provides employment opportunities for the Tanzanian people.

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from ~~$2,530.00~~ $2,160.00

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