Join us for an exhilarating journey up Kilimanjaro's Machame Route, a thrilling adventure that unveils the mountain's breathtaking beauty. As you ascend through dense rainforests, vast moorlands, and iconic glaciers, the Machame Route offers a challenging yet rewarding path to the summit.
Our seasoned guides, backed by a remarkable 99% summit success rate across all routes, lead you through this iconic trek. The Machame Route promises not only panoramic vistas and diverse ecosystems but also an unparalleled sense of achievement. At Summit Expeditions, we invite you to be part of this extraordinary adventure, where the Machame Route's untamed beauty becomes the backdrop to your summit triumph on
TRIP ACTIVITY
Expedition
ACTIVITY RATING
Moderate
SKILL RATING
No Experience
DURATION
9 Days
DESTINATION
Tanzania
GROUP SIZE
12
Tour Highlights
Enjoy awe-inspiring views on Kilimanjaro's scenic route
Journey through varied landscapes from rainforests to glaciers
Tick off your mountain bucket list on this iconic ascent
Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to a comfortable lodge in Moshi. This picturesque town, nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, will serve as your base for the night. Take this opportunity to relax, unwind, and acclimatize to the local environment.
In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where you’ll meet your guides and fellow adventurers. This session is crucial for addressing any last-minute queries and ensuring you’re fully equipped for the journey ahead.
DAY 2: MOSHI TO MACHAME CAMP
Your adventure begins with a transfer from Moshi to the Machame Gate, where you’ll register for the climb. From there, you’ll embark on the trek to Machame Camp, located at an altitude of 2,835 meters. This day’s hike covers approximately 11 kilometers and takes around 5-7 hours to complete.
You’ll trek through lush rainforest, a habitat rich in flora and fauna, including colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife. The day concludes at Machame Camp, where you’ll rest and spend the night amidst the tranquil forest.
DAY 3: MACHAME CAMP TO SHIRA CAMP
Today, you’ll ascend from Machame Camp to Shira Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,840 meters. The trail covers 5 kilometers and takes about 4-6 hours to complete.
As you ascend, the rainforest gives way to the heath zone, characterized by its moorland vegetation. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the imposing Kibo peak.
The day ends at Shira Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude.
DAY 4: SHIRA CAMP TO BARRANCO CAMP
Your journey continues as you trek from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp, located at 3,960 meters above sea level. This day’s trek covers 10 kilometers and takes around 6-8 hours.
You’ll traverse the Shira Plateau, enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Great Rift Valley and Mount Meru. As you approach Barranco Camp, the imposing Barranco Wall comes into view, setting the stage for the next day’s climb. Overnight at Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the towering wall.
DAY 5: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP
Today involves a challenging ascent up the Barranco Wall, followed by a trek to Karanga Camp at 3,995 meters. This section covers approximately 5 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours.
Conquering the Barranco Wall, also known as the “Breakfast Wall,” is a thrilling experience that requires some scrambling. Beyond the wall, the trail undulates through the alpine desert, offering stunning views of the southern glaciers. You’ll spend the night at Karanga Camp, a crucial stop for acclimatization.
DAY 6: KARANGA CAMP TO KOSOVO CAMP
Ascend from Karanga Camp to Kosovo Camp (4,800m), bypassing Barafu Camp. This special high-altitude camp, accessible to only a few companies with permits, offers a shorter summit night and increases your chances of success. The hike is approximately 4 kilometers and takes about 3-4 hours.
Overnight at Kosovo Camp, preparing for the summit attempt.
DAY 7: KOSOVO CAMP TO UHURU PEAK TO MWEKA CAMP
Your summit day begins in the early hours, as you embark on the final ascent to Uhuru Peak from Kosovo Camp. The advantage of starting from Kosovo Camp is that it shortens the climb to the summit, allowing for a more manageable ascent. With headlamps lighting the way, you’ll navigate the steep slopes and traverse the snow-covered paths as you make your way to Stella Point. This stretch of the climb is the most challenging, both physically and mentally, but the thought of reaching the summit keeps you motivated.
Upon reaching Stella Point at the crater rim, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise, casting a golden glow over the vast landscape below. From Stella Point, it’s a relatively gentle climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Standing at the summit, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the panoramic views, capture the moment with photographs, and reflect on the incredible journey that brought you to this point.
After spending some time at the summit, you’ll begin the descent back to Kosovo Camp for a short rest and to pack up your gear. Then, you’ll continue descending to Mweka Camp, located at 3,080 meters. This part of the descent covers a distance of approximately 12 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours. The descent can be tough on the knees, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views along the way make it worthwhile.
Upon reaching Mweka Camp, you’ll have your final night on the mountain. It’s a time for celebration, reflection, and rest, as you reminisce about the challenges you’ve overcome and the memories you’ve created during your journey to the roof of Africa.
DAY 8: MWEKA CAMP TO MOSHI
On the final day of trekking, you’ll descend from Mweka Camp to the Mweka Gate, covering 10 kilometers in about 3-4 hours.
Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your well-earned summit certificates and bid farewell to your mountain crew. A transfer will take you back to the lodge in Moshi, where you can enjoy a hot shower and a celebratory meal with your fellow climbers.
DAY 9: DEPARTURE FROM KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
After an unforgettable adventure, you’ll be transferred from the lodge to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. As you say goodbye to the majestic Kilimanjaro, you’ll carry with you memories of the incredible journey you’ve completed and the friendships forged along the way.
*Please note that this itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and individual pace. Our experienced guides will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek, making adjustments as necessary.
Tour Package Details
What’s Included?
Not Included
- Summit Expeditions team liaison pre-trek.
- Qualified and experienced English-speaking mountain guides during the trek.
- Support team, including chef(s) providing fresh meals and personal porters for duffel bags.
- Special permit to stay at Kosovo Camp pre-summit.
- Full board expedition with three meals daily, including a celebration dinner post-summit.
- Unlimited filtered water, hot drinks (tea, coffee, and hot chocolate) throughout the trek.
- Private team toilet tents at all camps.
- Premium hotel/lodge in Moshi pre/post trek.
- Individual all weather tents during the trek.
- Transfers to/from the airport.
- All road transport within the itinerary.
- All entrance fees and trekking permits.
- First aid equipment for mountain emergencies.
- Comprehensive pre-trip support to ensure readiness for the trek.
- Training advice to prepare for the physical challenge of Mt Kilimanjaro.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP
- Airfare to Kilimanjaro Airport.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Purchase or rental of personal gear.
- Tips for porters (budget $300).
- Drinks and snacks not included in the package.
- General spending money.
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