The Machame route is the most visually stunning and attractive way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, surpassing other routes in its appeal. It’s perfect for adventurous hikers seeking a more physically demanding challenge than the Marangu or Rongai routes, offering an exhilarating ascent surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Despite its high difficulty and physical demands, the Machame route remains the top choice among climbers, providing ample support and assistance throughout the journey to Kilimanjaro’s summit.
8 Days
When you arrive, you'll be welcomed at Kilimanjaro International Airport and taken to Moshi, the starting point for Mount Kilimanjaro. You'll stay at your base hotel in either Moshi or Arusha city, where an experienced mountain guide will provide accommodation and give you detailed trekking briefings. This will include all the necessary preparations before you embark on your incredible journey to reach the top of Africa's highest peak.
The hike from Machame Gate to Machame Camp covers a distance of 11 kilometres or 7 miles, with an elevation gain from 5,380 feet to 9,350 feet. This part of the journey usually takes 5 to 7 hours and is characterized by a dense rainforest environment. Starting from Moshi, the group will head to Machame Gate, a journey that takes less than an hour, passing through charming Machame villages nestled on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro Mountain. Upon arrival, after completing all necessary registration and briefing procedures, we will leave the park gate and begin our hike through the thick rainforest, following meandering trails until we reach our destination at Machame Camp.
During the trek from Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp, you will cover a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles and ascend from 9,350 feet to 12,500 feet. This part of the hike usually takes 4 to 6 hours and is characterized by a heath habitat. The journey continues from the rainforest clearings with an uphill climb along a steep, rocky ridge, gradually leading to the vast Shira Plateau. Along the route, you will pass through heather and open moorlands, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Crossing a significant river gorge signals the final phase of the journey before reaching Shira 2 Camp.
Trekking from Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower covers a distance of 7 kilometres or 4 miles, with an elevation gain from 12,500 feet to 15,190 feet. This journey usually takes 4 to 5 hours and features an alpine desert habitat. We start by heading east along a ridge and then veer southeast toward Lava Tower, a significant volcanic rock formation at 15,190 feet. After descending from Lava Tower, we make our way to Barranco Camp through the unique and visually striking Senecio Forest, reaching an altitude of 13,000 feet. Although we start and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at a higher altitude helps with acclimatization, preparing us for the challenges ahead.
The trek from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp spans 5 kilometres or 3 miles, with a slight elevation gain from 13,044 feet to 13,106 feet. This part of the journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours and is characterized by an alpine desert habitat. Our day starts with a descent into a ravine, then navigating to the base of the imposing Great Barranco Wall. We then ascend the non-technical but steep cliff, climbing nearly 900 feet to reach the highest point of the Barranco Wall. After that, we traverse several hills and valleys until we sharply descend into Karanga Valley. With one final steep climb, we reach Karanga Camp. This relatively shorter day is designed explicitly for acclimatization, allowing us to adjust to the altitude and prepare for the challenges ahead.
The trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp covers a distance of 4 kilometres or 2 miles, with an elevation gain from 13,106 feet to 15,331 feet. This part of the hike typically takes 4 to 5 hours and is characterized by an alpine desert habitat. Starting from Karanga, we move towards the junction that connects with the Mweka climbing Trail. As we continue our ascent, we traverse rocky terrain until we reach Barafu Hut later in the day. Upon arrival, you will have completed the Southern Circuit, which provides breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro summit from various perspectives. We prepare for the summit after setting up camp and enjoying an early dinner. From Barafu camp, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of Mawenzi and Kibo, two prominent Kilimanjaro peaks, inspiring the summit ascent.
Distance approx. 160 km; driving time approx. 2-3 hours. After a relaxing breakfast, you will be chauffeured back to Arusha, arriving around noon. You will be dropped off in the city centre or at the airport.
The descent from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate covers a distance of 10 kilometres or 6 miles, with a drop in elevation from 10,065 feet to 5,380 feet. This final stretch usually takes 3 to 4 hours and is characterized by a dense rainforest environment. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, we receive our well-earned certificates for successfully summiting the mountain. The trails at this lower altitude may be slippery and muddy, presenting a final challenge for our trek. After leaving the gate, we continue for an additional hour until we reach Mweka Village, where vehicles are ready to take us back to a base hotel in Moshi, marking the end of our unforgettable Kilimanjaro expedition.
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