7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – Machame Route
ClIMBING OVERVIEW
DAY 1: MACHAME GATE TO MACHAME CAMP
We depart from Arusha and drive through Machame Village to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. While our permits are processed, the crew prepares our gear and campsite. The hike begins through lush rainforest, with winding trails lined by towering trees and vibrant flora. Your guide will introduce you to local wildlife and explain the ecosystem of this lower elevation. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so trekking poles and gaiters are strongly recommended. After 5–6 hours of hiking, we arrive at Machame Camp, settling in and enjoying the serene rainforest environment. Elevation gain: 5,942 ft to 9,911 ft.
DAY 2: MACHAME CAMP TO SHIRA CAMP
After a hearty breakfast, we leave Machame Camp, climbing steadily through the rainforest as it gradually gives way to moorland. The path ascends along valleys and steep rocky ridges, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail leads westward, following a river gorge, where hikers can admire the diverse vegetation and unique wildlife. Temperatures begin to drop as we approach Shira Camp, located on a plateau that provides panoramic views. The hike takes 4–5 hours and covers 5.3 km (3 miles). This day allows gentle acclimatization to higher altitude, preparing the body for the challenging terrain ahead. Elevation: 9,911 ft to 12,595 ft.
DAY 3: SHIRA CAMP TO LAVA TOWER THEN BARRANCO
From Shira Camp, we begin hiking east along the plateau before turning southeast toward Lava Tower, a prominent landmark at 15,250 ft known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” This route offers dramatic vistas of glaciers and rock formations. Although we gain elevation to the tower, we then descend to Barranco Camp for the night, helping our bodies acclimatize. Along the way, guides provide insights into the geological features and alpine desert environment. This 10.75 km (6 miles) trek takes 5–6 hours, combining ascent and descent with gradual exposure to higher altitudes while enjoying the unique landscapes of Kilimanjaro. Elevation: 12,595 ft to 13,077 ft.
DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP
Today begins with a challenging climb of the Barranco Wall, a steep ridge requiring balance and teamwork. The trail winds upward, offering breathtaking views of the valleys and surrounding peaks. Once over the wall, the route descends gently into the Karanga Valley, where we meet the junction connecting to the Mweka Trail. The terrain transitions into alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and rocky paths. Hiking 5.2 km (3 miles) takes about 3–4 hours, giving plenty of time to appreciate the stark beauty and observe high-altitude flora. Overnight at Karanga Camp allows rest before the final ascent. Elevation: 13,077 ft to 13,235 ft.
DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP
After breakfast, the hike continues through the alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit push. The trail ascends gradually, offering varied perspectives of Kilimanjaro’s peaks and glaciers. Barafu Camp provides a strategic location for acclimatization and final preparations. Though the distance is only 3.3 km (2 miles), the altitude—rising from 13,235 ft to 15,295 ft—makes it a demanding section requiring careful pacing. Once at camp, climbers rest, have an early dinner, and prepare for the pre-dawn summit attempt. The surrounding landscape offers dramatic vistas of rocky ridges, scree slopes, and distant snowfields. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP TO SUMMIT AND DESCENT TO MWEKA CAMP
We begin the most challenging segment between midnight and 2 a.m., climbing under headlamps through scree and rocky slopes. The trail ascends through glaciers toward Stella Point on the crater rim, offering breathtaking views of the sunrise. From Stella Point, it’s another hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,341 ft. After summit photos and celebration, we descend to Barafu Camp for lunch, then continue to Mweka Camp. The trek covers 4.86 km up and 11.5 km down over 5–7 hours, traversing snow and glacial terrain. This day tests endurance while providing immense satisfaction. Elevation: 15,295 ft to 19,341 ft, then descent to 10,190 ft.
DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony honoring our guides and crew, we begin the final descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate. The trail winds gently downward, offering lush vegetation, streams, and birdlife. Hikers celebrate the accomplishment and take in the last views of Kilimanjaro’s slopes. At the park gate, summit certificates are presented, marking the achievement. A vehicle awaits to transport climbers back to Moshi town (30 minutes) or Arusha (approximately 95 km). The hike is 9.1 km (6 miles) and takes 3–4 hours, concluding the Kilimanjaro adventure with a sense of fulfillment, camaraderie, and lasting memories. Elevation: 10,190 ft.
Included
Excluded
