Tour Details
Machame Route – 6 Day Climb
- 10 days / 9 night
- 5 Destinations
- Private Safari
Itinerary
The Machame route stands out as one of the most picturesque paths leading to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Commencing amidst verdant rainforests, the ascent unveils intermittent glimpses of Mount Meru, the Shira Ridge, and the towering summit of Kilimanjaro – Kibo.
Distinguished by its steeper sections and greater altitudes than the Marangu and Rongai routes, the Machame route presents a slightly more challenging endeavor.
Day 1 | Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha
The distance is approximately 35 km, with a driving time of around 45 minutes. Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, our transfer driver will meet you and escort you to the Meru View Lodge in the Usa River, just outside of Arusha. You will have the remainder of the day to enjoy at your leisure—whether relaxing at the lodge or exploring the town of Arusha (taxi services are available). Later in the evening, you will participate in a briefing session to prepare for the upcoming trek. Dinner and accommodations will be provided at the Meru View Lodge.
Day 2 | Arusha – Machame Gate (1790m) – Machame Camp (3010m)
Altitude ↑1220m; walking time approx. 5-6 hours. After breakfast, you’ll be taken to Kilimanjaro National Park’s entrance. While your guide handles registration, observe the mountain team preparing for the ascent. Then, embark on your trek through the lush mountain rainforest, home to ancient trees, ferns, and the playful black and white colobus monkeys. After 5-6 hours, you’ll reach Machame Camp, situated at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, where you’ll enjoy your first dinner before settling in for the night in tents. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 3 | Machame Camp (3010m) – New Shira Camp (3845m)
Altitude: 835m; walking time: approx. 4-6 hours.
Starting with an early morning departure, the trail steepens into heath and moorland, offering stunning mountain vistas. Today’s hike is shorter, reaching New Shira Camp by mid-afternoon, where breathtaking views await. As the sun sets, enjoy the illuminated Kibo rock face and glacier. Breakfast, lunch, dinner provided.
Day 4 | New Shira Camp (3845m) – Lava Tower (4640m) – Barranco Camp (3960m)
Altitude: ↑795m | ↓680m; walking time: approx. 6-7 hours.
Today’s ascent will be about 800 meters, with camping at a higher elevation to aid acclimatization for altitudes over 4500 meters in the coming days. You’ll start with a climb above the Shira Plateau towards Lava Tower and move through the afro-alpine desert with sparse vegetation. The trek traverses Barranco Valley, known for its impressive lobelia and giant Senecio plants. After 6 to 7 hours, you’ll reach the scenic Barranco Camp. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 5 | Barranco Camp (3960m) – Barafu Camp (4640m)
Altitude ↑680m; walking time approx. 5-6 hours Today’s journey commences with the challenging ascent of the Barranco Wall, where safety takes precedence, and your experienced guides will offer assistance as needed. Following the undulating ridge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the southern glacier of Kibo. A well-deserved lunch awaits in the picturesque Karanga Valley, followed by a 2 to 3-hour ascent to the Barafu Camp. Upon reaching the camp, take the opportunity to unwind, savor a hearty dinner, and retire early for the night. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 6 | Barafu Camp (4640m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Mweka Camp (3080m)
Altitude ↑1255m|↓2815m; walking time approx. 10-14 hours. The ascent starts at midnight with tea and a snack. Guided by torchlight, you’ll tackle the rugged screes of Kibo. After 5 to 7 hours, you’ll reach Stella Point (5730m), the crater rim, and then climb for 1 to 2 hours to Uhuru Peak for breathtaking views and a stunning sunrise. The descent is via the same route back to Barafu Camp, where a meal and rest await. After a short break, you’ll continue to Mweka Camp for supper and a good night’s sleep.
Day 7 | Mweka Camp (3080m) – Mweka Gate (1630m) – Arusha
Altitude ↓1450m; walking time approx. 2-3 hours. After breakfast and a farewell ceremony with the mountain crew, enjoy a leisurely 2-3 hour descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where your driver will take you back to Meru View Lodge. Upon arrival, relax with a hot shower and spend the rest of the day at your leisure—whether by the pool, reflecting on your achievement, or resting. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Day 8 | Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport
Following breakfast, you’ll receive transportation to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure. Alternatively, you can extend your stay in Tanzania and embark on a safari adventure or bask in relaxation along the shores of the Indian Ocean. Breakfast will be provided before your departure.
- transport in a 4×4
- safari vehicle
- professional, English speaking guide
- meals according to the itinerary
- Accomodation according to the itinerary
- drinking water
- activities and transfers as per itinerary
- all national park fees
- Flying Doctors insurance (AMREF) during the safari
- flights (international and domestic)
- meals not indicated in the itinerary
- alcoholic and soft drinks
- optional activities
- tips
- personal expenses,
- visa fees,
- travel insurance
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