Machame Route

Destination Highlights

7 Day Excursion

Kilimanjaro Machame Route: A Scenic and Adventurous Trek

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our Kilimanjaro Machame Route trek, a 7-day journey that offers a perfect balance of challenge, breathtaking scenery, and a rewarding summit experience. Known for its diverse landscapes, the Machame Route takes you from lush rainforests teeming with wildlife to the dramatic, rocky terrain of the Shira Plateau, and onward through alpine deserts to the iconic Barranco Wall. As you ascend towards Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, you’ll witness stunning sunrises and panoramic views over the African plains. This route is ideal for trekkers looking for an immersive Kilimanjaro experience, offering excellent acclimatization opportunities and a higher summit success rate. Whether you’re an experienced climber or an adventurous spirit, this trek promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tanzania’s natural wonders, guided by our expert team at Dakik Expeditions.

Diffculty

Moderate - Hard

Accomodation

Tents

Elevation

5,895 metres

Summit Success Rate

98%

Scheduled Climb: 25th January, 2025 - 02nd February, 2025

Or choose dates that fit perfectly with your schedule!

Destination Experiences

Mount Kilimanjaro Rainforest

Begin your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest, where misty trails lead you past towering trees, colorful birds, and the sounds of distant waterfalls. The vibrant ecosystem provides a magical start to your adventure.

Karanga Valley

Nestled between Barranco and Barafu, Karanga Valley is a peaceful oasis offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers. This campsite provides a great spot to recharge and prepare for the final push to the summit.

Barafu Camp

At 4,673 meters, Barafu Camp is the final stop before summiting. Here, trekkers rest and acclimatize, surrounded by icy ridges and dramatic landscapes, preparing for a nighttime summit push to Uhuru Peak.

Glacial Beauty

As you near the summit, you’ll pass Kilimanjaro’s majestic Southern Ice Field, a rare and awe-inspiring sight of glaciers amidst the volcanic terrain. This stunning feature is a testament to the mountain’s geological wonder.

Pricing

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Use this day to rest and prepare for the trek. Meet your guide for a comprehensive briefing on the journey ahead.

Day 2

Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Elevation: Start at 1,800 meters (5,905 feet); end at 3,000 meters (9,843 feet)

Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)

Duration: 5-7 hours of hiking

Camp: Machame Camp

Start your trek at the Machame Gate and ascend through lush rainforest with chances to see wildlife and vibrant flora. The day ends at Machame Camp, nestled on the mountain's edge, offering your first stunning sunset view.

Day 3

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Elevation: Start at 3,000 meters (9,843 feet); end at 3,840 meters (12,598 feet)

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Duration: 4-6 hours of hiking

Camp: Shira Camp

Ascend through the heath zone to the Shira Plateau, where the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views across the mountain and below. The day ends at Shira Camp, where the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see.

Day 4

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Elevation: Start at 3,840 meters (12,598 feet); Lava Tower at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet); end at 3,960 meters (12,992 feet)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

Duration: 6-8 hours of hiking

Camp: Barranco Camp

The route now leads to the Lava Tower, a significant altitude test, before descending to Barranco Camp. This day is crucial for acclimatization and features the imposing Barranco Wall, setting the stage for the next day’s climb.

Day 5

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: Start at 3,960 meters (12,992 feet); end at 4,035 meters (13,238 feet)

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Duration: 4-5 hours of hiking

Camp: Karanga Camp

Tackle the Barranco Wall in an exhilarating scramble that is less difficult than it looks. The trail then dips and rises, crossing streams to reach Karanga Camp, a scenic spot ideal for rest and digestion of the altitude gains.

Day 6

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: Start at 4,035 meters (13,238 feet); end at 4,673 meters (15,331 feet)

Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)

Duration: 3-4 hours of hiking

Camp: Barafu Camp

Ascend to Barafu Camp, the launch point for the summit. The camp, situated on a barren, rocky ridge, offers a restful evening before the nighttime summit attempt. Sleep early as the ascent begins just after midnight.

Day 7

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and down to Mweka Camp

Elevation: Start at 4,673 meters (15,331 feet); ascend to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet); descend to 3,080 meters (10,105 feet)

Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles)

Duration: 12-14 hours of hiking

Camp: Mweka Camp

Begin your summit attempt around midnight, climbing steeply upwards to reach Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak for sunrise—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend through rocky terrain and heath zone to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

Day 8

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate - Arusha

Elevation: Descend from 3,080 meters (10,105 feet) to 1,640 meters (5,380 feet)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

Duration: 3-4 hours of hiking

Complete your descent through the lush rainforest to

Day 9

Enjoy some final moments in Tanzania with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Later, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight, carrying unforgettable memories of your climb.