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MACHAME ROUTE 7 DAYS

Summit the Roof of Africa: 8-Day Machame Route Expedition to Kilimanjaro

8-Day Machame Route: Enhanced Acclimatization for Summit Success

TOUR OVERVIEW

Embark on an extended adventure via the Machame route, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and successful summit ascents. This route provides an opportunity to sleep in tents, expertly transported by our support crews. The Machame route is a very scenic and beautiful route, which can be completed in 7 days, however we strongly recommend hiking the route in 8 days, allowing for more time to acclimatise. The key to the success of the Machame route is its topography, allowing hikers to climb high and sleep low, helping towards better acclimatization.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

  • Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft

  • Distance: 11 km/7 miles

  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

  • Habitat: Rain Forest

We begin at Machame Gate and ascend through the captivating rainforest, encountering diverse flora and fauna. The trail unveils glimpses of Kilimanjaro above. Our first night is spent at Machame Camp.

 

DAY 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

  • Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,600 ft

  • Distance: 5 km/3 miles

  • Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

  • Habitat: Heath

Today, we venture into the moorland, witnessing the majestic Shira Plateau and Kibo in the distance. Our camp at Shira offers a stunning backdrop.

 

DAY 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

  • Elevation: 12,600 ft to 12,950 ft

  • Distance: 10 km/6 miles

  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

  • Habitat: Semi-Desert

We navigate the rocky Lava Tower and descend to Barranco Valley. This acclimatization hike aids in adjusting to higher altitudes. Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall, is our next stop.

 

DAY 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

  • Elevation: 12,950 ft to 13,106 ft

  • Distance: 5 km/3 miles

  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert After conquering the Barranco Wall, we traverse the glacial valleys of Karanga. This shorter trek allows for acclimatization and offers breathtaking views of the southern glacier.

 

DAY 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

  • Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft

  • Distance: 4 km/2 miles

  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Continuing our ascent, we approach the Barafu Camp. This high-altitude base camp offers mesmerizing views of the summit. Rest and prepare for the final push.

 

DAY 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (Overnight at Barafu Camp)

  • Elevation (Barafu to Uhuru Peak): 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft

  • Distance: 5 km/3 miles ascent

  • Hiking Time (Summit): 6-8 hours

  • Habitat: Arctic

In the early hours, we embark on the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. Witness an awe-inspiring sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. After celebrating our achievement, we descend to Barafu Camp for a well-deserved rest.

 

DAY 7: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp

  • Elevation: 15,331 ft to 10,065 ft

  • Distance: 12 km/7 miles

  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert/Rain Forest

We descend through the alpine desert, then into the lush rainforest, experiencing a range of ecosystems. Mweka Camp provides a comfortable resting place for the night.

 

DAY 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

  • Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

  • Distance: 10 km/6 miles

  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

  • Habitat: Rain Forest

The final leg of our journey leads us through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle awaits to transfer us back to Moshi for a well-earned celebration.

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Embark on this extraordinary 8-day adventure, ensuring optimal acclimatization for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro summit experience.

MACHAME ROUTE 7 DAYS
Image by Crispin Jones

PRICE PER PERSON (USD)

Starting from 1899 USD

Book Here

INCLUDE & EXCLUDE

What is included​​

  • Quality, Waterproof, four-season private mountain sleeping tent

  • Quality Mess tents with table and chairs

  • Certified, experienced, English speaking mountain guides

  • All Tanzanian National Park Fees

  • Government Climbing Taxes

  • Climbing permits

  • All hot Meals prepared by our cook while on Mountain

  • Guides, Porters and Cook Salaries

  • Fair and ethical treatment of Porters

  • Enough porters to carry your luggage

  • Safety Equipment

  • Emergency Oxygen

  • Pulse Ox meter

  • Hot drinks at every meal

  • Water provided on climb, mineral water for the first day and boiled water every day

  • Emergency rescue fees

  • Personal Summit Certificate signed by the National Park and your Guide

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What is not included

  • International airfares and departure taxes

  • Personal items and toiletries

  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, laundry services, and visa and international flight ticket fees

  • Private portable mobile toilet with a tent on the mountain

  • Tips for guides, porters, and cook

  • (Tipping guide: 10-20$US for Porter, 15-25$US for Cook, 20-30$US for Guide, per day and per group) Please expect 15% -20% Tipping

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Embark on this extraordinary journey and conquer Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, a true testament to human endurance and the awe-inspiring power of nature.

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