7-Day Machame Route: A Journey to Kilimanjaro's Summit at 1790 USD

7-Day Machame Route: A Journey to Kilimanjaro's Summit

TOUR OVERVIEW

Embark on an unforgettable 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. While the Machame route can be completed in six days, we highly recommend a seven-day itinerary for optimal acclimatization. The route's unique topography allows hikers to ascend to higher altitudes and then rest at lower ones, significantly enhancing the acclimatization process.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

• Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
• Distance: 11 km
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest

Embark on a scenic drive from Moshi to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, a journey of approximately 50 minutes. The path leads through the charming village of Machame nestled on the mountain's lower slopes. Departing from the park gate, you'll traverse the enchanting rainforest, ascending a ridge. Further down, the trail may become muddy and slippery, making gaiters and trekking poles invaluable. After a short distance, you'll reach the Machame Camp.

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Day 2: First Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp

• Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters, 3,280 feet

On this day, hike through Kilimanjaro’s moorland, experiencing the relatively short yet steep Rongai route. You'll catch sight of Mawenzi Peak in the distance.

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Day 3: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

• Elevation Gain: 730 meters, 2,390 feet

This is an acclimatization day, allowing you to hike in the morning and rest in the afternoon. The hike is relatively short but steep. The Mawenzi Tarn campsite is situated below Mawenzi Peak, offering stunning views of both Mawenzi and Kibo.

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Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn Camp On day four, take advantage of an acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn. Consider hiking a bit higher before returning to Mawenzi Tarn in the afternoon.

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Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Camp

• Elevation Gain: 420 meters/1380 feet

Cross the lunar landscape of the saddle on this day to reach the final campsite. Kibo Camp is situated directly below the Kibo cone, providing views of your ultimate destination.

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Day 6: Kibo Camp to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

• Elevation Gain: 1,145 meters, 3,760 feet
• Elevation Loss: 2,175 meters, 7,140 feet

Around midnight, commence the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Over the next six hours, navigate by the light of your flashlight. The climb to the crater rim is the most challenging part of the trek. The trail is very steep until you reach the crater rim at Gilman’s Point. The hike from Gilman’s to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and, relative to the entire trek, not excessively difficult. However, the altitude makes the hike long and demanding. The crater rim hike takes roughly two hours. After reaching Uhuru, capture memorable photos of your guide and group at the peak before beginning the descent to Horombo Hut.

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Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

• Elevation Loss: 1,920 meters, 6,295 feet

Following breakfast, conclude the trek with a descent to Marangu Gate. Your final hike on Kilimanjaro is a picturesque one, traversing through Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. Exercise caution during the descent, as the trail can be slippery. You'll have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs like t-shirts and refreshments at the gate.

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

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) or expect tipping of 15%-20%

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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.