Machame Route 7 Days

You will drive from Arusha to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, passing through the village of Machame on the lower slopes of the mountain. After leaving the park gate, you will walk through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. The trail can be muddy and slippery; gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Continue hiking for a short distance until you reach Machame Camp.

• Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3000m/9950ft
• Distance: 11km/7mi
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: LD

After breakfast, leave the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing a valley and walking along a steep rocky ridge covered with heather. As you hike, turn west onto a river gorge. Rest, have dinner, and stay overnight at Shira Campsite.

• Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft
• Distance: 5km/3mi
• Walking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: BLD

From Shira Plateau, continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo Peak. Hike southeast toward Lava Tower (“shark’s tooth”). Shortly after, take the second junction up to Arrow Glacier at 16,000 feet, then descend to Barranco Camp at 13,000 feet. This day aids in acclimatization.

• Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 3900m/13,000ft
• Distance: 10km/6mi
• Walking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Semi-desert
• Meals: BLD

After breakfast, leave Barranco and tackle the steep Barranco Wall, then continue to Karanga Valley Campsite. This short day is designed for acclimatization.

• Elevation: 4600m/15,100ft to 13,100ft
• Distance: 5km/3mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

After breakfast, depart Karanga and join the Mweka Trail junction. Continue up to Barafu Camp. You will have completed the South Circuit, providing views of the summit from various angles. Rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for summit day. Mawenzi and Kibo peaks are visible from this location.

• Elevation: 13,100ft to 15,300ft
• Distance: 4km/2.5mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Embark on an unforgettable early morning adventure (midnight to 02:00) as you ascend towards the summit between the breathtaking Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Navigate through shimmering scree and rugged terrain as you make your way to Stella Point (18,600ft/5,665m) on the crater rim. Here, take a moment to relish the spectacular sunrise, casting a golden glow over the icy landscapes (weather permitting). Continue your ascent to the summit (19,341ft/5,895m), where you’ll stand at the Roof of Africa, surrounded by panoramic views of the icy expanse. Begin your descent to Mweka Hut Campsite, with a rejuvenating lunch stop at Barafu.

• Elevation: 4640m/15,300ft to 5895m/19,341ft (summit), then descend to 3100m/10,200ft
• Distance: Varies
• Hiking Time: Full day
• Habitat: Arctic

After breakfast, descend to Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificate. The trail can be wet and muddy at lower elevations; gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Continue walking to Mweka Village where a vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi.

• Elevation: 10,000ft to 5,400ft
• Distance: 10km/6mi
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest

Note:  You can Extend your adventure with a thrilling safari! Choose from 1-3 extra days or a longer 4–7-day exploration to immerse yourself in Tanzania's breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. Enhance your journey and make every moment unforgettable!