7 Days Top Kilimanjaro Hiking by Machame Route Trip

The adventure begins at the Machame Gate, the starting point of the Machame Route. After registration and a briefing, you will commence your hike through lush rainforests, where a variety of exotic flora and fauna awaits. The trek to Machame Camp takes approximately 5-7 hours, covering a distance of about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles). Settle into your camp, enjoy a warm meal, and rest for the challenges ahead.

Destination: Machame Gate To Machame Camp

Accommodation: Machame Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

As the sun peeks over the horizon, you will embark on a thrilling ascent to Shira Camp. The trail gradually transforms from rainforest to heath and moorland, offering captivating views of the Shira Plateau. This leg of the journey spans around 5-7 hours, covering a distance of approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles). Reaching Shira Camp rewards you with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment.

Destination: Machame Camp To Shira Cave

Accommodation: Shira Cave Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Day 3 presents a unique challenge as you tackle the Lava Tower, an imposing rock formation at 4,600 meters (15,091 feet) above sea level. The climb to Lava Tower tests your endurance and acclimatization, but the panoramic views make it all worthwhile. Descending from Lava Tower, you'll reach the scenic Barranco Camp, located at 3,950 meters (12,960 feet). Today's trek covers approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and takes 6-8 hours.

Destination: Shira Cave To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp

Accommodation: Barranco Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

The hike from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp introduces you to the famous Barranco Wall, a challenging but exhilarating section that demands careful maneuvering. Overcoming this obstacle rewards you with breathtaking sights and a sense of triumph. The distance covered today is approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles), and the trek takes about 4-5 hours. At Karanga Camp, catch your breath and prepare for the final ascent.

Destination: Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp

Accommodation: Karanga Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

On Day 5, you'll continue your journey from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The trail winds through alpine desert terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding glaciers. The hike spans approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and takes 4-5 hours. Arriving at Barafu Camp, take time to rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the upcoming summit push.

Destination: Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp

Accommodation: Barafu Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

The summit day! Start your ascent in the early hours to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb is physically demanding and mentally challenging but rewards you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As the sun rises, painting the sky with vibrant hues, you'll stand atop Africa's highest peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). After capturing this incredible moment, descend to Mweka Camp, covering a total distance of approximately 17 kilometers (10.6 miles).

Destination: Barafu Camp To Uhuru Peak To Mweka Camp

Accommodation: Mweka Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

On the final day, bid farewell to the mountain as you descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. The route takes you through lush rainforest, where you can reflect on the amazing journey you've undertaken. At the gate, receive your well-deserved certificate of achievement and celebrate your triumph. Transfer back to your accommodation, reveling in the memories of an unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.