7 Days on Top of Kilimanjaro Machame Route Climb

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we will pick you up and drive to Machame Village. Here, you will have the opportunity to purchase mineral water and receive a packed lunch. Depending on the road conditions, we will either continue driving or start the climb from Machame Gate (1490m). The climb begins as we ascend through the lush Montane Forest. Expect some rain, mud, and fog during this part of the climb. Keep an eye out for the fascinating Colobus monkeys and other wildlife along the way. Around halfway through the trail, we'll stop for a lunch break before reaching Machame Camp (2980m) in the late afternoon or early evening. Our skilled porters and chef, who move quickly, will have set up your tents and prepared snacks and hot dinner for your arrival. Remember to prepare for a cold night, as temperatures can drop to freezing at this altitude.

Destination: Machame Gate To Machame Camp

Accommodation: Machame Campsite

  public camp site

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

Today's climb will take you through the heathland moorland vegetation as you leave the rainforest behind. Cross several streams and walk along a rocky ridge until you reach the Shira Plateau, which leads to Shira Camp (3840m). Here, you'll be treated to a beautiful view of the Western Breach and its glaciers in the East. Once again, our team will ensure your tents are ready, and you'll have access to drinking and washing water. Enjoy evening snacks and a delicious dinner prepared by our chef.

Destination: Machame Camp To Shira Cave

Accommodation: Shira Cave Campsite

  public camp site

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

Leaving the moorland environment, you'll enter the semi-desert and rocky landscape today. After about 5 hours of climb, you'll arrive at the Lava Tower (4630m), where we'll have a packed lunch. At this point, some climbers may start experiencing the effects of altitude, such as headaches and shortness of breath. After lunch, we'll descend to Barranco Camp (3950m) for the night. The lower altitude of this campsite provides an opportunity for better acclimatization. Enjoy the stunning sunset views as you rest and have dinner.

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

Today, we'll conquer the Great Barranco Wall, a Class 2 climb that is typically easier than it appears. From the top of the wall, you'll have a magnificent view of Heim Glacier and be above the clouds. The trail then takes us through the Karanga Valley, an ideal spot for further acclimatization. We'll set up camp at Karanga Camp (3959m) and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

Destination: Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp

Accommodation: Karanga Campsite

  public camp site

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

After breakfast, we'll continue our journey, and the trail will intersect with the Mweka Route, the path used for the descent on the final two days. We'll arrive at Barafu Camp (4600m), the last water stops for the porters. Here, the campsite is located on a rocky and exposed ridge, providing a view of the surrounding landscape. We'll have an early dinner to prepare for the summit attempt, which will take place later that night.

Destination: Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp

Accommodation: Barafu Campsite

  public camp site

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

Around 23:30, your guide will wake you up with tea and biscuits for the summit attempt. The route will lead northwest, and you'll ascend over stone scree, considered one of the most challenging parts of the climb. After approximately 6 hours, you'll reach Stella Point (5685m) on the crater rim. Witness the magnificent sunrise before continuing for about 2 hours to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro. Take some time to celebrate and capture the moment before descending back to Barafu Camp for a well-deserved hot lunch. After eating and resting, we'll begin the descent to Mweka Camp (3100m). The Mweka Trail will lead you through various terrains, from scree and rocks to moorland and rainforest. Mweka Camp (3100m) will be your final campsite on the mountain, and here, you can enjoy dinner and a good night's rest.

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

Following a hearty breakfast, our team will celebrate your successful summit with dancing and singing. You'll descend for about three hours to Mweka Gate (1980m). At the gate, all climbers will sign their names to receive certificates of completion. Those who reached Stella Point will receive green certificates, while those who reached Uhuru Peak will receive gold certificates. After receiving your certificates, you'll be served a hot lunch before driving back to Moshi.