Kilimanjaro Machame Route
Machame
With lush rain forest, river valleys and views of the Kibo Peak, the Machame Route is considered by many to be the most scenic route up Kilimanjaro. The extra day used on the seven day climb makes it much easier than the six night climb – offering a better chance of success.
We ensure you are looked after by a large team while climbing Kilimanjaro, including a chief guide, an assistant guide, a cook and numerous porters. You camp throughout the trip using the level of equipment which suits you.
Day 1 – Rainforest
After a vehicle transfer to the start of the Machame Route, you spend the day walking to the Machame Hut through the lush rainforest on Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes. This is generally a moderate day. Although poor weather can make it more demanding. Your first night’s camp on Kilimanjaro is at about 3,000m above sea level.
Day 2 – Shira
After an early start you head across a stream valley before a three to four hour climb up a steep ridge. You then descend into a river gorge before climbing a more gentle slope to the moorland of the Shira Plateau, a fascinating area of Kilimanjaro. Your camp tonight is near the Shira Hut at around 3,840m
Day 3 – Barranco Valley
During today’s five to six hour walk you have the chance to enjoy typical Kilimanjaro vegetation such as senecios, lobelia and helichrysum as well as the Lava Tower and distinct glaciers if the weather is clear. Although you reach 4,600m at your highest point, you then descend to camp at a lower level (excellent for your acclimatisation and to increase your chances of success).
As the path descends you should be able to sight Kilimanjaro’s Kibo Peak. Tonight’s camp in the Barranco Valley is at approximately 3,950m
Day 4 – Karanga
Your route today climbs the Barranco wall before heading across scree and ridges into the Karanga Valley. At this stage you are at about 4,100m and should enjoy spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s Western Breach and the southern glacier.
You will reach camp by lunchtime today and will have enough time to relax and also take a short acclimatisation walk.
Day 5- Barafu
Having left Karanga, you climb slowly up a moraine ridge taking in the views of the southern glacier and glacial valleys threading their way down the mountain. The final section to Barafu is climbed slowly as it is quite steep.
Arriving again at camp around lunchtime gives you the afternoon to relax and prepare for the summit day to follow. You will have a final briefing from your guide in the evening.
Day 6 – Summit – Mweka
You set out towards the summit of Kilimanjaro in the early hours of the morning, with a summit guide alongside you. This final ascent across scree is taken very slowly but the aim is steady progression. Towards the top you pass between the Ratzel and Rebmann glaciers before arriving at Stella point and Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak at 5,895m. If you’ve made good time, despite the lack of oxygen this far above sea level, you may be here in time to watch sunrise before you start your descent.
A long day follows as your descent camp is pitched at Mweka at 3,100m.
Day 7 – Moshi / Arusha
Your final descent is through the mountain’s lower heath section and rainforest before you find yourself at the gate to the national park. From here you will be transferred by vehicle to your local accommodation for a well deserved shower and rest.
7Day Machame Route Itinerary
Notes
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Prices Above Includes:
- All park entry fees
- All camping/hut fees
- Rescue fees
- Guide and porters fees
- Guide and porters salaries
- Transport to and from the mountain gates(except where noted)
- Meals 3 times daily
- Cook and all kitchen utensils
Prices Above Excludes:
- International flights to/from your home
- Tips to the guides and porters
- The first night on before trek and last night after trek (book with us)
- Airport transfers (book with us for 60$ per transfer)
- Hard and soft drinks and tips
- and all Mountain Gears (we can arrange hire of this)