Majestic Climb Kilimanjaro

7 Days Machame Route

$1762-1980 USD

Get quote

Safari summary

The seven-day Machame variation is the best plan for this route. On this route, the trek from Barranco to Barafu is split into two days. This means there's a shorter day right before the big summit push. This is crucial because summit day starts super early, around midnight, so climbers are already tired before the toughest day. Having a shorter day before helps climbers get more rest.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks

Fine details

Safari highlights

Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
All drinks
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Machame Gate to Machame Camp

The drive from Arusha to Machame Gate takes approximately 3 hours, passing through the village of Machame situated on the mountain's lower slopes. From the park gate, we trek through the rainforest along a winding trail up a ridge. The path can be muddy and slippery at lower elevations, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3050m/9950ft Distance: 11km/7mi Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Montane Forest Meals: Lunch and Dinner.

Budget Camp

Machame Camp to Shira camp

Following breakfast, we bid farewell to the lush rainforest and ascend along a path, traversing the valley via a steep rocky ridge. Our journey veers westward, leading us through a river gorge until we reach the Shira campsite. Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft Distance: 5km/3mi Walking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Moorland Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Budget Camp

Shira Camp , Lava Tower to Barranco

From the Shira Plateau, we head east along a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo Peak. Our path then turns southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth”. Descending now, we make our way to the Barranco Camp, this day is crucial for acclimatization, preparing our bodies for summit day. Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft Distance: 10km/6mi Walking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Semi-desert Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Budget Camp

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

After breakfast, we start walking from Barranco and climb up a steep hill called the Barranco Wall. It's tough, but we keep going until we reach the Karanga Valley. From there, we head to a junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. We'll be climbing from 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft, covering a distance of 5km/3mi. It'll take us about 3-4 hours to climb. We'll have breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the way. The area we're trekking through is called the Alpine Desert.

Budget Camp

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

We keep climbing until we reach the Barafu Camp. This marks the completion of the South Circuit, giving us panoramic views of the summit from various angles. Here, we set up camp, take a rest, have dinner, and get ready for the big summit day. Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft Distance: 4km/2mi Climbing Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Budget Camp

Barafu, Summit to Mweka Camp

In the very early hours of the morning, from midnight to 2 am, we press on towards the summit, threading our way between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Upon reaching Stella Point, we pause to catch our breath and witness one of the most spectacular sunrises imaginable, weather permitting. From Stella Point, expect snow along the one-hour final push to the summit. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, we stand atop the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent.

Budget Camping

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha

After breakfast, we begin our descent towards the Mweka Park Gate to collect our summit certificates. As we descend to lower elevations, expect wet and muddy terrain. Wearing gaiters and using trekking poles can be helpful, keep rain gear and warmer clothing within reach. Upon reaching the Mweka Gate, a Kiliclimb Africa Safaris vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Arusha, approximately a 2-hour drive. Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft Distance: 10km/6m

No accommodation

Here are the latest 6 tours by Kiliclimb Africa Safaris. See all 19 tours.