Adventures above the clouds

9days Mountain climbing

$1800-2000 USD

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Safari summary

The Machame Route is renowned for its scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and the effective "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization profile it naturally offers. Extending it to 9 days further maximizes acclimatization, making it one of the most successful routes for reaching the summit.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

Walking safari—with armed guard
Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
Airport transfers
Meals
Park fees

What’s not included?

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

Itinerary

Arrival and preparation in Moshi

Kilimanjaro

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you'll be greeted and transferred to your comfortable hotel in Moshi, nestled at the base of the majestic mountain. The late afternoon is dedicated to a crucial pre-climb briefing with your experienced lead guide. This session covers the daily trek details, safety protocols, altitude sickness prevention, and a thorough gear check to ensure you're well-equipped. A welcome dinner at the hotel, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

Into the Rainforest to Machame Camp

Kilimanjaro

After a hearty breakfast, you'll be driven to Machame Gate, the starting point of your trek. Following park registration formalities, you'll embark on your first ascent through the lush, dense Montane Rainforest. The trail, though well-maintained, can be muddy, so gaiters are advisable. The steady, slow pace set by your guides ("pole pole") is paramount from the outset. You'll arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon, where your tents will already be set up, ready for a warm meal and rest.

Moorland and Shira camp

Kilimanjaro

Today, the landscape dramatically transforms as you leave the rainforest behind and enter the open Moorland Zone. The path becomes steeper and rockier in sections, but rewards you with increasingly expansive views of the Shira Plateau and glimpses of Kibo, the summit cone. After a hot lunch at camp, you'll settle into Shira Camp, situated on the vast, ancient Shira Plateau, a truly striking geological feature. The air here is noticeably cooler and drier, signaling a change in altitude.

Lava Tower and Moir Hut

his is a pivotal day for acclimatization, employing the "climb high, sleep low" principle. You'll traverse the exposed Shira Plateau, then undertake a significant ascent to the towering volcanic plug known as Lava Tower. This strenuous climb will test your initial altitude adaptation, with lunch typically enjoyed at this high point. Following lunch, you'll begin a descent to the quieter, more remote Moir Hut, located on the northern side of the mountain.

Valleys to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro

Today's trek involves a series of undulating ascents and descents as you traverse across the western and southern flanks of Kibo. The landscape is characterized by sparse vegetation and dramatic, rocky formations. You'll encounter stunning panoramic views throughout the day. The latter part of the trek involves a steep descent into the breathtaking Barranco Valley. Barranco Camp, is often considered the most picturesque camp on the route, surrounded by unique giant groundsels.

Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

The day begins with the exhilarating challenge of the Barranco Wall. This steep, rocky scramble requires using your hands for balance and leverage, but it is not a technical climb, and your guides will provide constant assistance. From the top, you're rewarded with magnificent views across the valley and towards Kibo.This relatively short day to Karanga Camp is strategically designed for further acclimatization and allows for crucial rest and hydration before the final push to high camp.

The Final Push to Barafu Camp

Today, you'll make the final ascent to Barafu Camp, your high camp before the summit attempt. The terrain becomes increasingly barren and rocky, entering the true Arctic Zone at these altitudes. It's a steady uphill climb where you'll feel the effects of the thinner air more acutely, making a consistent, slow pace essential. Arriving at Barafu Camp in the early afternoon allows ample time to rest, prepare your gear for the impending summit night. An early, light dinner for the challenge ahead.

Summit Day

The most anticipated and challenging day begins around midnight with a wake-up call for hot tea . You'll start your relentless ascent in the dark, illuminated by headlamps, navigating the steep scree and volcanic ash slopes. After 5-7 hours of strenuous climbing, you'll reach Stella Point on the crater rim, often coinciding with a breathtaking sunrise. From Stella Point, it's a further 1-2 hours along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.

Descent to Mweka Gate and Departure

Your final morning on the mountain begins with breakfast at Mweka Camp. The last leg of the trek takes you through the enchanting rainforest once more, leading to Mweka Gate. Here, you'll sign out of the park and, if successful, proudly receive your summit certificates. A celebratory gathering with your climbing team is customary before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved hot shower and a chance to reflect on your incredible achievement.

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