7-Day: Kilimanjaro Trek via Machame Route

Name: 7-Day: Kilimanjaro Trek via Machame Route
Address: Tanzania

Multi-day trips Guided tours Outdoor sports Tours Nature & adventure Outdoor activities National parks Climbing experiences Hiking

Embark on a 7-day guided trek along the Machame Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Experience diverse landscapes, acclimatize at Lava Tower, and conquer the Barranco Wall.

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Highlights

Feel the thrill of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa
Trek through diverse landscapes, from rainforest to alpine desert
Climb the challenging Barranco Wall for stunning mountain views
Acclimatize at Lava Tower and enjoy dramatic volcanic scenery
Celebrate your achievement with a summit certificate at Mweka Gate

Description

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp Begin your adventure by hiking from Machame Gate at 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) to Machame Camp at 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). Gain about 1,200 meters in elevation over roughly 11 kilometers (7 miles). Trek for 5 to 7 hours through a lush montane rainforest, known for its humid atmosphere, towering trees, and rich biodiversity. Despite being a relatively moderate hike, the combination of steady uphill climbing and altitude makes it a rewarding yet challenging start to your Kilimanjaro journey. Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp Ascend from Machame Camp at 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) to Shira Camp at 3,840 meters (12,598 feet), covering approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) in 4 to 6 hours. The trail is shorter but steeper than the previous day, and the environment changes noticeably as you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. As you climb higher, the air gets thinner, but you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Shira Plateau and surrounding peaks. Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp Hike from Shira Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,950m), covering about 10 km in 6–8 hours. The route passes through semi-desert terrain with dramatic volcanic scenery, helping your body adjust to the altitude by climbing high and sleeping low. Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp Ascend from Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Camp (3,995m), covering about 5 km in 4–5 hours. Begin with the challenging but rewarding climb up the Barranco Wall, nicknamed the 'Breakfast Wall,' a steep, rocky section that requires some scrambling. Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp Hike from Karanga Camp (3,995m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m), gaining nearly 700 meters over a short 4 km distance in about 4–5 hours. The trail leads through the barren alpine desert zone, with little vegetation and increasingly colder, windier conditions. Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m) after a challenging overnight climb from Barafu Camp, reaching the top at sunrise for stunning glacier views. After a brief celebration, descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m), covering about 17 km in 12–15 hours—making it the toughest but most rewarding day of the trek. Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate On the final day, descend from Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m), hiking about 10 km through lush rainforest over 3–4 hours. The trail is scenic but can be slippery, especially if wet. Upon reaching the gate, celebrate your achievement with your team, receive your summit certificate, and then return to Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest.

Includes

Park admission for eight days Airport pickup and transfer Porters who transport your bags A private guide who speaks English fluently A private chef who speaks English wellList Item

Important Information

The trek involves high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. A good level of fitness is required. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for cold and wet weather. The trek is challenging and requires mental and physical preparation.