6 Days Tanzania Machame Route

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in the charming town of Moshi. Here, you'll meet with your knowledgeable guide who will provide a detailed briefing on your forthcoming trek and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the essential mountain gear. Any missing gear can be conveniently rented on this day.

● Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included

The journey from Moshi to the Machame Gate typically takes about 1 hour. En route, you'll pass through the picturesque village of Machame nestled on the lower slopes of the mountain. Upon reaching the park gate, our trek begins as we venture into the lush rainforest, following a winding trail that ascends along a ridge until we arrive at the Machame Camp.

● Machame Gate to Machame Camp

● Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft

● Distance: 11 km/7 miles

● Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

● Habitat: Rainforest

Leaving behind the verdant rainforest, our journey continues along an ascending path, leading us up to a steep and rocky ridge. Upon reaching the expansive Shira Plateau, we traverse through heather and open moorlands, eventually crossing a sizable river gorge before arriving at Shira Camp.

● Machame Camp to Shira Camp

● Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft

● Distance: 5 km/3 miles

● Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

● Habitat: Heath

Our journey continues to the east, ascending a ridge before veering southeast towards the impressive Lava Tower, a towering volcanic rock formation standing at 300 feet tall. Descending from the Lava Tower, we make our way through the peculiar yet enchanting Senecio Forest, reaching Barranco Camp at an altitude of 13,000 feet. While the day's elevation remains consistent, the time spent at higher altitudes proves beneficial for acclimatization.

● Shira Cave to Lava Tower

● Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft

● Distance: 7 km/4 miles

● Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

● Habitat: Alpine Desert

● Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

● Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft

● Distance: 3 km/2 miles

● Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

● Habitat: Alpine Desert

Our day commences with a descent into the majestic Great Barranco, an expansive ravine that beckons us onward. Ascending steeply, we conquer the formidable Great Barranco Wall, a rugged ascent that separates us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. While the climb is not technical, it is indeed lengthy and demanding. Along our journey, we pass beneath the towering Heim and Kersten glaciers, making our way towards the Karanga Valley, our final replenishment stop for fresh water before the summit push. As we press onward, the terrain transitions to scree, leading us through a landscape characterized by its arid and desolate beauty, ultimately guiding us to the Barafu Camp.

● Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

● Distance: 8 km/5.3 miles

● Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

● Habitat: Arctic

As we camp at Barafu Camp (4640m), our day begins in the early hours of the morning, typically around midnight, as we embark on our final push towards the summit. This segment of the trek is undoubtedly the most mentally and physically demanding. At such high elevations and during the early hours, the wind and cold can be harsh. We navigate through darkness, ascending steadily for several hours with brief yet frequent breaks. As we approach Stella Point (18,900 ft), a breathtaking sunrise unfolds over Mawenzi Peak, offering an awe-inspiring spectacle. Finally, we reach Uhuru Peak, standing proudly as the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa.

From the summit, we begin our descent, retracing our steps back to Barafu Camp for lunch before continuing on to Millennium Camp. The trail descends sharply and is notably rocky, posing challenges for the knees; trekking poles prove to be invaluable aids. Nestled in the upper forest region, Millennium Camp often welcomes mist or rain in the late afternoon. As night falls, we savor our last dinner on the mountain, followed by a well-deserved rest.

● Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak

● Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft

● Distance: 5 km/3 miles

● Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

● Habitat: Arctic

● Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

● Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft

● Distance: 12 km/7 miles

● Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

● Habitat: Rain Forest

As we enjoy a refreshing drink and snacks at Millennium Camp, we prepare for our final descent on the last day of our trek. Our journey leads us downhill towards Mweka Gate where we collect our well-deserved summit certificates. Descending to lower elevations, the terrain may become wet and muddy. Upon reaching the gate, we continue for another hour to Mweka Village. Here, a vehicle awaits to transport us back to Moshi Town.

● Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

● Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

● Distance: 10 km/6 miles

● Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

● Habitat: Rainforest

Today is a leisurely day to unwind after your trek before your departure flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you might choose to explore Moshi town, perhaps picking up some souvenirs, before heading to the airport.

*Safari, Zanzibar, and other add-ons are available if you wish to extend your exploration of Tanzania.

● Meals: Breakfast Included