The Machame Route stands out as a more demanding alternative to the Marangu route, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is celebrated for its high success rate in summit attempts, thanks to strategic acclimatization opportunities at key points like Lover’s Tower, Baranco, Karanga, and Barafu Camps. On the second day of the trek, climbers merge with those from Lemosho and Shira routes en route to Lover’s Tower and eventually Uhuru Peak. Unlike the Marangu route, Machame’s ascent path differs from its descent, culminating at the Mweka Gate for a memorable conclusion to the journey.
Campers on the Machame Route enjoy the comfort of customized all-weather tents, equipped with upgraded zippers, flysheets, and closed-cell full-ground pads for a cozy night’s rest. Also, Private toilet tents and solar-lit dining areas ensure convenience and comfort throughout the journey. Then, Each day, the camp’s chef meticulously crafts hot meals using fresh ingredients, offering satisfying dinners and hearty breakfasts. But, afternoons are complemented with hot drinks and snacks, providing rejuvenation after a day of trekking through Kilimanjaro’s varied landscapes. Therefore, this combination of comfort and culinary delights significantly enhances the overall trekking experience on this iconic route.
7 Days from $1279 per person
Price is an estimate only and is dependant on group size, age of children, time of year and your choice of camps.
We can incorporate all kind of activities in your safari, like coffee farm tours, hot air balloon, Maasai cultural tours, canoe safari, zip-lining and hiking. See below for our optional extras.
The first day of your incredible journey up the Northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro is filled with anticipation. Also, you’ll receive a warm welcome at the airport from our driver, who’ll take care of all your luggage and transport you to the hotel in Moshi. However, After settling down, you’ll attend an orientation session with the team. But, our expert team leaders will guide you through all the essential details of your route and offer advice for a successful trek. Your hiking gear will then be thoroughly inspected and adjusted if necessary. Finally, the rest of the day is spent getting ready for your life-changing journey.
To streamline the itinerary to six days, skip the overnight stay in Karanga Valley and trek directly from Barranco Huts to Barafu Huts in a single day. However, this has Accompanied by experienced mountain guides, chefs, and porters, the journey starts through a cypress plantation within the montane forest. Look out for Kilimanjaro’s diverse wildlife, including birds and colobus monkeys. Hence, the hike typically spans 3 to 4 hours, covering approximately 6.5km in distance. Finally, the elevation rises from 1,800m/5,900ft to 2,600m/8,400ft, ensuring gradual acclimatization and preparation for the final ascent to the summit.
After breakfast, our hike continues through the forest. We will take our time, soaking in the scenery as we make our way through the moorlands. We will be treated to spectacular views of Kibo Peak.
Hiking: 4-6 hours.
But, Overnight Altitude: ~12,500′
Today is a long day, but lots of acclimatization as you climb high and sleep low. We will take an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower (~15,190’) for lunch before descending to the Barranco Valley. For those who have energy, and if time and weather permit, we can scramble up the Lava Tower itself. Therefore, the scenery is fantastic today, passing through different zones of the mountain.
Hiking: 6-8 hours
Therefore, the Overnight Altitude is: ~13,044′
Today, you’ll continue to acclimatize and let your body adjust to these higher altitudes in preparation for your upcoming summit push. Then, climb the steep Barranco Wall and descend several ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga camp. Hence, there will likely be time for an afternoon acclimatization hike.
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Then, the Overnight Altitude is: ~13,106′
Today, you’ll continue your circuit and arrive at your final camp before the summit (Barafu camp). The route includes ups and downs along ridges and valleys. But, you’ll have an early supper, sleep for a few hours, and then rise at about 11:00 PM to start tomorrow’s summit ascent.
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Therefore, the Overnight Altitude is: ~15,331′
Start hiking around midnight, using your headlamps to guide you slowly up to Stella Point and the summit. Due to the altitudeAltitudell hike slowly and must dress warmly for the cold. After celebrating with photos at the summit, descend to Mweka camp.
Hiking: 6-7 hours ascent to the summit, then 6-9 hours of descent
Summit: ~19,341′
Overnight AltitudeAltitude00′
Start hiking around midnight, using your headlamps to guide you slowly up to Stella Point and the summit. Due to the altitudeAltitudell hike slowly and must dress warmly for the cold. After celebrating with photos at the summit, descend to Mweka camp.
Hiking: 6-7 hours ascent to the summit, then 6-9 hours of descent
Summit: ~19,341′
Overnight AltitudeAltitude00′
Our representative will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight departure. Take the memories, the sense of accomplishment, and the everlasting bond with the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. If you decide to go on a Tanzania Safari, that’s a different adventure, and we’ll take care of that for you!
Our team lives and breathes Africa. That’s why you can trust us to tailor-make the most authentic and fulfilling African experience. Our team lives and breathes Africa. That’s why you can trust us to tailor-make the most authentic and fulfilling African experience.
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