After a short drive to the Machame trailhead (~5,380 ft), check in with park rangers and begin your trek. The hike takes you through the lush montane forest, rich with mosses, ferns, and towering trees. The path winds upwards, eventually reaching Machame Camp.

• Highlights: Dense rainforests, moss-covered trees, and bird calls.
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Overnight Altitude: ~9,350 ft

Leaving the forest, the trail ascends into the moorland zone with its unique vegetation, such as giant lobelias and groundsels. Take in stunning views of Kibo Peak as you make your way to Shira Camp on the plateau.

• Highlights: Moorland vegetation and panoramic views of Kibo Peak.
• Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
• Overnight Altitude: ~12,500 ft

A challenging yet rewarding day as you ascend to Lava Tower (~15,190 ft) for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. The climb high, sleep low approach aids your body in adjusting to the altitude. For those feeling adventurous, weather permitting, a scramble up Lava Tower can be an added thrill.

• Highlights: Lava Tower, diverse ecosystems, and the beautiful Barranco Valley.
• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
• Overnight Altitude: ~13,044 ft

Start the day with an exhilarating climb up the Great Barranco Wall. Then, traverse rolling ridges and valleys, acclimatizing further as you head to Karanga Camp. If time and energy allow, an acclimatization hike in the afternoon is recommended.

• Highlights: Stunning views of the southern ice fields and the thrill of the Barranco Wall.
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Overnight Altitude: ~13,106 ft

A relatively short trek brings you to Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit. Upon arrival, settle in, enjoy an early dinner, and rest. Around 11:00 PM, you’ll begin your summit ascent under the stars.

• Highlights: Dramatic landscapes and preparation for the summit push.
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Overnight Altitude: ~15,331 ft

Begin your summit push at midnight, using headlamps to navigate the steep ascent. Slowly but steadily, you’ll reach Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,341 ft. After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Barafu Camp for rest and lunch before continuing to Mweka Camp.

• Highlights: Sunrise at Uhuru Peak, breathtaking crater views, and a sense of achievement.
• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours to summit; 6–9 hours descent
• Summit Altitude: ~19,341 ft
• Overnight Altitude: ~10,500 ft

On your final day, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Enjoy your last moments on the mountain before bidding farewell to the crew. From here, drive back to Arusha for a hot shower and celebratory dinner.

• Highlights: Tropical rainforest and your triumphant return.
• Hiking Time: 3–5 hours

Why Choose the Machame Route?

• Stunning diversity of landscapes, from rainforests to alpine deserts.
• Excellent acclimatization profile with “climb high, sleep low.”
• A challenging but rewarding adventure for trekkers seeking an authentic Kilimanjaro experience.

Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro? Book your Machame Route climb today!