Climb Mount Kilimanjaro — Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 m — via the Machame Route, one of the most popular and picturesque trekking paths on the mountain. Over seven days, you’ll ascend through diverse ecosystems including rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and glacial terrain, finally reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise. The Machame Route offers excellent acclimatization, stunning scenery, and a high summit success rate.

This itinerary is ideal for adventurous trekkers who want to balance a challenging climb with dramatic landscapes, professional guiding, and great support from porters and staff.

Route Highlights

✔ Panoramic views across the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall
✔ Gradual acclimatization for summit success
✔ Diverse terrain from rainforest to alpine desert
✔ Expert support crew of guides and porters
✔ Celebrate on Uhuru Peak — the roof of Africa
✔ Descent via the scenic Mweka Route

Pricing

Package Type	Price Per Person (USD)	Notes
Standard Camping	$2,400	Shared tents & dining setup
Luxury Camping / Tented Lodge	$3,200	Private tents & upgraded camping meals
Private Guide & Porter	+$400	Optional bespoke support
Airport Pickup (Arusha/Moshi)	Included	From Kilimanjaro International Airport

DAY 1: ARUSHA/MOSHI – MACHAME GATE – MACHAME CAMP

Pickup at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, then transfer to Machame Gate (1,795 m) for registration. Begin your trek into the Montane rainforest with a gradual climb to Machame Camp (2,835 m).

ACCOMMODATION: Machame Camp (tents)
MEALS: Lunch, Dinner

DAY 2: MACHAME CAMP – SHIRA CAMP

After breakfast, ascend above the forest into the Shira Plateau, crossing moorlands with wide views of Kilimanjaro’s west. Continue to Shira Camp (3,745 m).

ACCOMMODATION: Shira Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: SHIRA CAMP – BARRANCO CAMP

Trek eastward toward the Lava Tower (4,630 m) — an excellent acclimatization point — before descending to Barranco Camp (3,960 m) near the iconic Barranco Wall.

ACCOMMODATION: Barranco Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP

Climb the Barranco Wall, then descend into the Karanga Valley, approaching the alpine desert zone as you go. Trekking today enhances acclimatization and prepares you for higher altitudes.

ACCOMMODATION: Karanga Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP

Continue to Barafu Camp (4,673 m), your base for the final summit push. After lunch, rest and prepare for the late‑night ascent.

ACCOMMODATION: Barafu Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP – UHURU PEAK – MWEKA CAMP

The summit attempt begins around midnight. Ascend through the night to reach Stella Point (5,685 m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) for breathtaking views from the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m).

ACCOMMODATION: Mweka Camp
MEALS: Early Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – ARUSHA/MOSHI

Finish your descent through the montane forest to Mweka Gate, where your summit certificate awaits. Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for well‑earned rest and final departure.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

Essential Gear Checklist

Clothing:

• Moisture‑wicking base layers
• Insulating fleece or down jacket
• Waterproof/windproof jacket & pants
• Trekking shirts & pants (quick‑dry)
• Warm hat, gloves, and buff
• Hiking socks (several pairs)
• Headlamp with extra batteries

Footwear:

• Well‑broken‑in trekking boots
• Camp shoes or sandals

Gear & Accessories:

• Sleeping bag (−10 °C / 14 °F rating)
• Daypack (20–30 L)
• Trekking poles
• Water bottles or hydration bladder
• Sunglasses & high SPF sunscreen
• Personal first‑aid kit & toiletries
• Camera for stunning views

Optional Items:

• Lightweight gaiters
• Hand warmers (summit night)
• Snacks & energy bars
• Travel towel

Difficulty & Best Time to Climb

The Machame Route is considered moderate to challenging. The best climbing windows are during the dry seasons: January–March and June–October for clearer trails and optimal summit condition