The Machame‑Mweka Route is one of the most popular Kilimanjaro climbing paths, combining the scenic ascent of the Machame Route with the classic Mweka descent. Over 8 days, this trek provides excellent acclimatization, dramatic landscapes, and a high success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — Africa’s tallest summit. This route traverses lush rainforests, sweeping moorlands, rugged alpine desert, and glaciated summit zones.

Perfect for adventurers who want a balanced challenge, panoramic views, and professional guide support.

Route Highlights

✔ Scenic ascent via the Machame Route’s varied terrain
✔ Gradual acclimatization for summit success
✔ Exhilarating summit push to Uhuru Peak
✔ Peaceful descent via the Mweka Route
✔ Experienced guides, cooks, and porters
✔ Diverse ecosystems — forest to alpine desert

Pricing

Package Type	Price Per Person (USD)	Notes
Standard Camping	$2,700	Shared tents & meals
Luxury Camping / Tented Lodge	$3,500	Upgraded tents & cuisine
Private Guide & Porter	+$450	Optional private support
Airport Pickup (Arusha/Moshi)	Included	From Kilimanjaro Int’l Airport

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

Pickup from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi and transfer to the Machame Gate (1,795 m) for registration. Enter rainforest terrain as you begin your trek to Machame Camp (2,835 m).

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

DAY 2: MACHAME CAMP – SHIRA CAMP

After breakfast, leave the forest and climb toward the Shira Plateau. Today’s trek offers your first expansive views of the high mountain landscape as you ascend to Shira Camp (3,500 m).

ACCOMMODATION: Shira Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: SHIRA CAMP – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP

Trek east across moorland toward Lava Tower (4,630 m) — a key acclimatization point. After reaching the tower, descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m) for rest.

ACCOMMODATION: Barranco Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP

Begin the day climbing the iconic Barranco Wall, then traverse to Karanga Valley and Karanga Camp (4,035 m). The terrain today is varied and rewarding.

ACCOMMODATION: Karanga Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP

Continue upward through alpine desert towards Barafu Camp (4,673 m) — your base for the summit push. Enjoy an early dinner and prepare for the late night ascent.

ACCOMMODATION: Barafu Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP – UHURU PEAK – BARAFU CAMP

Summit Day! Start around midnight and trek through the night toward Stella Point (5,685 m) at sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend partway back to Barafu Camp for rest.

ACCOMMODATION: Barafu Camp
MEALS: Light Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7: BARAFU CAMP – MWEKA CAMP

Continue your descent into the rainforest via the classic Mweka Route. Enjoy a relaxing trek through lush forest to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) with abundant birdlife and scenic views.

ACCOMMODATION: Mweka Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8: MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – ARUSHA/MOSHI

Complete your descent to Mweka Gate, receive your official summit certificate, and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for well‑earned rest or departure.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

ESSENTIAL GEAR CHECKLIST

Clothing:

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

Footwear:

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

Gear & Accessories:

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

Optional Items:

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

Difficulty & Best Time to Climb

The Machame‑Mweka Route is moderate to challenging, ideal for trekkers with good fitness. Best climbed during the dry seasons: January–March and June–October, for stable weather and higher summit success