7 Day Machame Route Detailed Itinerary
Day 0: Pre-trek Briefing
If you've opted for optional airport transfers, we'll pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Your adventure begins with a pre-trek briefing at your Moshi hotel, where you'll receive essential information about the trek ahead. Arriving at least one day before the trek start is recommended. On this day, we'll also review your equipment and assist with renting any necessary gear, ensuring you're fully prepared for your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Day 1: Hotel to Machame Camp
Drive from Arusha to Machame Gate, passing through the scenic village of Machame, nestled on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival at the park gate, we begin our trek through the lush rainforest, following a winding trail up a ridge. At lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for comfort and safety. After a steady climb, we arrive at the Machame Camp, where we'll rest and prepare for the next stage of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3050m/9950ft
Distance: 11km/7mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
After breakfast, we depart from the lush glades of the rainforest and continue along an ascending path, crossing a valley and climbing a steep rocky ridge. The route then turns west, following a river gorge as we make our way to the Shira campsite. This part of the trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems. The Shira campsite provides a perfect spot to relax and acclimatize, preparing you for the next exciting phase of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
From the Shira Plateau, we ascend east, passing the junction to Kibo's summit, then head southeast to the Lava Tower ("Shark's Tooth," 4650m/15,250ft). Afterward, we descend to Barranco Camp. While the elevation remains similar, this crucial acclimatization day helps prepare your body for summit day, offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro's dramatic landscapes.
Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, we depart from Barranco Camp and tackle the steep Barranco Wall, ascending to the Karanga Valley. Here, we reach the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. This challenging section offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and provides a rewarding experience as you continue your journey toward the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
We continue our ascent to Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which provides stunning panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro's summit from multiple angles. At Barafu, we set up camp, rest, enjoy a hearty dinner, and prepare for the highly anticipated summit day. This crucial stop ensures you're well-rested and ready for the final push to the peak of Africa's highest mountain.
Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 4km/2mi
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
Early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), we begin our challenging ascent toward the summit, passing the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. After reaching Stella Point on the crater rim, we rest and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise. Faster hikers may reach the summit for the sunrise at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
We then continue to the summit, where snow may accompany us. After reaching Uhuru Peak, we begin our descent to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the loose gravel. We celebrate our achievement and enjoy our final evening on the mountain at Mweka Camp.
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel
After breakfast, we begin our descent to the Mweka Park Gate, where you'll receive your well-earned summit certificate. As we descend to lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Light clothing, such as shorts and t-shirts, should be sufficient, but be sure to keep rain gear and warmer clothing on hand.
A Happy Way Safaris vehicle will be waiting at Mweka Gate to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, just a 60-minute drive away, allowing you to reflect on your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
