8-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro

8-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning views of the mountain, making it a favorite among climbers.

The Machame Route is a seven-day trek that begins in the lush rainforests at the base of the mountain and gradually ascends to the summit, passing through five different climatic zones. Climbers will pass through the moorlands, the Shira Plateau, the Barranco Wall, and the Karanga Valley before reaching the summit.

8-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro is challenging, but with proper preparation and a good guide, it is achievable for most climbers. It is important to acclimatize properly to the altitude, drink plenty of water, and take breaks as needed to prevent altitude sickness.

Overall, the Machame Route is a beautiful and rewarding trek that provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for climbers. With breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and a challenging climb to the summit, it is no wonder why this route is so popular among Kilimanjaro climbers.

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION

Kilimanjaro International Airport

DEPARTURE TIME

Please arrive at least 2 hours before the flight.

INCLUDED

	Professional driver-guide All park entry fees and government taxes Accommodation as per itinerary (usually in lodges or tented camps) Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof

NOT INCLUDED

International flights to and from Tanzania
Visa fees (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Tips for the driver-guide and lodge/camp staff
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (except for water)
Optional activities not specified in the itinerary (such as hot air balloon safaris)
Any additional expenses not mentioned in the itinerary

Arrival in Tanzania

You will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or another airport in Tanzania, depending on your travel plans. You will be met by a representative from your tour operator or accommodation provider, who will help you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, Arusha, or another location. Once you have checked into your hotel, you may have some free time to rest or explore the local area. Depending on your arrival time, your tour operator may also schedule a briefing or orientation session to go over your itinerary, safety information, and any other details for your trip. If you have any questions or concerns, this is a good time to ask your tour operator or hotel staff. You may also want to start acclimatizing to the local climate and altitude, especially if you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or go on a safari. In the evening, you can enjoy a meal at your hotel or venture out to try some local cuisine. Tanzania has a rich and diverse food culture, with influences from Swahili, Indian, and other cuisines. Some popular dishes include ugali (maize porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), and samosas (stuffed pastries).

Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)

After breakfast, you will depart from your hotel and drive to the Machame Gate, which is the starting point of the Machame Route climb. You will meet your mountain crew, including your guides, porters, and cook, and complete the necessary paperwork and registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities. Once you have been briefed on the day’s hike and safety guidelines, you will start hiking through the lush rainforest. The trail is well-defined and relatively easy, with gentle slopes and occasional streams. You may see some wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and small mammals, as you make your way to Machame Camp. As you gain altitude, you will start to feel the effects of the thinning air and changing climate. It’s important to take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness. Your guides will monitor your health and provide support as needed. After several hours of hiking, you will arrive at Machame Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 2,835m. You will have some time to rest and explore the campsite, which has basic facilities such as toilets and water sources. Your porters and cook will set up your tents and prepare a hot meal for dinner. In the evening, you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains, and get some rest for the next day’s hike. It’s important to get enough sleep and stay warm, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.

Machame Camp (2,835m) to Shira Camp

After breakfast, you will continue your climb up the Machame Route, leaving the rainforest behind and entering the heath and moorland zone. The trail becomes steeper and more challenging, with rocky terrain and occasional steep ascents. As you ascend, you will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Meru and the Shira Plateau. You may also see some unique plant and animal species that are adapted to the high-altitude environment, such as giant lobelias and birds of prey. After several hours of hiking, you will reach Shira Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 3,750m. This campsite offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding peaks and is known for its picturesque sunset and sunrise. Your porters and cook will set up your tents and prepare a hot meal for dinner, while your guides will monitor your health and provide support as needed. It’s important to continue to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks to prevent altitude sickness. In the evening, you can relax enjoy the stunning scenery, and get some rest for the next day’s hike. It’s important to get enough sleep and stay warm, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.

Shira Camp (3,750m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,976m)

After breakfast, you will continue your climb up the Machame Route, leaving the heath and moorland zone and entering the alpine desert zone. The trail becomes even steeper and more challenging, with rocky terrain and occasional scrambling. You will pass the iconic Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation that is a popular landmark on the route. This is a good spot to take a break and enjoy the views, as well as acclimatize to the high altitude. After a short break, you will continue hiking down to the Barranco Valley, which is known for its unique vegetation and stunning views. The trail descends steeply through rocky terrain, requiring careful footing and occasional use of hands. Once you reach the Barranco Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 3,976m, you will have some time to rest and explore the campsite. This campsite is famous for its impressive Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that you will climb the following day. Your porters and cook will set up your tents and prepare a hot meal for dinner, while your guides will monitor your health and provide support as needed. It’s important to continue to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks to prevent altitude sickness. In the evening, you can relax, enjoy the stunning scenery, and get some rest for the next day’s climb. It’s important to get enough sleep and stay warm, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.

Barranco Camp (3,976m) to Karanga Camp (3,995m)

After breakfast, you will begin your ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep and challenging climb that requires some scrambling and use of hands. Your guides will provide assistance and encouragement as you make your way up the wall. Once you reach the top of the wall, you will continue hiking along the mountain ridge, enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail descends into the Karanga Valley, where you will have lunch at the Karanga Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 3,995m. After lunch, you will have some time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Your porters and cook will set up your tents and prepare a hot meal for dinner, while your guides will monitor your health and provide support as needed. It’s important to continue to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks to prevent altitude sickness. You may experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, but these can usually be managed with rest and medication. In the evening, you can relax, enjoy the stunning scenery, and get some rest for the next day’s climb. It’s important to get enough sleep and stay warm, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.

Karanga Camp (3,995m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m)

After breakfast, you will continue your climb up the Machame Route, leaving the alpine desert zone and entering the arctic zone. The trail becomes steeper and more challenging, with rocky terrain and occasional scrambling. As you ascend, you will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Meru and the glaciers of Kilimanjaro. You may also see some unique plant and animal species that are adapted to the high-altitude environment, such as alpine flowers and birds. After several hours of hiking, you will reach Barafu Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 4,673m. This campsite offers panoramic views of the summit and the surrounding peaks and is known for its dramatic sunset and sunrise. Your porters and cook will set up your tents and prepare a hot meal for dinner, while your guides will monitor your health and provide support as needed. It’s important to continue to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks to prevent altitude sickness. In the evening, you will have an early dinner and rest up for the final summit push, which will begin at midnight. Your guides will give you a briefing on the summit climb and help you prepare your gear and clothing for the cold and windy conditions. It’s important to get enough rest and stay warm, as the next day will be a long and challenging climb to the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

You will be woken up at midnight for a light breakfast and then begin your final ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro. The trail is steep and challenging, with rocky and icy terrain, and you will need to use headlamps to navigate in the darkness. Your guides will lead you slowly and steadily up the mountain, taking frequent breaks to rest and drink water. As you climb higher, the air will become thinner and colder, and you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. After several hours of climbing, you will reach Stella Point, which is situated at an elevation of 5,739m. From here, you will have a breathtaking view of the sunrise over the crater rim and glaciers. You will rest briefly before continuing on to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, which is situated at an elevation of 5,895m. At the summit, you will have a few minutes to take photos and enjoy the incredible views, before beginning your descent back down the mountain. You will follow the same trail back to Barafu Camp, where you will have a rest and some lunch, before continuing down to Mweka Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 3,100m. The descent will be steep and challenging, and you will need to take care not to slip or fall. Your guides will provide support and encouragement as you make your way down the mountain. Once you reach Mweka Camp, you will have some time to rest and relax before enjoying a hot meal and a good night’s sleep.

Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)

After breakfast, you will say goodbye to your porters and begin your final descent down the mountain. The trail will take you through the lush rainforest zone, where you may see some wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and antelopes. As you descend, the air will become warmer and more humid, and the vegetation will become denser and greener. You may also notice some changes in your body, such as improved appetite and energy, as you acclimatize to the lower altitude. After several hours of hiking, you will reach Mweka Gate, which is situated at an elevation of 1,640m. Here, you will sign out with the park authorities, receive your summit certificates, and say goodbye to your guides. You will then transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can take a hot shower and rest up after your climb. In the evening, you may want to celebrate your achievement with dinner or drinks with your fellow climbers and reflect on your incredible experience climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.