6-Days Itinerary Machame Route

Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to Machame Gate – Forest Beginnings

Arrival and Preparation: Your journey commences with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to the Machame Gate. After necessary formalities, the trek begins in the lush rainforest. The day’s trek is a gentle introduction, providing a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna that characterize the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro.

Camp in the Forest: Reach Machame Camp, nestled in the heart of the forest, and settle into your first campsite. The evening is spent under the canopy of ancient trees, preparing for the ascent that lies ahead.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp – Transition to Moorland

Elevation Gain: As you ascend through the forest, the landscape transforms into heath and moorland. The Machame Route is known for its gradual ascent, allowing for better acclimatization. Navigate through the scenic rolling hills with awe-inspiring views of the Shira Plateau.

Camp at Shira: Arrive at Shira Camp, situated on the Shira Plateau, and witness the expansive vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The day ends with a mesmerizing sunset over the African plains, offering a preview of the challenges and beauty that await.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp – Lava Tower and Alpine Deserts

Acclimatization at Lava Tower: Today involves a trek to the Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation at high altitude. This allows for crucial acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. The panoramic views of the alpine desert and surrounding peaks are awe-inspiring.

Barranco Wall Challenge: Navigate the Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble that brings a sense of achievement and offers breathtaking views. Arrive at Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall, and settle in for a well-deserved rest.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp – Alpine Desert Adventure

Scenic Trekking: The day begins with a trek through the alpine desert, offering unparalleled views of the rugged terrain and distant glaciers. This stretch of the journey is both challenging and visually rewarding.

Karanga Camp: Arrive at Karanga Camp, strategically positioned for acclimatization and preparation for the final ascent. The stark beauty of the landscape provides a stark contrast to the lushness of the earlier days.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp – Summit Ascent Begins

Final Push to Barafu: The trek to Barafu Camp marks the commencement of the summit ascent. Ascend through rocky terrain and reach the barren landscapes of Barafu, the base camp for the final push to Uhuru Peak.

Pre-Summit Preparation: Spend the afternoon at Barafu preparing for the summit bid. Rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the challenging night ahead. As the sun sets, the camp is filled with a palpable sense of anticipation.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp – Summit Triumph

Summit Ascent: Begin the summit bid in the early hours, trekking through the steep and challenging terrain illuminated by headlamps. Reach Stella Point at the edge of the crater rim and, from there, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness the sunrise over the vast plains, a moment of triumph and elation.

Descent to Mweka Camp: Descend to Mweka Camp, allowing for recovery and a well-deserved rest. The descent offers an opportunity to reflect on the incredible accomplishment and enjoy the changing landscapes.

The inclusive price for the 6-day Machame Route covers essential elements necessary for a successful and comfortable trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. Keep in mind that the following breakdown is a generalization, and actual prices may vary depending on various factors, such as the tour operator, group size, and additional services offered.

1. Guided Trekking Package:
   • Professional mountain guides
   • Support staff, including porters and cooks
   • All necessary permits and park fees
2. Accommodation:
   • Pre and post-trek accommodations
   • Camping equipment during the trek (tents, sleeping bags, etc.)
3. Meals:
   • All meals during the trek, prepared by the trekking team
   • Snacks and refreshments
4. Transfers:
   • Airport transfers
   • Transportation to and from the Machame Gate trailhead
5. Logistics:
   • All logistical arrangements, including camping setups, dining facilities, and safety equipment
6. Summit Success Celebration:
   • Summit certificates
   • Celebration at the end of the trek
7. Safety Measures:
   • Emergency medical equipment and evacuation procedures
   • First aid support throughout the trek
8. Miscellaneous:
   • Trekking permits and entrance fees
   • Environmental fees

Exclusive Expenses Not Included in the Price: Participants should also consider additional expenses that are not included in the inclusive price.

1. Personal Gear:
   • Trekking gear and equipment (boots, backpacks, clothing, etc.)
   • Personal toiletries and medications
2. Travel Insurance:
   • Comprehensive travel and health insurance coverage
3. International Flights:
   • Airfare to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
4. Visa Fees:
   • Tanzania visa fees, if applicable
5. Additional Services:
   • Optional guided tours or excursions before or after the trek
   • Extra accommodation and meals outside the trek itinerary
6. Tips and Gratuities:
   • Tips for guides, porters, and trekking staff (customary and appreciated)
7. Personal Expenses:
   • Souvenirs, extra snacks, and personal spending
8. Optional Extras:
   • Any optional extras not covered in the standard package

To get accurate and specific pricing details, trekkers should communicate with their chosen tour operator. This ensures a clear understanding of what is included in the overall cost and what additional expenses they should anticipate during the 6-day Machame Route trek on Mount Kilimanjaro.