6-Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Your 6-day Kilimanjaro adventure via the Machame Route begins at Machame Gate, where you’ll be greeted by the stunning backdrop of the rainforest-clad slopes. After registration and introductions to your experienced guides and porters, the trail winds its way through the lush rainforest, offering glimpses of unique flora and fauna. As you ascend, the air becomes crisper, and the vegetation transforms. The day’s trek concludes at Machame Camp, a serene spot nestled amidst the towering trees, providing the perfect introduction to the challenges and beauty that lie ahead.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Leaving the rainforest behind, you emerge into the heath and moorland zone. The trail steepens as you ascend the Shira Plateau, revealing expansive views of the surrounding landscapes. The unique flora of the alpine desert becomes more apparent, showcasing the hardy plant life that thrives in these higher altitudes. Shira Camp becomes your resting place for the night, perched at a strategic vantage point on the plateau, offering breathtaking panoramas and a sense of accomplishment after a day of challenging yet rewarding trekking.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

The day’s trek begins with a steady ascent to Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation standing at 15,190 feet (4,630 meters). This challenging climb serves as an excellent acclimatization opportunity, and from its heights, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views. The descent to Barranco Camp follows, where you’ll navigate the impressive Barranco Wall, a thrilling rock scramble that adds a touch of adventure to the day’s journey. Barranco Camp, situated in a picturesque valley beneath the wall, provides a tranquil setting for the night.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Today’s trek involves a mix of ascents and descents, taking you through the Karanga Valley. The scenic trail provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes, and the challenges of the day are balanced by the breathtaking scenery. Karanga Camp, your destination for the night, is strategically located at a higher elevation, preparing you for the final push to the summit. As the day ends, the sense of camaraderie among your fellow trekkers deepens, creating lasting bonds forged in the face of Kilimanjaro’s challenges.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

As you ascend to Barafu Camp, situated at 15,331 feet (4,670 meters), the landscape transforms into an otherworldly alpine desert. The air becomes thinner, and the surroundings take on a surreal, almost lunar quality. Barafu Camp serves as your base for the summit attempt, and the anticipation of the challenge ahead is palpable. Rest, hydration, and mental preparation become crucial as you ready yourself for the exhilarating yet demanding climb to Uhuru Peak.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then Mweka Camp

The summit day begins in the early hours, guided by headlamps under the vast African night sky. The challenging ascent takes you through the frigid temperatures of the night, and as dawn breaks, you’ll reach the pinnacle of Mount Kilimanjaro – Uhuru Peak at 19,341 feet (5,895 meters). The sense of achievement and the panoramic views of the glaciers and distant plains make this moment truly unforgettable. After celebrating your summit success, the descent to Mweka Camp begins, allowing you to reflect on your incredible journey surrounded by the varied ecosystems that define Kilimanjaro’s unique allure.

Price includes:

1. Arrival and departure transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport, as well as shuttle transfer, Nairobi – Arusha – Nairobi, if flying to/from Nairobi.
2. Accommodation in mountain huts or mountain tents with mattresses; we use the highest quality of expedition tents by Eureka or Mountain Hardware.
3. Meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
4. All park fees, including mountain rescue fees, government taxes, and all applicable fees and taxes
5. Services of a professional leading guide who is medically trained, certified, licensed, and English speaking
6. Dining tent on the trek for meals
7. Services of English-speaking assistant guide(s), a skilled cook, and enough porters for a guest’s luggage, food, water, and dining tent
8. Transport back and forth from your hotel and the mountain
9. Use of radios/phones to increase your safety

Price Excludes

1. Items of personal nature such as passport, visa, traveler’s insurance, medical evacuation insurance ($50 value)
2. Tips to guides and porters
3. International airfare (unless explicitly stated)
4. Medical equipment which can be rented well in advance for the following costs:
   $250/group for hyperbaric chamber, $210/group for an emergency oxygen cylinder and $140/group for a stretcher. Please note these prices include a porter to carry the equipment.
5. Portable toilets: If you are concerned about using public toilets, a portable toilet is available for an extra $110/per person or $180/group. This service must be confirmed at the time of booking.

Note
The luggage that porters are allowed to carry is limited to 35 pounds (ie: 15 kgs)
Overweight or extra luggage will require an extra porter at a rate of $10/bag/day
You can leave extra luggage at your hotel in Arusha or at our office (do not leave any valuables like cash, jewelry, electronics, etc)