Machame Route Mt Kilimanjaro Trekking

You will be picked up by your guide and assistant guide. There’s a fair chance that the majority of the team will be joining you in the van. The others will be met at the gate. All the stuff that is carried by the porters needs to be weighed at the gate. To kill time and to get you properly fueled, the cook will have already cooked up a small meal for you. You won’t be alone here. There are likely a few dozen climbers waiting to start. The guide will ask you to fill out some paperwork, and then you’re off.

Soon you will be hiking through the lush rainforest with its large ancient trees, primeval ferns, and endemic flowers, like the Impatiens Kilimanjaro. You might also spot black and white thumbless colobus monkeys peeking through the leaves. Reaching the campsite, you will have time to relax, stretch your legs, and enjoy a hearty meal before snuggling into your tent for the night.

The cook’s assistant will wake you up and bring you your tea or coffee. He’ll ask you for your bottles, so he can fill them up for you. 15 minutes later, there will be a complete breakfast ready for you. Climbing Kilimanjaro is hard, but the good care and food definitely make it a whole lot easier. Think eggs, pancakes, toast – whatever you want. Vegetarian? No problem. Gluten-Free? Coming right up.

Today, you will ascend to Shira Camp. You will notice the dramatic change in the landscape as you get out of the rainforest and find dry moor and heathland. It may not look like it, but Shira Camp is at a whopping 3,845 meters or 12,616 feet. You can take the whole day for your trek, enjoying the views on the way, chatting to fellow climbers, and listening to the interesting stories from your guide(s). The easier you go, the better you will acclimate.

Shira Camp (3,845m) – Lava Tower Hut (4,640m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)

Today is vital for acclimatization. After breakfast and the daily “wishy-washy” (a warm tub of water and soap), you begin your trek toward Lava Tower. As you ascend, the effects of higher altitude may begin to show—try some mental math for fun and see how your brain responds! The climb becomes more gradual, and the changing landscapes are truly breathtaking. Along this stretch, you’ll be joined by trekkers from the Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes.
Lava Tower stands at 4,640 meters (15,000 ft), where you’ll stop for lunch and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. After some time here, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters (12,992 ft), roughly the same elevation as Shira Camp. Spending time at a higher altitude before sleeping lower altitude supports your body’s acclimatization process. Barranco Camp is scenic and serene—rest well here, as tomorrow you’ll face the iconic Barranco Wall!

Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Camp (3,930m)

Today, you face the challenge of conquering the Barranco Wall. While certain sections may demand the use of your hands for improved grip, actual climbing is not required. Your guide will be right alongside you, offering assistance every step of the way. Our video demonstrates that the experience isn’t as daunting as some blog posts might suggest.

The route’s series of ascents and descents serves as a valuable acclimatization opportunity before reaching the mountain ridge. Walking along this ridge allows you to absorb the stunning landscape, characterized by captivating contrasts between desert and vegetation. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the mist-shrouded Karanga Camp, positioned at 4,035 meters (13,240 ft). Even through the clouds, Kibo remains visible, while the call of Uhuru Peak beckons.

Karanga Camp (3,930m) to Barafu Camp (4,700m)

Another day unfolds on the captivating slopes of Kilimanjaro. The meticulous acclimatization efforts you’ve undertaken are paying off. By maintaining a steady “pole pole” pace, the summit will draw near sooner than you realize. Today’s journey leads you through arid desert terrain, with the imposing presence of Kibo on your left side.

Although the distance covered is short, the altitude’s effects will be noticeable, adding to the challenge. You’ll embrace the gradual approach and heed the guidance of your knowledgeable guide(s). As this day concludes, anticipation builds for the significant day that lies ahead —an early night awaits for the journey that unfolds tomorrow.

You’ll be woken in the middle of the night with a light breakfast and warm drink. It’s summit day, despite feeling the effects of altitude, food, and water help you prepare. Guided by moonlight and headlamps, you begin the tough climb to Stella Point, reaching the crater rim in 5 –7 hours. From there, it’s another 1 – 2 hours to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. You’ll watch the sun rise over the continent, a moment of true triumph. After photos and celebration, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest, snacks, and cheers from your team. Then, you’ll continue to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain. It’s a long, unforgettable day full of emotion, challenge, and awe. From camp, you’ll look back at Kibo and reflect: you stood on that peak just this morning. One last dinner, one last wishy-washy, and most likely, the tipping ceremony is a special time to thank your crew for helping make your summit dream a reality.

Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,800m) to Moshi

The more you descend, the better your oxygen intake. The better your oxygen intake, the better your body and mind work. It’s all sinking now. You’ve ascended Kilimanjaro. You will once more trek through the rainforest, giving you another opportunity to spot the cheeky colobus monkeys, finally reaching the Mweka gate in about 2 – 3 hours. In Mweka, after some paperwork, another meal awaits you. While you’re at it, your guide will present you with your climbing certificate. Well done.

After some good food and a celebration, you will be taken back to your hotel. It’s time to rest those legs. Jump in the pool, eat, drink, and sleep.