The Machame Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its scenic beauty and varied landscapes. A 6-day hike along this route typically includes good acclimatization opportunities. Here’s a sample itinerary for a 6-day Machame Route trek:
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)**
- Transfer to a hotel in Moshi or Arusha for acclimatization and trek briefing.
- Overnight stay in hotel.
Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate.
Trekking Begins: Register with park authorities before starting the hike.
Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles).
Trekking Duration: About 5-7 hours.
Terrain: Start in tropical rainforest with rich vegetation.
Campsite: Machame Camp (2,843 m / 9,300 ft).
- **Overnight:** Camp.
Morning: Breakfast and trek to Shira Camp.
Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles).
Trekking Duration: About 4-6 hours.
Highlights: Scenic views and hiking through moorland.
Campsite: Shira Camp (3,840 m / 12,534 ft).
Overnight: Camp.
Morning: Breakfast and start the trek toward Barranco Camp.
Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles).
Trekking Duration: About 6-8 hours.
Highlights: Move across the Shira Plateau, with stunning views of Kibo Peak.
Campsite: Barranco Camp (3,960 m / 12,995 ft).
Overnight: Camp.
Morning: Breakfast and tackle the Barranco Wall (a non-technical climb).
Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles).
Trekking Duration:About 4-5 hours.
Highlights: Beautiful views from the top of the Barranco Wall.
Campsite: Karanga Camp (4,035 m / 13,202 ft).
Afternoon:Option for a short acclimatization hike.
Overnight:Camp.
Morning: Breakfast and head to Barafu Camp.
Distance: Approximately 4 km (2.5 miles).
Trekking Duration: About 3-4 hours.
Highlights:The camp at Barafu offers stunning views of the summit.
Campsite: Barafu Camp (4,640 m / 15,223 ft).
Afternoon: Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
Overnight: Camp.
Night: Begin the ascent around midnight.
Distance to Summit: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) to the summit.
Time: 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft) followed by descent back to Barafu Camp (2-3 hours).
Early Morning: Reach Uhuru Peak for sunrise.
After Breakfast:Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m / 10,171 ft).
Distance: Approximately 13 km (8 miles).
Descent Duration: About 5-7 hours.
Campsite: Mweka Camp.
Overnight: Camp.
Morning: Breakfast and then descend to Mweka Gate.
Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles).
Descent Duration: About 3-4 hours.
Celebrate Completion: Receive your summit certificates.
Transfer Back: Drive back to Moshi or Arusha.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Relaxation:Enjoy the morning; local sightseeing or shopping.
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.
Acclimatization: Make sure to stay hydrated and take the climb slowly to aid acclimatization.
Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially at higher altitudes.
- This itinerary can be customized based on your pace, preferences, and the trekking company’s guidelines. Make sure to confirm details with your tour operator.
Enjoy your adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro!
Cost Includes
- All accommodation as stipulated in the itinerary;
- All Meal
- Complimentary mineral water
- English/ French Speaking Driver Guide
- Transport
- Oxygen and oxymeter
- Toilet
- All transfers and activities
- Park fee, Conservation fees and Community Development Fees
- Crew Fees and salaries ( Guides, Cook and Porters)
- All prices are VAT inclusive.
Cost Excludes
- International flights
- Entry visa fees
- Tips or Gratuities for the staff
- Personal expenses such as beverages and laundry.
- Telephones, e-mail and fax bills
- Personal and travel insurance (extremely important)
