7-Day Machame Route Trek Overview

Following breakfast, you will leave the lush rainforest behind and embark on a steep rocky ridge. As you ascend, you’ll cross a river gorge and head westward toward Shira Camp, situated on a volcanic plateau. This section provides magnificent views and offers a chance to adjust to the higher altitude.

• Elevation: 3,050m (9,950ft) to 3,850m (12,600ft)
• Distance: 5km (3 miles)
• Walking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Budget Camping

Today, you’ll head east along a ridge, passing the junction toward Kibo Peak. Your trek takes you to the Lava Tower (4,650m / 15,250ft), also known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” Afterward, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp for your overnight stay. Although you descend to a similar elevation, this day is crucial for acclimatization as it helps your body prepare for the summit push.

• Elevation: 3,850m (12,600ft) to 4,000m (13,000ft)
• Distance: 10km (6 miles)
• Walking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Semi-desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Budget Camping

After breakfast, prepare to tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb that rewards you with stunning views of the mountain. After scaling the wall, you’ll head towards Karanga Camp via Karanga Valley, where you’ll rest and refuel before continuing to Barafu Camp the next day.

• Elevation: 4,000m (13,000ft) to 4,050m (13,250ft)
• Distance: 5km (3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Budget Camping

The day begins with a steady climb towards Barafu Camp, marking the completion of the South Circuit. From here, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro from various angles. Take some time to rest, have a hearty dinner, and prepare mentally and physically for the summit ascent that begins very early the next morning.

• Elevation: 4,050m (13,250ft) to 4,700m (15,350ft)
• Distance: 4km (2 miles)
• Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Budget Camping

This is the day you’ve been waiting for—the summit day. Departing from Barafu Camp between midnight and 2 am, you will make your way toward Stella Point on the crater rim, braving steep scree and cold temperatures. After reaching Stella Point at 5,730m (18,600ft), you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. From here, you’ll begin your descent to Mweka Camp, where you’ll rest after a long day.

• Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
• Accommodation: Budget Camping
• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinks: Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
• Note: This is the longest and most challenging day of the trek.

After breakfast, you'll descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Park Gate, collecting your summit certificates. The trail through the forest is wet and muddy, so be prepared with gaiters and trekking poles. Once at the gate, you’ll board a vehicle for a scenic 2-hour drive back to Arusha.

• Elevation: 3,090m (10,150ft) to 1,680m (5,500ft)
• Distance: 10km (6 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinks: Beer and Wine (Other drinks not included)