Machame Route
- Climbing Kilimanjaro
- 9 Days
The Machame Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular trails. The winding path ascends the southwestern slopes, then curves east beneath the shadow of Kibo Peak before turning north toward the summit. Along the way, trekkers are treated to dramatic and varied landscapes. With a well-paced acclimatization profile, Machame also offers a high summit success rate, making it a favorite choice for climbers seeking both beauty and achievement.
From
2,890
per person
- Detailed Itinerary
- Inclusion
- Accommodation
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Briefing
If you’ve booked an airport transfer, we’ll meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport and drive you to the lodge. Here, you’ll meet your fellow trekkers and your lead guide, who will provide a full briefing on the climb ahead. Take some time to relax by the pool and enjoy your final night of comfort before the adventure begins!
Day 2: Begin the Climb
Today starts early with a drive from Moshi to Rongai Gate (1,950 m / 6,398 ft) on Kilimanjaro’s northern side. After registration and unpacking your gear, the trek officially begins. The trail winds through lush rainforest as you make your way to Simba Camp at 2,830 m (9,285 ft). This first day’s hike takes about four hours and is relatively gentle, offering beautiful scenery while helping you ease into the climb.
Day 3: Ascend into the Heath Zone
After an early breakfast, the trail climbs out of the rainforest and into the moorland, or heath, zone. Along the way, you’ll cross several streams and traverse a plateau that leads to Shira Cave Camp at 3,810 m. From the campsite, enjoy spectacular views of the Western Breach and its glaciers. Today’s hike takes approximately five to six hours, offering a scenic and rewarding journey through this unique high-altitude landscape.
Day 4: Climb to Lava Tower
Today’s trek has two main sections: an ascent to Lava Tower at 4,630 m, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp at 3,967 m. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps with proper acclimatization. Along the way, enjoy lunch at the striking Lava Tower rock formation. Barranco Camp sits at the base of the dramatic Barranco Wall, providing an impressive backdrop for your evening. The full day’s hike takes around six to eight hours.
Day 5: Tackle Barranco Wall
After an early breakfast, you’ll face the Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that often looks more intimidating than it is. Many trekkers find this section enjoyable, and the shared challenge fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. After conquering the wall, the trail continues with gentle ups and downs until you reach Karanga Camp at 3,995 m. Today’s hike takes approximately four to five hours in total.
Day 6: Trek Through the Alpine Desert
The climb is getting serious! Today, you ascend for about three hours through the stark alpine desert to reach Barafu Camp at 4,673 m. The high-altitude scenery offers incredible views of the mountain as you approach the summit zone. Tonight, you’ll turn in early, as your crew will wake you around midnight with tea and biscuits to prepare for the long and challenging summit trek ahead.
Day 7: Summit Day!
The moment you’ve been preparing for is here! Starting around midnight, you begin the final push toward the summit. Focus on one step at a time, trusting in your strength and endurance. You’ll reach Stella Point on the crater rim around sunrise, enjoying spectacular views, and after about an hour more, arrive at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, the descent begins, taking six to eight hours down to Mweka Camp at 3,068 m.
Day 8: Final Descent
On the last day, you descend the remaining section of the mountain to Marangu Gate at 1,843 m (6,046 ft). The hike takes around five to seven hours, mostly downhill, giving your legs a chance to enjoy a gentler pace. At the gate, the traditional tipping ceremony celebrates your guides, and you’ll receive your climb certificates. From there, it’s on to the lodge, where hot showers, cold drinks, and a well-earned sense of accomplishment await!
Day 9: Departure Day
Today, we leave Kilimanjaro behind, carrying unforgettable memories from your trek. If you’re flying home or onward to Zanzibar, we’ll transfer you to the airport. For those continuing the adventure, the journey moves west into Tanzania’s spectacular safari regions, where more wildlife and unforgettable experiences await.
Inclusion
- Arrival and departure transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel.
- 9 nights of accommodation: 2 nights in hotel (arrival/departure) and 7 nights on the mountain in tents.
- All meals on the mountain: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Professional Kili Legends and Safaris mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue/evacuation fees.
- Trekking equipment on the mountain: tents, sleeping mats, and dining facilities.
- Summit certificates upon reaching Uhuru Peak.
- Bottled water on the trek (1–2 liters per day per person).
- Kilimanjaro route briefing and itinerary preparation.
Not Included
- International flights to/from Tanzania.
- Visa fees for Tanzania.
- Travel and personal insurance (highly recommended, must include mountain rescue coverage).
- Tips for guides, porters, and support staff.
- Personal trekking gear (warm clothing, boots, sleeping bags, trekking poles).
- Drinks and snacks not provided on the trek.
- Optional hotel extras (laundry, bar, or spa services).
- Any additional activities outside the Kilimanjaro trek.
Where you'll stay
Lindrin Lodge
Lindrin Lodge in the town of Moshi offers chalet accommodation in a pretty and well-maintained garden setting.
