Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - The drive from Moshi to the entrance of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park takes approximately 50 minutes. The route goes through the village of Machame, situated on the mountain’s lower slopes. Upon leaving the park gate, the trail winds through the rainforest, ascending a ridge. The lower sections of the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. The journey continues for a short distance until reaching Machame Camp.

Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, the trek leaves the rainforest glades and follows an ascending path, crossing a small valley and walking along a steep, rocky ridge covered with heather until the ridge ends. The path then turns west into a river gorge. Rest, dinner, and overnight stay are at the Shira campsite.

Elevation (ft): 9,400ft to 12,500ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - From the Shira Plateau, the trek continues east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo’s peak. The direction then shifts southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, the second junction leads up to the Arrow Glacier at 16,000ft. The descent continues to Barranco Hut at 13,000ft, where rest, dinner, and overnight stay occur. Although the day ends at the same elevation as it started, it is crucial for acclimatization, preparing the body for summit day.

Elevation (ft): 12,500ft to 13,000ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi Desert

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, the trek leaves Barranco and continues along a steep ridge, passing the Barranco Wall to reach the Karanga Valley campsite. This short day is designed for acclimatization.

Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 13,100ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, the trek leaves Karanga and reaches the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. The path continues up to Barafu Hut. At this point, the South Circuit is completed, offering views of the summit from various angles. Camp is set up here, with time to rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for summit day. The peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are visible from this location.

Elevation (ft): 13,100ft to 15,300ft
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park - Early in the morning, the trek continues towards the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. The path heads northwest, ascending through heavy scree to Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek.

At Stella Point (18,600 ft), a short rest is taken, offering the chance to witness a magnificent sunrise (weather permitting). From Stella Point, snow may be encountered during the 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent is reached. Faster hikers may see the sunrise from the summit. The descent continues straight down to Mweka Hut campsite, with a stop at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the loose gravel on the descent. Mweka Camp is located in the upper forest, where mist or rain is possible in the late afternoon.

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Moshi - After breakfast, the descent continues to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. At lower elevations, conditions can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are likely sufficient (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). From the gate, the journey continues for another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet at Mweka Village to drive back to the hotel in Moshi.

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Accommodation
• All park fees

• Personal gear rentals;
• Visa
• International flights

If you’re reading this, you’re probably interested in climbing Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. You’re in good company. Of the seven main routes used to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the Machame route is the most popular path. It is the route of choice for many people because it provides impressive views and a variety of habitats. About 50% of all climbers, and most seasoned climbers, choose the Machame route. It is also one of the cheaper routes due to its easy access and shorter itinerary.

The Machame route is also known as the Whiskey route, given its reputation for being a tough climb, in contrast to the easier Marangu route, which is known as the Coca Cola route. Unlike the gradual incline and hut accommodations found on the Marangu Route, the climbers on Machame hike steeper trails, for longer distances, while sleeping in tents.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.