MACHAME GATE – MACHAME CAMP: 10.75km / 7mi | 5-6 hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 1811m/5942ft to 3021m/9911ft
Altitude gained: 1210m

Starting from Moshi, a 45-minute drive leads through the Village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Here, permits are issued amidst the lively preparations of various crews for the journey ahead. Enjoy the stunning rainforest scenery and winding trails as the guide shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

MACHAME CAMP – SHIRA CAMP: 5.3km/3mi | 4-5hrs | Moorland

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3021m/9911ft to 3839m/12,595ft
Altitude gained: 818m

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the journey continues from the rainforest along an ascending path, crossing a valley and a steep rocky ridge. The route turns west into a river gorge, leading to the Shira campsite. Temperatures begin to drop.

SHIRA CAMP – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP: 10.75km/6mi | 5-6hrs | Semi-Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3839m/12,595ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 147m

Although the day ends at a similar elevation as it began, it is crucial for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau, the path ascends east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo peak, then continues southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after, a second junction leads to the Arrow Glacier. The descent continues to Barranco Camp for the night.

BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 8.5km/5mi | 6-8hrs | Alpine Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 676m

Following breakfast, the trek continues up a steep ridge to the adventurous Barranco Wall, through the Karanga Valley, and to the junction with the Mweka Trail. This day showcases the crew’s impressive agility and strength as they navigate the wall with apparent ease. The journey proceeds to Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which offers breathtaking summit views from various angles. An early dinner and rest prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT: 4.86km /3mi up | 5-7hrs | – MWEKA CAMP: 13km /8mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1233m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m

Excitement builds as the day begins early, between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek.

The path leads to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, focusing on the incredible sense of achievement ahead. With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction, the ascent continues through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. Here, a magnificent sunrise awaits during a short rest. Faster hikers may witness the sunrise from the summit. The final hour to Uhuru Peak is likely to be snow-covered.

Congratulations, step by step, Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa, is reached!

MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI: 9.1km/6mi | 3-4hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with the crew, it’s time to bid farewell. The descent continues to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. With warmer weather, the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

From the gate, a vehicle will meet at Mweka village to drive back to the hotel in Moshi (approximately 30 minutes).

• Hiking and safety equipment
• Climbing crew
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Tented tents
• Entry fees
• Transfer to the trailhead - entry gate to Kilimanjaro National Park
• Meals

• Visa
• Tips for the crew

Frequently referred to as the ‘Whiskey’ route, the Machame route has become the favoured route up the mountain. In comparison to Marangu, the Machame days extend longer and require steeper climbs. The journey via the Machame route is viewed as challenging, and therefore more fitting for individuals who are drawn to adventure or have some experience with hiking or backpacking.

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