Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Depart from Arusha at 9am for Machame Gate, where the porters, guides, and cooks will join the trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, over the next six days. The journey through coffee plantations and villages to Machame Gate takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, wait at the gate as the climb is registered and the team makes final preparations. Trek to Machame Camp through the enchanting, moss-draped trees of Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. As the forest thins, enjoy the sight of heathers, tall grasses, and wildflowers. If the weather permits, take in the breathtaking views of Kibo Peak, your ultimate goal. The porters and cooks will advance to set up the campsite before your arrival.

Machame Camp to Shira

Kilimanjaro National Park - Today’s trek involves several uphill sections, so ensure to carry ample drinking water as it can be warm on a clear day. There are numerous viewpoints to admire the plains and forests below, and the majestic Kibo and Mawenzi peaks above. Observe the change in vegetation as altitude increases, with trees giving way to Kilimanjaro’s renowned high-altitude plants, Scenecio kilimanjari and Lobelia deckenii. After lunch, ascend the Shira Plateau, formed by Kibo’s lava flows filling the Shira crater. Proceed to Shira Camp and unwind for the remainder of the day. Kibo is to the west and Mount Meru to the east.

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Although this day involves both ascents and descents, it concludes with an elevation gain of only 110 meters. By early afternoon, ascend 690 meters to a height of 4,530 meters before descending to Barranco Camp. This day is vital for acclimatization. After breakfast, hike east on the Shira Plateau until reaching the junction for the Shira and Lemosho Routes. Continue through the desolate landscape before pausing for lunch. Shortly after lunch, reach the highest point of the day before descending swiftly to Barranco Camp. Faster hikers can opt for a detour via Lava Tower, a 300-foot lava formation protruding from the mountainside.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Depart Barranco Camp after breakfast for Karanga Valley. The day starts with a 90-minute scramble up the Barranco Wall, the most challenging part of the day, where hands may be needed to assist the climb. After reaching the summit, hike across relatively flat terrain before a short but steep descent into the lush Karanga River Valley.

Karanga Campsite to Barafu Campsite

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, commence the hike to Barafu Camp. En route to Barafu, view several of Kibo’s glaciers and the junction connecting the descent route, Mweka, with the Machame trail. On day four, pass by the Heim, Kersten, and Decken Glaciers. Although the trail to Barafu traverses an alpine desert with sparse vegetation, Barafu Camp provides stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Try to rest after dinner as the summit hike begins before midnight.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Around midnight, start the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. Hike by headlamp for the next six hours. The ascent to the crater rim is the most demanding part of the trek. The trail is steep until reaching the crater rim at Stella Point. The hike from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and relatively easy, though the altitude makes it long and tiring. The crater rim hike takes about one hour. Upon reaching Uhuru, capture photos of the guide and group at the peak before descending to Mweka Camp. On the descent from Uhuru, enjoy views of the mountain, crater, clouds, and glaciers. At Barafu Camp, have breakfast and take a brief rest. There are still three to five hours to go before reaching Mweka Camp.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, conclude the trek with a hike through the forest to Mweka Gate. The trail may be slippery after rain. Vehicles will meet at the lower station of Mweka Gate to transport you back to Arusha.

• Quality, waterproof, private mountain sleeping tents
• Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
• Professional, experienced, mountain guides
• Lunch
• All meals while on the Mountain
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Clean, purified drinking water
• All Park fees, Rescue fees

• Person climbing gear
• Tipping
• Visa

This is our second most popular route, providing convenient access to the trailhead, diverse scenery along the way, and a western ascent. Barranco Camp, the third campsite on this route, is a favorite among our mountain staff. As the most popular camping route overall, you’ll be accompanied by many fellow climbers. We provide exceptional service, meticulous route planning, and top-quality equipment to ensure a hassle-free trek and a successful summit. Originally established as a Kilimanjaro trekking company, we have been leading climbs up Kili and Meru for nearly two decades. Mountaineering support remains a vital part of our business. With our extensive experience in organizing treks, we are well-equipped to support you in achieving a successful and safe summit, while also ensuring an enjoyable and fulfilling hiking experience.

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