Machame Route – 6 Day Climb – King Solomon Safaris

Machame Route – 6-Day Climb

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Descriptions

The Machame Route is a six-day trek known for its steep sections and varied landscapes. Due to its good acclimatization profile, it’s the most popular route among trekkers.

Included

professional, English-speaking guide
mountain crew (cook & porters)
5 nights‘ stay in lodges and mountain huts
meals according to the itinerary
drinking water
all national park fees
all mentioned transfers

Excluded

flights (international and domestic)
meals not indicated in the itinerary
alcoholic and soft drinks
sleeping bag (can be rented at extra cost)
tips
personal expenses, visa fees, travel insurance

Itinerary

The Machame route stands out as one of the most picturesque paths leading to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Commencing amidst verdant rainforests, the ascent unveils intermittent glimpses of Mount Meru, the Shira Ridge, and the towering summit of Kilimanjaro – Kibo.

Distinguished by its steeper sections and greater altitudes than the Marangu and Rongai routes, the Machame route presents a slightly more challenging endeavor.

Day 1 | Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha

Distance approx. 35km; driving time approx. 45 minutes Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, our transfer driver will pick you up and escort you to the Meru View Lodge in the Usa River, just outside Arusha. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure—you may unwind at the lodge or venture into the town of Arusha (taxi services are available). Later in the evening, you'll participate in a briefing session to prepare for the forthcoming trek. Dinner and lodging will be provided at the Meru View Lodge.
Day 2 | Arusha – Machame Gate (1790m) – Machame Camp (3010m)

Altitude ↑1220m; walking time approx. 5-6 hours Following breakfast, you'll be collected from your accommodation and transported to the entrance gate of Kilimanjaro National Park. While your guide tends to registration formalities, you can observe the mountain team as they prepare for the ascent. Once all preparations are complete, your Kilimanjaro expedition will commence. Soon, you'll find yourself immersed in the awe-inspiring mountain rainforest, surrounded by ancient trees, primordial ferns, lianas, lichens, and moss that adorn the ground and cascade from the branches above. You may even hear the melodic calls and catch glimpses of the striking black and white colobus monkeys frolicking in the canopy. After a 5- to 6-hour trek, you'll arrive at today's destination: Machame Camp, perched just beyond the treeline at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, amidst this pristine wilderness, you'll enjoy your first dinner of the expedition before retiring for the night in tents. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 3 | Machame Camp (3010m) – New Shira Camp (3845m)

Altitude ↑835m; walking time approx. 4-6 hours Commencing with an early morning departure, the ascent becomes steeper as the terrain transitions into heath and moorland. The expansive vistas reveal the majestic mountain range in all its splendor. Today's journey is relatively shorter than the previous day, and you'll reach the New Shira Camp by mid-afternoon. Nestled amidst this picturesque setting, the camp offers a breathtaking mountain panorama. As the sun begins its descent, the evening spectacle illuminates Kibo's rock face and glacier, creating a mesmerizing display. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 4 | New Shira Camp (3845m) – Lava Tower (4640m) – Barranco Camp (3960m)

Altitude ↑795m|↓680m; walking time approx. 6-7 hours Today's ascent will span approximately 800 meters, yet you'll be camping at a slightly higher elevation than the previous night. This strategic approach allows your body to acclimate gradually, preparing for altitudes exceeding 4500 meters over the next two days. The journey commences with a lengthy climb above the Shira Plateau towards the iconic Lava Tower. As the landscape evolves into an afro-alpine desert, vegetation becomes sparse. En route, you'll traverse the expansive Barranco Valley, adorned with magnificent lobelia and towering giant Senecio plants. After a trek lasting 6 to 7 hours, you'll arrive at the picturesque Barranco Camp, widely regarded as one of the mountain's most scenic campsites. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 5 | Barranco Camp (3960m) – Barafu Camp (4640m)

Altitude ↑680m; walking time approx. 5-6 hours Today's journey commences with the challenging ascent of the Barranco Wall, where safety takes precedence, and your experienced guides will offer assistance as needed. Following the undulating ridge, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the southern glacier of Kibo. A well-deserved lunch awaits in the picturesque Karanga Valley, followed by a 2 to 3-hour ascent to the Barafu Camp. Upon reaching the camp, take the opportunity to unwind, savor a hearty dinner, and retire early for the night. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 6 | Barafu Camp (4640m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Mweka Camp (3080m)

Altitude ↑1255m|↓2815m; walking time approx. 10-14 hours The ascent begins at midnight after having a cup of tea and a snack. Guided by torchlight, you'll navigate the rugged screes of Kibo. After 5 to 7 hours of steady ascent in the darkness, you'll reach Stella Point (5730m), marking the crater rim of Mount Kilimanjaro. A 1 to 2-hour climb along the crater ridge leads to Uhuru Peak, offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro. Witness the majestic sunrise casting its golden glow over the landscape below as you stand atop the "Roof of Africa." The descent follows a familiar route, with the journey back to Barafu Camp expected to be completed shortly before midday. Here, the porters and cook eagerly await your return. Following a nourishing meal and a well-deserved rest lasting approximately 1 to 2 hours, you'll continue your descent to Mweka Camp. Here, a hearty supper and a restful night's sleep await. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 7 | Mweka Camp (3080m) – Mweka Gate (1630m) – Arusha

Altitude ↓1450m; walking time approx. 2-3 hours The concluding phase of your extraordinary journey commences following breakfast, marked by a traditional farewell ceremony conducted by the mountain crew. A leisurely descent spanning 2 to 3 hours through the enchanting rainforest leads you to Mweka Gate, where your driver awaits your arrival. From there, you'll be transported back to the Meru View Lodge. Upon your return, indulge in a refreshing hot shower before embracing the remainder of the day at your leisure. Whether you unwind by the poolside, celebrate your remarkable achievement, or rest, the choice is yours. Breakfast lunch dinner
Day 8 | Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport

Following breakfast, you'll receive transportation to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure. Alternatively, you can extend your stay in Tanzania and embark on a safari adventure or bask in relaxation along the shores of the Indian Ocean. Breakfast will be provided before your departure.

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