9 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Machame Route (7-Day Trek + 2 Nights Hotel Stay)

Transfer to Machame Gate for registration. Begin trekking through the lush montane rainforest, one of the most beautiful ecosystems on the mountain. Expect a humid atmosphere, shaded trails, and sightings of colobus monkeys and tropical birds. Arrive at Machame Camp, where your team will have your tents set up and a warm dinner ready. Altitude: 1,800m → 3,010m Hiking Distance: 11 km Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Today’s hike starts with a steep climb up a rocky ridge, gradually transitioning from forest to heath and moorland. The landscape opens up to breathtaking views of Mount Meru and rolling clouds as you approach the expansive Shira Plateau, a prehistoric lava flow. Arrive at Shira Camp, where temperatures begin to drop significantly at night. Altitude: 3,010m → 3,840m Hiking Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

A full acclimatization day, following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. Ascend steadily toward the Lava Tower, where you will stop for lunch surrounded by towering volcanic rock formations. Afterward, descend into the lush Barranco Valley, filled with giant senecio and lobelia plants. This day is critical for improving oxygen adaptation and increasing summit success. Altitude: 3,840m → 4,630m → 3,960m Hiking Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Start your morning with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but thrilling ascent that rewards you with spectacular views of the southern ice fields. Continue across rolling terrain before arriving at Karanga Camp, often used as an acclimatization stop. Altitude: 3,960m → 4,200m Hiking Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Today is a short but steep climb to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. You will pass through a stark alpine desert characterized by volcanic gravel and strong winds. Arrive early, have a hot dinner, and prepare for the midnight summit push. Your guide will go over safety, pacing, hydration, and layering. Altitude: 4,200m → 4,673m Hiking Distance: 4 km Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

This is the most physically and mentally demanding day of your trek. Start the ascent around midnight, hiking slowly up steep switchbacks toward Stella Point (5,756m). Reach Stella Point at sunrise for one of the most breathtaking moments of your life. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate, take photos beside the iconic summit sign, then descend back to Barafu and continue further down to Mweka Camp. Altitude: 4,673m → 5,895m → 3,100m Hiking Distance: 17 km Hiking Time: 13–15 hours

Descend to Mweka Gate through the dense rainforest. After signing out and receiving your Kilimanjaro summit certificate, your driver will transfer you back to Moshi. Enjoy a warm shower, a celebratory dinner (optional), and relaxation at your hotel. Altitude: 3,100m → 1,640m Hiking Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Depending on your flight time, you may explore Moshi town before your airport transfer. Extension options such as a Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach holiday can be arranged through Zungu Travel.