Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: The Machame Route (7 Days)

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: The Machame Route (7 Days)

This itinerary outlines the 7-day Machame Route trek on Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey that takes you through various ecological zones and offers breathtaking views.

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (Rain Forest)

The trek begins with a drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, followed by a hike through the lush rain forest. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. You’ll reach Machame Camp at around 9,400ft for rest and dinner.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (Moorland)

After breakfast, you’ll leave the rain forest and enter the moorland zone. The path gets steeper as you ascend towards Shira Camp, reaching an elevation of 12,500ft. This day is shorter but still crucial for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (Semi-Desert)

Day 3 takes you further east on the Shira Plateau, passing the junction towards Kibo Peak (summit). You’ll then head south towards the Lava Tower, a distinctive rock formation. This section leads to the Barranco Camp at 13,000ft, where you’ll camp for the night.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (Alpine Desert)

A short hike on Day 4 leads you from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp, located at a similar altitude (13,100ft). This day serves primarily for acclimatization, allowing your body to rest and cope better with the upcoming climb.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (Alpine Desert)

Leaving Karanga, you’ll join the Mweka Trail and ascend to Barafu Camp at 15,300ft. This marks the completion of the South Circuit, offering panoramic views of the mountain from different angles. Here, you’ll rest, have dinner, and prepare for the challenging summit push on the next day.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut (Arctic)

Summit day is a very early start, typically between midnight and 2 am. You’ll head towards the summit through scree fields, a loose and rocky terrain, ultimately reaching Stella Point (18,600ft) for a well-deserved rest and a spectacular sunrise (weather permitting). From here, you can expect snow all the way to Uhuru Peak, the highest point at 19,345ft. After conquering the summit, you’ll descend all the way to Mweka Camp (10,000ft) for your final night on the mountain.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Moshi (Rain Forest)

The last day involves a descent through the rain forest back to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. The trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and poles are again helpful. After reaching the gate, you’ll be transported back to Moshi, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.