6-Day Tanzania Machame Route, Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Machame Gate - Machame Camp

The exciting trek from Machame Gate to Machame Camp starts on Day 1 of the Machame Route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Hikers begin their journey at the 1,800-meter Machame Gate, where a 10-kilometer track leads them through the beautiful, green jungle. This first part of the climb is distinguished by a thick canopy of old trees, bright mosses, and a variety of unusual plants and animals. The air becomes colder and the greenery thins as the trail meanders higher, offering glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s spectacular slopes now and again. Climbers arrive at Machame Camp (2,835 meters), tucked away in a clearing with a clear view of the surrounding forest and the imposing peak above, after 5-7 hours of tough climbing. Here, hikers prepare for their first mountain night and relish their accomplishments as well as the tranquil beauty of their high-altitude surroundings.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Machame Camp - Shira Camp

The journey from Machame Camp to Shira Camp on Day 2 of the Machame Route starts with a slow climb through the woodland that eventually gives way to a heath zone with unusual flora, including huge heathers and lobelias. As the route gets closer to the Shira Plateau, it gets steeper and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Trekkers should expect to spend 5–6 hours on this portion of the ascent, reaching an elevation of around 3,840 meters (12,600 feet) before they arrive at Shira Camp. The camp itself is situated on a stunning, broad plateau that offers sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s summit and is a great place to acclimate. Trekkers may relax, acclimate, and take in the gorgeous surroundings here while getting ready for the following day’s adventure.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Shira Camp - Lava Tower - Barranco Camp

On Day 3, one of the most important days for acclimatization on Mount Kilimanjaro is the hike from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower. From the Shira Plateau, the road progressively climbs through the area of moorland with its limited flora, ultimately leading to the striking Lava Tower at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). Trekkers enter the picturesque Barranco Valley, surrounded by imposing cliffs and studded with enormous senecios and lobelias, after climbing the tower. Climbers can better acclimate to the altitude and increase their chances of success in the coming days by descending to Barranco Camp, which is located at 3,960 meters (12,990 ft). This portion of the voyage, with its steep climb and subsequent fall, not only puts your physical stamina to the test but also gets your body ready for the next higher heights.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Barranco Camp - Barafu Camp

The day begins with the formidable Barranco Wall, a steep, rocky ascent that requires minor scrambling but rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After conquering the wall, the trail descends into the picturesque Karanga Valley, a lush area of rolling hills and greenery. This relatively easier portion allows trekkers to catch their breath and soak in the mountain’s grandeur. As the journey continues, the terrain becomes increasingly barren and rocky, with fewer signs of plant life as the altitude rises. The final stretch to Barafu Camp is challenging, navigating a windy and narrow slope, but it’s a rewarding achievement.

Barafu Camp, perched at an elevation of 4,673 meters, serves as the base camp for the final push to Uhuru Peak. Trekkers use this stop to relax, acclimate, and prepare for the summit attempt. The rugged beauty of Barafu Camp and the anticipation of reaching Kilimanjaro’s peak make this day a memorable highlight of the expedition.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Uhuru Peak - Millennium Camp

It’s a lengthy walk on Day 5 from Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp. Following the exciting but difficult climb to 5,895-meter-high Uhuru Peak, the journey back down starts with a retrace of steps to Stella Point and then a continuation around the crater rim. Tired legs must negotiate rough scree and steep trails on the descent to Barafu Camp, which is an endurance challenge. After passing through an area of alpine dryness, the route finally descends to the rich moorland vegetation. At 3,820 meters, climbers find a warm place to rest and recover at Millennium Camp. Surrounded by colorful flora and the sounds of far-off wildlife, it’s a stark yet lovely contrast to the bleak peak they scaled earlier in the day.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate

The last part of your amazing Kilimanjaro adventure starts at Millennium Camp on Day 6 and descends to Mweka Gate. The shift in view as you make your way down through the lush, colorful rainforest is revitalizing and refreshing, and the sound of the rustling leaves and the sounds of wildlife provide a calming backdrop. After the strenuous physical ascent, the primarily downhill and clearly marked track makes for a relaxing and contemplative stroll. You’ll finish your journey at Mweka Gate, where your summit certificates will be given to you as a symbol of your tenacity and resolve. This is a time to celebrate not only reaching the summit but the full journey—from planning to the friendships formed along the way.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.