Embark on a Thrilling 6-Day Adventure: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route with for Trekking and (KCTE)

Welcome to a life-changing journey with KCTE, your expert guides in scaling the breathtaking heights of Mount Kilimanjaro. As a premier tour operator based in Tanzania, we are dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable and safe . Our carefully curated 6-day itinerary on the Machame Route is designed to optimize your and maximize your chances of reaching the summit. Let us take you through the lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and icy paths to the roof of Africa!

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania

Location: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi
Accommodation: Top Hotels in Moshi

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a warm greeting from a KCTE representative awaits you. We will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to one of the top-rated hotels in Moshi, where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. Use this day to acclimate to the and enjoy the amenities of your chosen accommodation.

Day 1: Moshi to Machame Camp

Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m
Distance: 11 km
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat:

After breakfast at your hotel, we embark on a short drive to the Machame Gate, where you'll meet your guides and porters. After completing the necessary park paperwork, your trek begins! The first day's hike through the dense rainforest is filled with the calls of tropical birds and the occasional sighting of monkeys. The trail is moderate, allowing you to gently adjust to the increasing altitude. Tonight, you camp at Machame Camp, nestled among the giant heathers, where dinner and a well-deserved rest await.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m
Distance: 5 km
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Rise early for breakfast before setting out towards the Shira Plateau. As the forest thins out, the trail enters the zone, offering expansive views of the mountain and its surrounding landscapes. The climb today is shorter but steeper, a true test of your endurance. Your arrival at Shira Camp provides time for rest. Here, above the clouds, you will enjoy your dinner with vistas of a spectacular sunset.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,840m to 4,630m to 3,950m
Distance: 10 km
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert

This crucial acclimatization day involves walking up to the Lava Tower (4,630m) and then descending to . The trek up to Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic rock formation, involves a gradual elevation increase. This part of the route provides phenomenal views of the Western Breach and Breach Wall. After lunch at Lava Tower, descend to Barranco Camp through the striking Senecio Forest. The day ends at the iconic Barranco Wall, presenting a photogenic backdrop for your campsite.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,950m to 3,995m
Distance: 5 km
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert

Tackle the Barranco Wall in the morning, which may require some light scrambling but no technical climbing. Reaching the top of the Wall is exhilarating and offers an unforgettable view of Kibo's southern glaciers. The trail then winds up and down, crossing streams before reaching Karanga Camp. The short trekking time today aids further acclimatization while allowing you to rest in the afternoon or take a short acclimatization walk.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
Distance: 4 km
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert

After breakfast, embark on a climb that leads you to Barafu Camp. Despite the shorter distance, the path is steep, traversing barren landscapes with vast views across the mountain. After setting up camp, partake in an early dinner and get some rest. You will need plenty of energy for the midnight summit attempt.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m to 3,100m
Distance: 17 km
Trekking Time: 11-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic

The most challenging yet rewarding day begins around midnight. Layer up for the extreme cold as you ascend under the stars. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has sections of simple scrambling. Reaching Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim presents a magnificent sunrise. With a final push, you trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Here, standing above the clouds, you truly feel on top of the world. After celebrating your achievement, begin the descent to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
Distance: 10 km
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making the final descent to Mweka Gate. The path is steep and can be slippery if wet. Your completion of the trek will be celebrated with a farewell lunch at the gate. Collect your summit certificate, a badge of honor to cherish forever. From here, a KCTE vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in Moshi.

Day 8: Departure Day

Savor a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before we escort you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey home. Reflect on the memories and friendships forged over this incredible adventure.

What's Included:

  • All transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport and between hotel and park gates
  • Accommodation in Moshi (first and last night)
  • All meals on the mountain
  • Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees
  • Salaries for guides, cooks, and porters
  • Camping equipment (excluding sleeping bag)
  • Complimentary oxygen cylinder for emergency use only

What's Not Included:

  • Flights
  • Tanzanian visa
  • Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking poles, etc.
  • for guides, porters, and cook
  • Personal expenses

For inquiries or further customization of your trek, please us at info@mt-kilimanjaro.com or call us at +255 753 700 700.

Embark on this majestic trek with KCTE and experience the magic of Kilimanjaro. Every step you take is another level of discovery. Let's conquer the roof of Africa together!