Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Machame - Depart from Arusha at 9am for Machame Gate, where the porters, guides, and cooks will join the group for the six-day journey to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The drive through coffee plantations and villages to Machame Gate takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, wait at the gate while the climb is registered and the porters and guides finalize preparations. Trek to Machame Camp through the enchanting, moss-draped trees of Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. As the forest thins, enjoy the heathers, tall grasses, and wildflowers. If the weather is clear, take in the breathtaking views of the ultimate goal, Kibo Peak. The porters and cooks will go ahead to set up the campsite before the group arrives.

Machame Camp to Shira

Kilimanjaro National Park - Today’s trek includes several uphill sections, so carry plenty of water as it can be warm when hiking on a clear day. There are several viewpoints to admire the plains and forests below, and the majestic Kibo and Mawenzi peaks above. Notice the change in vegetation as altitude increases. The trees become smaller, giving way to Kilimanjaro’s renowned high-altitude plants, Scenecio kilimanjari and Lobelia deckenii. After lunch, ascend the Shira Plateau, formed when Kibo’s lava flows filled the Shira crater. Continue to Shira Camp and relax for the remainder of the day. Kibo lies to the west and Mount Meru to the east.

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Although this day involves both ascents and descents, it ends with an elevation gain of only 110 meters. By early afternoon, climb 690 meters to a height of 4,530 meters before descending to Barranco Camp. This day is essential for acclimatization. After breakfast, hike east on the Shira Plateau before reaching the junction for the Shira and Lemosho Routes. Continue through the barren landscape before stopping for lunch. Shortly after lunch, reach the highest point of the day before descending quickly to Barranco Camp. Faster hikers can take a detour via Lava Tower, a 300-foot lava formation protruding from the mountainside.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Depart Barranco Camp after breakfast for Karanga Valley. The day begins with a 1.5-hour scramble up the Barranco Wall. This is the most challenging part of the day, and in some areas, hands may be needed to assist the climb. After reaching the top, hike through relatively level terrain before making a short but steep descent into the lush Karanga River Valley.

Karanga Campsite to Barafu Campsite

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, start the hike to Barafu Camp. On the way, view several of Kibo’s glaciers and the junction connecting the descent route, Mweka, with the Machame trail. During day four, pass by the Heim, Kersten, and Decken Glaciers. Although the trail to Barafu traverses alpine desert with little vegetation, Barafu Camp offers stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Try to rest after dinner as the summit hike begins before midnight.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - Around midnight, begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. Hike by headlamp for the next six hours. The ascent to the crater rim is the most challenging part of the trek. The trail is steep until reaching the crater rim at Stella Point. The hike from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and, as hikes go, not very difficult. However, the altitude makes the hike long and tiring. The crater rim hike takes about one hour. Upon reaching Uhuru, take photos with the guide and group at the peak before descending to Mweka Camp. On the way down from Uhuru, enjoy views of the mountain, crater, clouds, and glaciers. At Barafu Camp, have breakfast and take a short break. There are still another three to five hours to go before reaching Mweka Camp.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Mweka - After breakfast, complete the trek with a hike through the forest to Mweka Gate. The trail may be slippery after rain. Vehicles will meet the group at the lower station of Mweka Gate to transport everyone back to Arusha.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Our second most popular route, this route offers easy access to the trailhead, varied scenery along the route, and ascends on the west. Barranco Camp, the third campsite on this route, is a favorite amongst our mountain staff. This is also the most popular camping route overall, so you will be joined by a lot of fellow climbers.

We offer superior service, route planning, and high-end equipment to ensure your trek is hassle free and that you’ll summit successfully.

We started out as a Kilimanjaro trekking company, and has been leading climbs up Kili and Meru for almost twenty years. Mountaineering support remains a key part of our business. With our long history of arranging treks, we know how to support you to summit successfully and safely, and to also have an enjoyable and rewarding hike getting there.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.