MACHAME GATE – MACHAME CAMP: 10.75km / 7mi | 5-6 hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 1811m/5942ft to 3021m/9911ft
Altitude gained: 1210m

Starting from Moshi, a 45-minute drive leads through the Village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Here, permits are issued amidst the lively preparations of various crews for the journey ahead. Enjoy the stunning rainforest scenery and winding trails as the guide shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail may be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

MACHAME CAMP – SHIRA CAMP: 5.3km/3mi | 4-5hrs | Moorland

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3021m/9911ft to 3839m/12,595ft
Altitude gained: 818m

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the journey continues from the rainforest along an ascending path, crossing a valley and a steep rocky ridge. The route turns west into a river gorge, leading to the Shira campsite. Temperatures begin to drop.

SHIRA CAMP – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP: 10.75km/6mi | 5-6hrs | Semi-Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3839m/12,595ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 147m

Although the day ends at a similar elevation as it began, it is crucial for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau, the path ascends east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo peak, then continues southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after, a second junction leads to the Arrow Glacier. The descent continues to Barranco Camp for the night.

BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP: 5.2km/3mi | 3-4hrs | Alpine Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
Altitude gained: 48m

After breakfast, the trek continues up a steep ridge to the adventurous Barranco Wall, then to the Karanga Valley and the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. This day showcases the crew’s impressive agility and strength as they navigate the wall with apparent ease. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

HIKE KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 3.3km /2 mi | 3-4hrs | Alpine Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 628m

The journey continues upward to Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which offers stunning views of the summit from various angles. An early dinner and rest are planned in preparation for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT: 4.86km /3mi up | 5-7hrs | – MWEKA CAMP: 11.5km /7.2mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers,

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1233m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m

Excitement builds as the day begins early, between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek.

The path leads to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, focusing on the incredible sense of achievement ahead. With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction, the ascent continues through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. A short rest here offers a magnificent sunrise view. Faster hikers may witness the sunrise from the summit. The final hour’s ascent to Uhuru Peak is likely to be snowy.

Congratulations, step by step, Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa, has been reached!

MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI: 9.1km/6mi |3-4hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

On the final day, the descent continues to Mweka Gate, where summit certificates are collected. At lower elevations, conditions may be wet and muddy. From the gate, the journey continues for another hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle awaits to drive back to the hotel in Moshi.

• Hiking and safety equipment provided
• All entry fees included
• Comfortable tented accommodation
• Experienced climbing crew support
• Meals provided: lunch, dinner, and breakfast

• Tip for the crew
• visa

Also recognized as the Whisky Route, the Machame trail stands as one of the most picturesque and suggested paths on Kilimanjaro. This well-frequented track journeys through splendid woodlands to reach a ridge that eventually leads through the moorland zones to the Shira Plateau. From there, it moves below the glaciated cliffs of the Southern Ice fields to connect with the Barafu Trail towards the top. Due to the ability to complete it over extended periods and its relatively bearable incline, it boasts a significantly high rate of successful summits.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.