Moshi to Machame Gate

Kilimanjaro National Park - The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate takes approximately 45 minutes, passing through the village of Machame situated on the mountain’s lower slopes.

The journey begins at the park gate, leading through the rainforest on a winding trail up a ridge. At lower elevations, the path may be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. The trek continues for a short distance until reaching Machame Camp.

Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3050m/9950ft
Distance: 11km/7mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, the trek leaves the rainforest glades and continues on an ascending path, crossing the valley along a steep rocky ridge. The route then turns west into a river gorge, leading to the Shira campsite.

Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - From the Shira Plateau, the trek continues east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo’s peak. The direction then shifts southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, the path reaches the second junction leading to the Arrow Glacier. The journey then descends to Barranco Camp. Although the day ends at a similar elevation as it began, this day is crucial for acclimatization, preparing the body for summit day.

Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, the trek leaves Barranco and ascends a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall (elev 4250m/13,900ft), through the Karanga Valley (elev 4050m/13,250ft) to the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. The journey continues to Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from various angles. The camp is set with views of the summit in the distance.

Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 9km/6mi
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - In the early morning hours (midnight to 2 am), the trek continues to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. The path heads northwest, ascending through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. At Stella Point, a short rest is taken, offering a chance to witness a magnificent sunrise. Faster hikers may reach the summit in time for the sunrise.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, the descent continues to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. At lower elevations, conditions may be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are likely sufficient, but rain gear and warmer clothing should be kept handy.

A Monkey Adventures vehicle will be waiting at Mweka gate to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, a journey of about 60 minutes.

Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast

• Prossional guides
• Proffesional guide
• Other
• Chef and cook
• Park fees
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast

• Visa
• International Flights

Known as the “Whiskey” route, this path is renowned for being somewhat challenging and more costly than the Marangu route.

When comparing the various routes to climb Kilimanjaro, this is among the top choices, offering excellent acclimatization and value.

The Machame route is regarded as a challenging path, ideal for adventurous trekkers with some hiking or backpacking experience.

The Machame route is both scenically stunning and diverse. However, its popularity means there are more trekkers, which slightly diminishes its charm. This route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends via the Mweka route, providing climbers with views of the vast Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, a climb up the Great Barranco wall, and a traverse beneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field.

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