Overview
Embark on an adventure like no other along the Machame Route, often hailed as the most picturesque path up Mount Kilimanjaro. This route promises a diverse environment, offering stunning vistas of Mount Meru and the majestic Kibo. Affectionately known as the “whiskey route,” it attracts adventurous hikers seeking a thrilling ascent.
Unlike the Marangu route, where accommodation is in huts, on the Machame route, you’ll stay at camping sites in tents. Here, your dedicated mountain crew will have everything prepared for you, ensuring a comfortable journey amidst the rugged wilderness.
Choose between the 6- and 7-day Machame route options. While the 7-day itinerary allows for an extra day of acclimatization, crucial for a successful summit bid, the 6-day option is feasible for skilled and athletic climbers. If opting for the 6-day route, you’ll forgo spending a night at Karanga camp on day 4, proceeding directly to Barafu camp, the base camp, where you’ll rest briefly before commencing your midnight climb to the summit. Embark on this remarkable journey and conquer Kilimanjaro’s breathtaking peaks with determination and awe-inspiring vistas at every step.
Itinerary
Step into the gateway of your Kilimanjaro adventure as you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Here, you'll be greeted with open arms and a warm smile, ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Your journey begins with a seamless transfer to your hotel in the charming towns of Arusha or Moshi, where you'll enjoy a relaxing overnight stay filled with delectable dinner and hearty breakfast delights. As you settle in, your experienced guide will extend a warm welcome, briefing you on the exciting trek that lies ahead.
Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime as your guide conducts an equipment check, ensuring you have all the necessary mountain gear for the expedition. Any missing gear can easily be rented on this day, ensuring you're fully prepared for the exhilarating ascent that awaits. Let the anticipation build as you soak in the beauty of Arusha or Moshi, setting the stage for the epic journey ahead.
Set your sights on adventure as you embark on the thrilling trek from Moshi to Machame Gate, marking the beginning of your epic ascent up Mount Kilimanjaro.
The day kicks off with a rejuvenating breakfast followed by a comprehensive briefing, ensuring you're fully prepared for the exhilarating journey ahead. After fueling up, a scenic 45-minute drive from Moshi takes you to the Machame Park Gate, where the real adventure begins.
With the Machame Gate as your starting point, you'll delve into the lush greenery of the rainforest, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. As you navigate through the forest, keep an eye out for the enchanting flora and fauna that call this pristine wilderness home. Don't forget to replenish your energy with a refreshing lunch pack provided at the gate, accompanied by bottled water from Evergreen Escape Adventure.
Though rain may grace the forest canopy, adding a touch of mystique to your journey, the damp trails only enhance the sense of adventure as you press onward. As evening descends, the dedicated porters will ensure your comfort by boiling drinking and washing water, while the skilled cook prepares a sumptuous dinner to savor under the starry African sky. Prepare to cozy up in your tent at Machame camp, where the crisp mountain air hints at the exhilarating adventures that lie ahead.
As dawn breaks over Machame Camp, you're greeted by the promise of another day filled with adventure and breathtaking scenery.
With an early start, you embark on a picturesque ascent, gradually leaving the verdant forest behind and venturing into the expansive moorland zone. The gentle gradient of the terrain invites you to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the landscape as you traverse across undulating slopes.
After a well-deserved lunch break, you continue your ascent, tackling a rugged slope that leads you to the awe-inspiring Shira plateau. Here, against the backdrop of the towering Western Breach and its majestic glaciers, you're treated to panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
As you reach Shira Camp at 3,840 meters, a sense of accomplishment washes over you, mingled with anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. Amidst the rugged terrain, the dedicated porters ensure your comfort by boiling drinking and cleaning water, preparing a hearty meal to replenish your energy stores. As night falls and temperatures plummet, you settle into your campsite, cocooned by the chill of the mountain air, eagerly anticipating the wonders of the journey yet to unfold.
Embarking on the next leg of your journey from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp, you'll traverse a landscape of rugged beauty and awe-inspiring vistas.
As the trail winds its way eastward, you'll find yourself immersed in a semi-desert terrain, surrounded by rocky outcrops and towering peaks. Amidst this rugged expanse, the iconic Lava Tower emerges, standing as a testament to the raw power and grandeur of nature.
Reaching an elevation of 4630 meters after a challenging 5-hour hike, you'll pause for a well-deserved lunch, soaking in the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before you. The rough scree path to Lava Tower presents its own set of challenges, yet with each step, you draw closer to a deeper connection with the mountain.
Descending over 680 meters to Barranco Camp, you'll witness the landscape transform before your eyes, offering glimpses of the Western Breach and Breach Wall in all their splendor. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the valley below, you'll find solace in the tranquility of Barranco Camp, where hearty meals and restful slumber await, ensuring you're ready to embrace the adventures that lie ahead.
Embark on a day filled with excitement and adventure as you tackle the formidable Barranco Wall, a challenge that promises both exhilaration and breathtaking views.
With determination and skill, navigate the rocky terrain and steep ascents of the Barranco Wall, overcoming obstacles with each upward step. As you ascend, immerse yourself in the sheer beauty of the surrounding landscape, with vistas that inspire awe and wonder.
After conquering the wall, continue your journey through picturesque valleys and along rugged ridges, forging ahead towards the tranquil haven of Karanga Camp. Here, amidst stunning panoramas of Kibo's southern glacier, find respite and rejuvenation, surrounded by the majesty of the mountain.
With a total trekking time of 4-5 hours, this leg of the journey offers a perfect balance of challenge and serenity, preparing you for the adventures that await as you continue your ascent towards the summit of Kilimanjaro.
As night descends upon the rugged terrain of Karanga Camp, take heed of the surroundings and ensure your safety amidst the challenging conditions.
Perched upon a small, stony ridge, the campsite offers little shelter from the relentless winds that sweep across the landscape. Take caution and familiarize yourself with the area before darkness falls, minimizing the risk of mishaps as you prepare for the night ahead.
With the summit looming 1345 meters above, ready yourself for the final ascent under the cloak of night. Equip yourself with essential gear, including ski sticks, thermal clothing, and a fully charged headlight and camera batteries. Ensure you have spare essentials and carry water in a thermal flask to stave off the biting cold.
As the hour grows late, retire to your tent and seek restorative sleep, knowing that the journey to the summit awaits with the dawn. With preparations complete and determination in your heart, embrace the night and the promise of a triumphant ascent to the pinnacle of Kilimanjaro.
Under the cloak of midnight, embark on a courageous ascent from Barafu Camp, tracing a path northwestward up the southeastern valley towards Stella Point on the crater rim.
Over the course of six challenging hours, navigate the rugged terrain, both mentally and physically demanding, with the steep cliff just below Stella Point posing a formidable test of endurance and determination.
The whims of weather and wind shall guide your progress, determining the duration of your stay upon the peak. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Kilimanjaro, at 5895 meters, revel in the triumph of your ascent and the breathtaking vistas that stretch before you.
As the journey continues, prepare for the descent back to Mweka Camp, a trek that may span more than seven hours. With each step, carry the memories of your summit achievement, a testament to your resilience and the indomitable spirit that led you to conquer the towering heights of Kilimanjaro.
After a hearty breakfast, commence your descent from the Mweka Gate, winding your way down through the verdant forest trails. Though often muddy, the journey back to Mweka village is a picturesque stroll, taking approximately an hour to complete.
Upon reaching Mweka village, embark on a short drive to your hotel, where a sumptuous hot lunch and a rejuvenating shower await you, offering respite after your mountain adventure. As twilight descends, settle into the comfort of your accommodations in Arusha or Moshi, reminiscing upon the unforgettable moments shared amidst Kilimanjaro's majestic peaks.
Before bidding farewell to your guide and companions, consider expressing your gratitude through tips, a gesture deeply appreciated and warmly received. At your hotel, receive your well-deserved summit certificate, a tangible symbol of your remarkable journey. Whether adorned with the green certificate of Stella Point or the prestigious gold certificate of Uhuru Peak, treasure this memento as a testament to your courage, perseverance, and the awe-inspiring heights you conquered upon Africa's tallest peak.
INCLUDED:
- • Two nights accommodation at the Hotel in Arusha or Moshi (before and after the climb)
- o First night includes breakfast
- o Last night includes dinner & breakfast
- • Return transportation from Moshi to/from the starting/finishing point on the mountain
- • Qualified guides with mountain crew
- • National park fees
- • Tents and sleeping mattresses
- • Cutlery / Crockery / Eating utensils
- • Mess tent (for dining) / Mini camping chairs / Tables / Candles
- • Rescue fees
- • Airport Transfers to JRO- kilimanjaro International Airport
- • Pulse oximeters
- • First aid kit
- • Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
- • Boiled water on the mountain
- • All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
- • Guides, porters, waiter, cook accommodation and entry fees on the mountain
EXCLUDED:
- • Single rooms supplement at Springlands Hotel (except on the 1 person rate)
- • Guides, Porters, Cook & Waiters tips
- • Meals and drinks not specified
- • Gear for your climb
- • Items of personal nature
- • Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
- • Visas
- • Emergency oxygen