6 / 7-Day Machame Route – Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Itinerary

Welcome to Tanzania!

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly team will meet and transfer you to your comfortable hotel in Moshi. Nestled at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi offers a stunning introduction to your adventure. After checking in, relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings as we conduct a detailed trek briefing and gear check. This is your chance to ask questions and prepare for the journey ahead.

• Accommodation: Moshi Hotel (bed & breakfast)
• Activities: Trek briefing, gear check

Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles) | Hiking Time: 5-7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

(1,800m/5,905ft) to (3,000m/9,843ft)

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate, where you’ll register and meet your mountain crew. The trek starts through lush rainforests alive with birdsong, monkeys, and towering trees. As the trail gradually ascends, the dense forest gives way to clearings that reveal breathtaking views. You’ll arrive at Machame Camp, your first overnight stop, surrounded by the tranquility of the forest.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Machame Camp (tented)

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) | Hiking Time: 4-6 hours | Habitat: Moorland

(3,000m/9,843ft) to (3,840m/12,598ft)

Today’s hike takes you out of the rainforest and into the dramatic moorland zone. The trail ascends steeply, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. As you climb higher, the vegetation changes to giant heathers and lobelias, a unique feature of Kilimanjaro. After a rewarding hike, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp, situated on a plateau with breathtaking views of Mount Meru and the Kibo Peak.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Shira Camp (tented)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Hiking Time: 6-8 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert.

(3,840m/12,598ft) to (3,950m/12,959ft)

Acclimatization is the focus of today’s trek. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic rock formation that stands at 4,630m, before descending to Barranco Camp. The climb to Lava Tower is challenging but essential for your body to adjust to the altitude. The descent to Barranco introduces you to the famed Barranco Wall and offers incredible views of the glaciers.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tented)

Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles) | Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert

(3,950m/12,959ft) to (3,995m/13,106ft)

Today begins with a thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble offering panoramic views. Once you conquer the wall, the trail becomes gentler, leading you through scenic valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp. This shorter day allows for additional acclimatization and relaxation as you prepare for the summit push.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tented)

Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) | Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert

(3,995m/13,106ft) to (4,673m/15,331ft)

Your journey continues to Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit attempt. The trail is steep but manageable, leading you through barren, moon-like landscapes. Upon arrival at Barafu, you’ll have time to rest, refuel, and mentally prepare for the midnight summit push. Early dinner and early rest are essential tonight.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tented)

Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles) | Hiking Time: 10-15 hours | Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Summit night! You’ll begin the climb around midnight, trekking through the cold under a starlit sky. This is the most challenging part of the journey, but your determination and support from the guides will get you to Stella Point. After a brief rest, you’ll make the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating at the summit, you’ll begin the descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tented)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

(3,067m/10,062ft) to (1,640m/5,380ft)

Your final day on Kilimanjaro is a gentle descent through lush rainforests to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your summit certificate as a proud reminder of your achievement. Afterward, you’ll transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved celebration and rest.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Moshi Hotel