6 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trekking
Overview
This package offers a well-rounded adventure, starting with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport. You’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to Springlands Hotel, where you'll enjoy a delicious meal and a pre-trekking briefing from our experienced coordinators. This briefing will ensure you’re well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The trek begins with a journey from Moshi to Machame Camp, where you’ll trek through the lush rainforest and ascend to higher elevations. As you continue, each day brings new terrains—from the moorlands of Shira Camp to the rocky landscapes around Lava Tower and Barranco Camp. The trek is designed with ample acclimatization breaks to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude while you enjoy breathtaking views. Your safety and comfort are our priority, with our dedicated team providing full support along the way.
The highlight of the trek is the ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point. The feeling of standing at the summit is truly unparalleled, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Afterward, the descent leads you back through Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes, concluding with a restful stay at Springlands Hotel.
For those looking to extend their adventure, safari options to explore Tanzania’s rich wildlife or a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar are available. This package is carefully designed to combine the physical challenge of the climb with ample opportunities to unwind and experience the beauty of Tanzania.
Let us help you conquer Kilimanjaro and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Included/Excluded
- Rescue fees (part of park fees)
- Conservation fees (part of park fees)
- Airport transfers
- A professional driver/guide
- International flights
- Entry Visa to Tanzania
- Travel and Health insurance
- Personal items
Tour Plan
Day 0: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport & Springlands Hotel
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our dedicated driver will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name to provide a warm and heartfelt welcome. From the airport, you will be comfortably transferred to Springlands Hotel, where your adventure begins.
At the hotel, you’ll be treated to a delicious meal to energize you for the exciting days ahead. Later in the day, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will provide a comprehensive pre-trekking briefing, giving you a glimpse of the wonders that await you during your expedition.
Take advantage of the relaxing environment at Springlands Hotel—enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, unwind in the beautiful garden, or relax with a drink at the bar. The hotel also features a restaurant, offering the perfect setting to recharge before your journey to the summit.
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
After a hearty breakfast and an informative briefing at your hotel, you’ll begin your 45-minute drive from Moshi to Machame Park Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll complete the registration process and receive your lunch pack for the journey ahead.
Your trek begins as you enter the lush rainforest, where the trail can be muddy and slippery if it has rained. The hike to Machame Camp covers 11 km and typically takes around 6 hours to complete. During this time, you’ll gradually ascend, enjoying the vibrant and diverse ecosystem of the rainforest.
In the evening, your porters will boil water for drinking and washing, while the cook prepares a satisfying dinner to nourish you after the day’s trek. As temperatures can drop to freezing, you’ll retire to your tent for a chilly yet rewarding night, surrounded by the beauty of the mountain.
Altitude: 910 m – 3,000 m
Hiking distance: 11 km
Hiking time: 6 hours
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
After a hearty breakfast at Machame Camp, you’ll begin your trek towards Shira Camp. The hike covers approximately 5 km and takes around 4 to 5 hours.
The trail starts with a steep ascent through the moorland zone, offering stunning views as you gain elevation. As you approach Shira Camp, you’ll be walking along a ridge with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape, including views of the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro.
Upon reaching Shira Camp, our porters will set up the tents and prepare a delicious lunch. You’ll have some time to relax and acclimate to the higher altitude before enjoying a satisfying dinner. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing on the plans for the next day’s trek, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Altitude: 3,000 m – 3,840 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
After breakfast at Shira Camp, you’ll embark on a challenging trek to Lava Tower, which reaches an altitude of 4,630 meters. The hike covers approximately 11 km and takes around 7 to 8 hours.
The trail passes through rocky, semi-desert terrain, offering spectacular views as you ascend. Once at Lava Tower, you’ll take a well-deserved break and enjoy lunch while soaking in the panoramic views.
Afterward, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters, which takes about 2 hours. During the descent, you’ll have the opportunity to witness breathtaking vistas of the Western Breach.
Upon arrival at Barranco Camp, our team will set up your tents, and the cook will prepare a delicious dinner. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the plans for the next day’s trek, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Altitude: 3,840 m – 4,630 m – 3,960 m
Hiking distance: 11 km
Hiking time: 7-8 hours
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp via Karanga Valley
After an early breakfast, your day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, a steep climb that will challenge you but reward you with incredible views. Once you reach the top, you’ll descend into the lush Karanga Valley where you’ll enjoy lunch at Karanga Camp.
After a short rest, you’ll continue your trek toward Barafu Camp. This section involves ascending through varied terrain and stunning landscapes, providing a memorable experience. Upon reaching Barafu Camp at 4,640 meters, the porters will set up your camp, and you’ll have time to relax and enjoy a hearty dinner prepared by our chef.
In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing for the upcoming summit attempt, ensuring you're prepared for the challenges ahead. Rest well, as the final ascent will begin later in the night.
Altitude: 3,960 m – 4,640 m
Hiking distance: 9 km
Hiking time: 8-9 hours
Day 5: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, Descend to Mweka Camp
You’ll rise around 11:30 PM and begin your final ascent after a light meal of tea and biscuits. Heading northwest, you’ll climb through scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section of the trek, the 6-hour journey to Stella Point at 5,685 meters, is often the most mentally and physically challenging part of the climb.
Upon reaching Stella Point, you’ll take a brief rest before being rewarded with a magnificent sunrise (weather permitting). From here, it’s a 2-hour ascent on snow-covered terrain to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Due to the cold and fatigue, you’ll need to limit your time at the summit, but take a moment to appreciate your incredible achievement.
The descent to Barafu Camp takes about 3 hours, where you’ll take a short rest before continuing your trek to Mweka Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Altitude: 4,640 m – 5,895 m – 3,090 m
Hiking distance: 17 km
Hiking time: 15+ hours
Day 6: Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Springlands Hotel
After breakfast at Mweka Camp, you’ll begin your descent toward Mweka Gate, enjoying the lush landscape on the way down. The trek covers 10 km and typically takes about 4 to 5 hours. Once you reach the gate, a transfer will be arranged to take you back to Springlands Hotel, where you can unwind with a hot lunch and enjoy a refreshing shower.
At the hotel, tipping the team is encouraged and appreciated for their hard work throughout the climb. Special envelopes for this purpose will be available. If you’re interested in extending your adventure, meet with our safari coordinator to explore safari options. After a rest, you’ll receive a briefing on the various safari packages we offer. We highly recommend booking a safari to experience Tanzania’s stunning wildlife and natural beauty, making your journey truly unforgettable.
Altitude: 3,090 m – 1,650 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. If you'd like to extend your adventure, you have the option to add a day trip to your itinerary, exploring nearby attractions or immersing yourself in the rich local culture of the area. For more information, feel free to visit our Day Trip page.
Alternatively, you can continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or wish to explore the island's rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Visit our Zanzibar page to find the perfect package for your next excursion.
If you’re also interested in a safari experience, check out our Safari page for exciting safari options to explore Tanzania’s unique wildlife. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again soon for another unforgettable adventure!