7 Days Machame Route

Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

We leave the glades of the rainforest and continue on an ascending path up a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.

Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Lava Tower (15,190 ft) to Barranco Camp (13,044 ft)
Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

It will continue east up a ridge and then the team will head southeast toward Lava Tower — a 300-foot-tall volcanic rock formation. We descend to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.

Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

We continue on a steep ridge up the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction that connects to the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to witness the power, agility, and strength of your crew as they zip over the wall with what appears to be such ease. We continue upward toward Barafu Camp. Once reached, you will have completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking summit views from different angles. An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft) to Mweka Camp (10,065 ft)
Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours, taking frequent but short breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with one of the most magnificent sunrises you’re likely to ever see, rising over Mawenzi Peak.

Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak — the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent. From the summit, we begin our descent straight down to the Mweka Hut campsite, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is located in the upper forest, where mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned rest.

Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect our summit certificates. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle will meet us and drive us back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

Transfer back to Arusha for relaxation or head to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.