The Machame route, known for its stunning scenery and relatively high success rate, is a popular choice for those aiming to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Over 6 days, this journey takes you through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and rocky ridges, culminating in a rewarding summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa.
When you arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) you will see our driver waiting for you just outside the secured customs area - with a Lake Zone Climbers & Safaris sign with your name on it. From there you will be drive to your hotel in Moshi. After allowing some time to settle in, there will be a climb briefing with your guide. Here all questions will be answered. There will also be an equipment check. If you are lacking any items, they can be rented locally of good quality at a reasonable price. If you have a nightime arrival, these things can be done early the next morning.
Departing from Moshi a 45-minute drive will take you through the Village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here.
After a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the valley along a steep rocky ridge. The route now turns west onto a river gorge until we arrive at the Shira campsite. Temperatures begin to drop.
You can spend a full day and a second night at Horombo. On this day, you can either rest at the huts or take a stroll up to the Mawenzi base camp then return to the Horombo Huts. This extra day will help your acclimatization, and further your understanding of the mountains weather and altitude. After your pause, you will continue up to the Kibo Huts on your fourth day for your midnight start to the summit.
After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days, showcasing the power, agility, and strength of your crew as they navigate this wall with ease. We continue up towards Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from different angles. An early dinner and rest are essential as we prepare for summit.
Excitement builds with a midnight start. This is the most challenging portion of the trek. We press toward the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, staying focused on the accomplishment ahead. Moving in switchbacks, we ascend through heavy scree toward Stella Point. You will be rewarded with a magnificent sunrise during a short rest here. Faster hikers may view it from the summit. On the remaining 1-hour climb to Uhuru Peak, expect snow all the way. Congratulations! One step at a time, you have reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa! After photos and celebrations, we enjoy this incredible achievement. We then begin a steep descent to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel and ash terrain. A well-deserved rest awaits for your last evening on the mountain.
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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