Seven days Mount Kilimanjaro Climb Machame Route, Overview, Frequently asked questions and Day by Day itinerary with Safiri Seekers
Overview:
The Machame route is a popular and scenic trail that typically takes six or seven days to complete. It is known for its stunning views, varied landscapes, and high success rate.
Frequently asked questions about this route
The Machame route is approximately 62 km (39 miles) long and takes six or seven days to complete.
The success rate for the Machame route is around 85-90%, depending on the operator and weather conditions.
The terrain on the Machame route is varied and ranges from rainforest to moorland to alpine desert. There are some steep and rocky sections, particularly on the Barranco Wall, but the trail is generally well-maintained.
The Machame route requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You should be comfortable walking for several hours a day and be capable of hiking over rocky and uneven terrain. It’s recommended to engage in a fitness program before the trek.
The weather on the Machame route can vary, depending on the season. During the dry season (June to October), temperatures can range from -5°C to 20°C (23°F to 68°F) at higher elevations. During the wet season (November to May), temperatures can be slightly warmer, but there is a higher chance of rain and snow.
It is essential to bring warm and waterproof clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, and other key essentials like a camera, headlamp, and water bottle. A comprehensive list of gear will be provided by your operator.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Elevation: 900m/2,952ft
After your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, we will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. You will have some time to rest and prepare for the trek.
Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Elevation: 1,490m/4,890ft to 2,850m/9,350ft
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
We will depart from your hotel after breakfast and drive to the Machame Gate. Once we arrive, our team will register and start the hike through the rainforest, where you will see distinct flora and fauna at every turn. We will reach Machame Camp in the late afternoon, where you will be able to enjoy the magnificent view of the Shira Plateau.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Elevation: 2,850m/9,350ft to 3,810m/12,500ft
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Today’s trek starts with the steep ascent through the forest and into the moorland zone, where you will find fascinating views of the Mount Meru and Shira Plateau. We shall have a trek of about 5-7 hours before reaching our destination for the day, the Shira Camp.
Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,810m/12,500ft to 4,630m/15,190ft to 3,995m/13,110ft
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Today’s hike will take us through the stunning alpine desert to the Lava Tower, where we will stop for lunch (this is for acclimatization purposes). After lunch, we will descend to the Barranco Camp which features magnificent views of the Barranco Valley and Western Breach.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,995m/13,110ft to 4,200m/13,780ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
The day starts with a descent into the Barranco Valley, followed by a climb up the Barranco Wall. This is a challenging but exhilarating climb and will leave you with fond memories of the magnificent views before heading to Karanga Camp.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,200m/13,780ft to 4,680m/15,350ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Today’s hike will take us through the arctic desert, which features magnificent and breathtaking views of Uhuru Peak, Mawenzi, and the surrounding glaciers. We will spend the night at Barafu Camp, where we will have a few hours to rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and descent to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,680m/15,350ft to 5,895m/19,341ft to 3,100m/10,171ft
Hiking Time: 12-16 hours
We will start our ascent at midnight, in order for you to enjoy the sunrise from the peak. We will ascend a steep and challenging rocky trail to Stella Point, which is located at around 5,750m/18,865ft. From Stella Point, it’s an easy trek to Uhuru Peak. You will have time to absorb the view before we begin our descent through Mweka Camp for overnight stay.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m/10,171ft to 1,650/5,413ft
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Today, we will descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where we will say goodbye to your professional guide and support team. We will then drive you to your hotel for a well-deserved shower and rest.
