7 Days Machame Route

DAY 1: MACHAME GATE TO MACHAME CAMP

Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

You’ll be transported from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, passing through the village of Machame, situated on the lower slopes of the mountain. Leaving the park gate behind, our trek commences through the winding trail of the rainforest up the ridge. Some sections of the trail can be muddy and slippery, so it’s advisable to bring gaiters and trekking poles. Our day concludes at Machame Camp, where we’ll spend the night.

DAY 2: MACHAME CAMP TO SHIRA CAMP

Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

On the second day, we continue our journey through increasingly sparse trees and bushes, transitioning into the moorlands. The day concludes at Shira Camp, situated on a small plateau in the high moorlands. From here, you’ll enjoy views of Kibo to the northeast and Mount Meru towards the west. Throughout the day, white-necked ravens can be spotted. Additionally, a short walk from the campsite will take you to the Shira Caves, a set of small caves.

DAY 3: SHIRA CAMP TO LAVA TOWER TO BARRANCO CAMP

Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi Desert

Today’s route takes us to east, traversing a semi-desert and rocky landscape surrounding Lava Tower. Lunch will be served in a designated area before ascending the rocky path to Lava Tower. Afterward, we descend to the Barranco camping area. Reaching the high altitude of 4600m at Lava Tower allows for the beneficial effects of acclimatization. The descent to Barranco camp takes approximately 2 hours and provides excellent opportunities to capture beautiful photographs of the Western Breach and Breach Wall.

DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP

Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time:4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

We embark on a steep climb up the eastern wall, bringing us close to the Heim Glacier and providing breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro. Next, we conquer the Great Barranco Wall, ascending to its top and separating us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. The trail then descends into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley, followed by a steep climb up to Karanga Camp.

DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP

Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert After breakfast

We depart from Karanga and cross the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail, which will be used for the descent. Continuing upwards, we reach Barafu Camp, where we rest, have dinner, and prepare for the summit day. Barafu offers a splendid view of two volcanic cones: Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, which is a sight not to be missed.