7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing -machame route
About Cruise Trips to Antarctica
On the day of your journey, you'll be greeted by either our driver or guide, who will take you to Machame Gate to kick off your trekking experience. At the gate of the Machame route, we handle all park procedures, meet our team of porters and begin our ascent! The initial part of the trail gradually ascends through rainforest. This particular path is less frequented so expect some areas to be a bit overgrown and occasionally damp and muddy.
Time taken: -5-6 hours
Distance: -10 km
We keep going through the forest until we reach the climb, to the Shira Plateau, offering views of the mountain. When you look back, you'll spot Mt Meru towering over Arusha town, in the distance.
Time taken: -4-5hrs
Distance: -5.4 km
Hiking through the moorland, the scenery transforms the experience of the journey. We move along the flank of Kilimanjaro, going beneath the Lava Tower and the last stretch of the Breach, before arriving at camp. Throughout the day we've been, at altitudes (reaching up to 4600 m) adhering to the mountaineering principle of "climb sleep low" to help our bodies adjust to the altitude.
Time taken: 8–10 hrs
Distance: 10.8 km
Starting our day, we begin our journey, from Barranco Camp at 3960 meters to Karanga Camp at 3963 meters. We descend into the Great Barranco, a ravine, before making a steep ascent up the Great Barranco Wall. This section, separating us from the Kibos slopes, involves a technical yet strenuous rocky climb. Passing beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we proceed towards the Karanga valley. The route includes a trek from the valley to reach our evening campsite at Karanga Camp located at 3963 meters. For those seeking a challenge, optional midafternoon acclimatization hikes up to 4200 meters are available, before returning to camp for the night.
Time taken: 5 hours.
Distance: 5.5 km
After a night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we began our journey, towards Barafu camp, situated at an altitude of 4640 meters. The trek led us through barren slopes without vegetation, presenting a challenging and steep ascent heightened by the effects of high altitude. Upon reaching the camp, we indulged in a meal. I spent the afternoon recuperating in anticipation of the demanding night and day ahead. Staying hydrated and keeping warm were priorities. We enjoyed a dinner before gearing up for the summit day.
Time taken - 3 hours
Distance - 3km
We start off at around midnight, and walk steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. We will be climbing scree for 4 to 5 hours, but we will gain incredible height over a short distance. The views are spectacular. We should be on the crater rim at Stella Point (5739 m) as the first rays of the sun hit us. Spectacular ice cliffs within the crater surround us and the views to jagged Mawenzi peak and beyond are breathtaking. Another hour of walking takes us to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895 m). We begin our descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on a scree slope and track back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, before finally heading down to Millennium Camp for a long, well-earned rest.
Time taken: 8–12 hours
Distance: 15 km
Millennium Camp is located in a rainforest. When you wake up, you'll feel relieved by the decrease in altitude and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the peak. Following breakfast, you'll make your way to the park exit at Mweka Gate. Once you descend, the entire group will gather to celebrate your achievement and give you an opportunity to share your thoughts on the climb in the guestbook. Finally, we will present you with certificates at our office. Arrange for your return transfer, to Arusha.
What To expect on Your safari Package
included
- Pickup and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Transport to the starting point and pick up from exit from Kilimanjaro
- All park fees
- Oxygen cylinder and ox meters
- Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro
- Comfortable sleeping mats
- Equipment
- All meals on the hike
- Fresh fruits during the hike
- All drinks on the hike (tea, coffee and water)
- Professional guides,
- Support crew
Excluded
- International airfare and visas
- Travel insurance