6 Days Trek the Peak of Mt Kilimanjaro by Machame Route

Start your journey from Machame Gate, located near the village of Machame. Trek through the rainforest, following a winding trail that can be muddy and slippery. It takes about 5-7 hours to reach Machame Camp at an elevation of 9,400ft. Consider using gaiters and trekking poles for this leg of the trek.

Leave the rainforest behind and ascend through the heather-covered ridge. The path continues upwards, crossing a valley and finally leading to Shira Cave Camp at 12,500ft. This 5km trek takes approximately 4-6 hours and offers a transition to the moorland habitat.

Continue eastward from the Shira Plateau, passing the junction to Kibo Peak. Head southeast towards the Lava Tower, also known as the "Shark's Tooth," before descending to the Barranco Hut at 13,000ft. This 10km stretch takes 6-8 hours and provides important acclimatization.

After breakfast, navigate the steep ridge of the Barranco Wall and reach the Karanga Valley campsite. From there, follow the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail, eventually arriving at Barafu Hut. This marks the completion of the South Circuit and offers stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

Begin the summit push in the early morning, ascending between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Proceed northwest towards Stella Point on the crater rim, where you can rest and witness a breathtaking sunrise (weather permitting). Continue for about an hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to the Mweka Hut campsite through loose gravel, stopping for lunch at Barafu. Expect mist or rain as you reach the upper forest at Mweka Camp.

Descend to Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. The trail can be wet and muddy at lower elevations. From the gate, continue for an hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in Moshi.