What is the Machame Route for hiking Kilimanjaro?

The Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes for hiking Kilimanjaro. It is a seven-day hike that offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, making it an exciting and challenging experience.

How difficult is the 7-day Machame Route?

The 7-day Machame Route is considered moderately difficult. It involves long daily hikes and steep ascents, requiring a good level of fitness and acclimatization to the altitude.

What is the best time of year to hike Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route?

The best time to hike Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route is during the dry seasons, which are generally from late June to October and from December to February. These months offer clearer skies and better hiking conditions

What kind of accommodation is provided during the 7-day Machame Route?

During the Machame Route hike, you will stay in tents at designated campsites along the trail. The camping experience adds to the sense of adventure and allows you to immerse yourself in nature.

Is it necessary to hire a guide and porters for the Machame Route?

Yes, hiring a guide is mandatory for all hikers on Kilimanjaro. They are experienced in leading hikers and ensuring safety. While hiring porters is not compulsory, it is recommended to make your hike more comfortable as they can carry the bulk of your gear.

What permits or documents are required for the Machame Route hike?

To hike Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, you need a hiking permit issued by the Tanzanian authorities. Your tour operator will usually take care of obtaining the necessary permits on your behalf.

How cold does it get during the 7-day Machame Route?

The temperatures on Kilimanjaro can vary significantly depending on the altitude and time of day. At higher elevations, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, so it's essential to have proper cold-weather gear

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Machame Route?

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on any route up Kilimanjaro, including the Machame Route. It's crucial to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your guide's advice to minimize the risk.

What should I pack for the 7-day Machame Route hike?

Your tour operator will provide you with a detailed packing list, but some essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a daypack, water bottles, snacks, and personal medications.

Are there any age restrictions for the Machame Route hike?

There is no strict upper age limit for the Machame Route hike, but participants should be in good physical health and reasonably fit. The hike can be demanding, and it's advisable to consult with a doctor before attempting the hike, especially for older hikers.

7 Days Hike Kilimanjaro Machame Route Experience

Price $1556 pp

Book this tour

7 Days Hike Kilimanjaro Machame Route Experience

Experience the awe-inspiring 7-Day Machame Route hike with Hike Kilimanjaro. Traverse diverse landscapes, led by seasoned guides. Embrace local culture, witness stunning vistas of Serengeti and Mount Meru. Camp under starry skies, forging bonds with fellow adventurers. Triumph over challenges, summit Mount Kilimanjaro, and leave with cherished memories and a profound connection to Africa.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Machame Gate to Machame Camp.
Day 2 : Machame Camp Hike to Shira Cave.
Day 3 : Shira Cave to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp.
Day 4 : Hiking Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp.
Day 5 : Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp.
Day 6 : Barafu Camp Hiking to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Day 7 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate.

Day 1 : Machame Gate to Machame Camp.

Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft Distance: 11 km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rain Forest The adventure begins with a scenic 50-minute drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate. Passing through the charming village of Machame, situated on the lower slopes of the mountain, you'll feel the excitement building up. Once you reach the gate, your hike kicks off through the lush rainforest. Following a winding trail up a ridge, you immerse yourself in the dense vegetation until you finally reach the Machame Camp at an altitude of 9,350 ft. The soothing sounds of the forest will be your lullaby as you rest for the night.

Accommodation for day 1

Machame Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 2 : Machame Camp Hike to Shira Cave.

Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Heath Leaving the rainforest behind, you'll continue your ascent on a path that leads you up a steep and rocky ridge. As you advance onto the Shira Plateau, the landscape changes to heather and open moorlands, offering you breathtaking vistas. Crossing a large river gorge, you'll arrive at Shira Cave, where you'll spend the night, surrounded by the highland wilderness.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira Cave to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp.

Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft Distance: 7 km (to Lava Tower), 3 km (to Barranco Camp) Hiking Time: 4-5 hours (to Lava Tower), 2-3 hours (to Barranco Camp) Habitat: Alpine Desert This day includes two segments: the first one takes you southeast towards the striking Lava Tower, a 300-ft tall volcanic rock formation, at an altitude of 15,190 ft. After a well-deserved break, you descend to Barranco Camp at 13,044 ft. The Barranco Camp is situated in a stunning alpine desert amidst the unique Senecio Forest. The variation in altitude throughout the day aids in acclimatization.

Accommodation for day 3

Barranco Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : Hiking Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp.

Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Your day begins with a descent into a ravine, leading you to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. This non-technical yet steep ascent of nearly 900 ft is a thrilling challenge. Once atop the Barranco Wall, you'll traverse hills and valleys until you sharply descend into the Karanga Valley. Hiking one more time, you'll reach Karanga Camp at 13,106 ft. This shorter day aids in further acclimatization, preparing you for the higher altitudes ahead.

Accommodation for day 4

Karanga Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp.

Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft Distance: 4 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Leaving Karanga Camp, your route connects with the Mweka Trail. You continue your ascent through rocky terrain, making your way to Barafu Hut at an elevation of 15,331 ft. From this vantage point, you'll witness awe-inspiring views of the twin peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo. Rest and nourish yourself with an early dinner in preparation for the summit day.

Accommodation for day 5

Barafu Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Barafu Camp Hiking to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Start on a challenging and rewarding hike, ascending from 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. The ascent begins at midnight, testing your determination with extreme winds and cold. After hours of hiking in darkness, a magnificent sunrise at Stella Point awaits at 18,900 ft. Pushing onward, you'll conquer Uhuru Peak, feeling triumphant and in awe. Descend to Mweka Hut campsite, passing Barafu for lunch, and enjoy stunning views on your way to the Rain Forest at 10,065 ft. The rocky trail may strain your knees, but the thought of a well-earned rest keeps you going. Finally, celebrate your achievement with a dinner and a much-needed rest at Mweka Camp

Accommodation for day 6

Mweka Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Lunch

Day 7 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate.

Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest On your final day, you descend further through the enchanting Rain Forest to the Mweka Gate. Reaching this point marks the completion of your epic Kilimanjaro hike. At the gate, you'll collect your summit certificates, commemorating your achievement. As you continue for another hour to Mweka Village, you'll have time to reflect on your extraordinary journey and bid farewell to the mountain that has captured your heart. From Mweka Village, a vehicle will take you back to Moshi, where you can relax and relish the memories of your incredible Kilimanjaro expedition.

Accommodation for day 7

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Costs for 7 Days Hike Kilimanjaro Machame Route Experience

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax	11 pax	12 pax
$ 1641	$ 1556	$ 1556	$ 1556	$ 1591	$ 1591	$ 1591	$ 1591	$ 1591	$ 1566	$ 1566	$ 1566

Tour activities

Game drive tours

Getting around/Walking

Hotel resting

Photographs

Tour features and style

Private tour
You can do safari privately for solo, couple, family, or in group.

Group tour
Join a group with your fellow tourists through this tour.

Budget tour
You can compute the price for budget for the whole tour

Customizable
You can customize the itinerary, price inclusions, accommodations, and also the price.

First aid/Rescue
First aid and rescue during the tour is assured.

Price inclusions

Sleeping bag or bed linen

Rescue fee

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)

Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Climbing gear

International flights to/from the start/end of the tour

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips: tipping guideline

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

ARROW MARKED ADVENTURE

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.arrowmarkedadventure.com

ARROW MARKED ADVENTURE Is one of the Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour Operators located in Tanzania, aiming on providing best quality services for Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour and for Africa wildlife safari (Tanzania Serengeti Safaris), Zanzibar beach holidays, cultural activities and trekking among other tour services.

Tour offered

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there age restrictions for participants?

Most Camping Group Join Safari s have no strict age limits, but check with the operator for any restrictions.

Can I bring my own camping gear?

Most tour operators provide camping e uipment, but you can in uire if bringing your gear is possible.

Can I see predators like cheetahs and leopards?

While sightings can't be guaranteed, Tarangire and Ngorongoro are known for such predators.

What's the average group age on these Camping Group Join Safari s?

Group ages can vary, but most participants are often between 25 to 55 years old.

How far in advance can I cancel or reschedule?

Check the tour operator's cancellation policy for specific details.

Can I participate if I have mobility limitations?

Some accommodations and vehicles are accessible, but discuss your needs with the operator beforehand.

Are night Camping Group Join Safari s included?

Night Camping Group Join Safari s might not be part of this itinerary due to park regulations.

What's the eti uette for wildlife viewing?

Follow your guide's instructions. Respect wildlife's space and avoid making sudden movements.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

Stick to bottled water to avoid any health issues. Tap water might not be safe.

How do I handle currency and tipping?

Carry small denominations for tips and currency exchange. Guides can advise on appropriate amounts.