What is the Machame Route on Kilimanjaro?

The Machame Route is one of the popular hiking routes to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes, making it a favorite choice among hikers.

How long does it take to complete the Machame Route hike?

The Machame Route typically takes 7 days to complete. This duration allows for a gradual ascent, helping hikers acclimatize to the increasing altitude and improving the chances of reaching the summit successfully.

What is the level of difficulty for the Machame Route?

The Machame Route is considered to have a moderate to challenging level of difficulty. It involves steep ascents and descents, and the altitude can be demanding. Prior hiking experience is recommended, but it is not necessary to have technical hiking skills.

How is the accommodation during the 7-day hike?

The hike on the Machame Route involves camping in designated campsites along the trail. Tents are provided, and a team of experienced guides, porters, and cooks accompany the hikers to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

When is the best time to hike the Machame Route?

The best time to hike the Machame Route is during the dry seasons, which typically run from late June to October and from December to February. These months offer the most stable weather conditions and clear skies, increasing the chances of reaching the summit.

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

To hike the Machame Route, you need to obtain a permit from the Kilimanjaro National Park authority. The tour operator you choose will handle the permit application process on your behalf. Additionally, there are park entrance fees and conservation fees that are included in most tour packages.

Are there age restrictions for the Machame Route hike?

While there is no strict age limit for the Machame Route, it is recommended for hikers to be at least 18 years old due to the physical demands and altitude challenges. Older participants should have a thorough medical check-up and consult with their doctors before attempting the hike.

What is the success rate for reaching the summit on the Machame Route?

The success rate of reaching the summit on the Machame Route is relatively high compared to some other routes. However, success greatly depends on the hiker's physical fitness, acclimatization, and adherence to the guide's instructions during the hike.

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

Packing essentials include appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions (warm layers for higher altitudes), sturdy and comfortable hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a daypack, personal toiletries, a water bottle or hydration system, and any necessary medications.

How do I choose a reputable tour operator for the Machame Route hike?

When selecting a tour operator, consider their experience, track record, customer reviews, and safety standards. Look for operators who follow ethical and sustainable hiking practices, provide proper support for their crew, and prioritize the well-being of their clients. Always ask for recommendations and compare multiple options before making a decision.

7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Hiking

Price $1561 pp

Book this tour

7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Hiking

Start on a 7-day Kilimanjaro Hike through the awe-inspiring Machame Route, a trail that leads you from lush rainforests to ethereal moorlands. Traverse the thrilling Barranco Wall for panoramic glacier views and share campfire stories under the starlit African sky. Finally, stand on the Roof of Africa at Uhuru Peak, savoring the triumph and breathtaking sunrise. A life-changing adventure!

Tour highlights

Arrival Day : Arrival
Day 1 : Hiking From Machame Gate To Machame Camp
Day 2 : Machame Camp hike To Shira Cave
Day 3 : Shira Camp hike to Barranco Camp Via Lava Tower
Day 4 : From Barranco Camp hike to Karanga Camp
Day 5 : From Karanga Camp hike to Barafu Hut
Day 6 : Barafu Camp hike to Summit To Mweka Camp
Day 7 : Mweka Camp descend to Mweka Gate
Departure Day : Departure

Arrival Day : Arrival

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), all hikekers will need to organize their own flights. Once you arrive, our team will be waiting to greet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel. The transfer will take about 0.8 hours, covering a distance of approximately 40 km. After settling into your hotel, you will have the evening to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. Later that night or early the next morning, you will have a full pre-hike briefing with your local Kandoo representative, who will go over all the essential details of the hike. Transport: Private transfer (approximately 0.8 hours, 40 km) Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

> Drinking water

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

Day 1 : Hiking From Machame Gate To Machame Camp

After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive you from your accommodation to Machame Gate, where the hike officially begins. The drive will take around 0.8 hours, covering a distance of approximately 30 km. At the gate, we will handle the registration process while our dedicated porters pack and prepare all the necessary supplies and equipment for the hike. The hike will commence through the lush rainforest, offering a beautiful and serene environment. Our destination for the day is Machame Camp, located at an altitude of 3000 meters. We will spend the night here, surrounded by nature. Transport: Private transfer (approximately 0.8 hours, 30 km) Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours Ascent: 1200 meters Max. altitude: 3000 meters Accommodation: Camping Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation for day 1

Machame Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 2 : Machame Camp hike To Shira Cave

Following a hearty breakfast at Machame Camp, we will continue our ascent, leaving the rainforest behind us. The trail will lead us through a small valley, and as we hike higher, we'll encounter a steep rocky ridge covered with heather. The day's hike will take us to Shira Camp, situated at an altitude of 3850 meters. As we gain altitude, the temperature may drop, and it's essential to be prepared for potentially freezing conditions during the night. Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours Ascent: 850 meters Max. altitude: 3850 meters Accommodation: Camping Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation for day 2

Shira Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira Camp hike to Barranco Camp Via Lava Tower

Today is a challenging day as we ascend to 4600 meters, the base of the Lava Tower, where we will stop for lunch and acclimatization. The altitude may start to affect some hikekers for the first time, so it's crucial to pay attention to your body's signals. After lunch, we will descend to Barranco Camp (3950 meters) following the "walk high, sleep low" principle, which helps with acclimatization. The descent offers breathtaking views of the Western Breach and Breach Wall, providing excellent photo opportunities. The camp is located in a valley below the imposing Barranco Wall. Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours Ascent: 750 meters Descent: 650 meters Max. altitude: 4600 meters Accommodation: Camping Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation for day 3

Barranco Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : From Barranco Camp hike to Karanga Camp

This is a relatively short and enjoyable day, starting with a scramble to the top of the Great Barranco Wall, offering an exciting challenge. We will then traverse over scree to the Karanga Valley, situated at an altitude of 3930 meters. The valley lies beneath the impressive icefalls of the Heim, Kersten, and Dicken Glaciers. We will spend the night at the Karanga campsite. Hiking time: 4 hours Ascent: 260 meters Descent: 280 meters Max. altitude: 4210 meters Accommodation: Camping Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation for day 4

Karanga Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : From Karanga Camp hike to Barafu Hut

Leaving Karanga Camp behind, we will reach the junction that connects with the Mweka descent trail. From here, our journey continues to Barafu Camp. This marks the completion of the Southern Circuit, offering stunning views of the summit from different angles. At camp, we will rest, have dinner, and prepare ourselves for the summit day. The peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo will be clearly visible from this vantage point. Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours Ascent: 670 meters Max. altitude: 4600 meters Accommodation: Camping Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation for day 5

Barafu Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Barafu Camp hike to Summit To Mweka Camp

The most challenging and rewarding day of the hike begins around 23:30 with a wake-up call. We will start our hike to the summit, navigating between the Rebman and Ratzel glaciers, and ascending through heavy scree until we reach Stella Point (5732 meters) on the crater rim. This part of the hike is mentally and physically demanding, but the incredible views and the chance to witness the sunrise (weather permitting) make it all worthwhile. From Stella Point, it's just an hour to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895 meters), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating our achievement, we will descend to Mweka Camp (3100 meters) via Barafu for lunch. Hiking poles will be necessary for the loose scree on the way down. In the evening, we will enjoy our final dinner on the mountain and rest. Hiking time: 14 - 16 hours Ascent: 1295 meters Descent: 2795 meters Max. altitude: 5895 meters Accommodation: Camping Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation for day 6

Mweka Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Mweka Camp descend to Mweka Gate

On the last day of the hike, we will have breakfast before descending a further 1300 meters to Mweka Park Gate. This is the final stretch of the journey, and upon reaching the gate, you will receive your well-deserved summit certificates from the Park Headquarters. From there, a private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you can rest and reflect on the incredible achievement. Transport: Private transfer (approximately 0.5 hours, 17 km) Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours Descent: 1300 meters Max. altitude: 3100 meters Accommodation: Hotel Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch

Accommodation for day 7

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Dinner

Drinking water

Departure Day : Departure

After a restful night's sleep, it's time to bid farewell. If you have arranged airport transfers or a safari/Zanzibar trip with us, our team will collect you in the morning for your onward journey. Transport: Private transfer (approximately 0.8 hours, 40 km) Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation

Included meals and drinks

> Breakfast

Costs for 7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Hiking

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax	11 pax	12 pax	13 pax	14 pax	15 pax
$ 1646	$ 1561	$ 1561	$ 1561	$ 1596	$ 1596	$ 1596	$ 1596	$ 1596	$ 1571	$ 1571	$ 1571	$ 1571	$ 1571	$ 1571

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

Rental vehicle

Rescue fee

All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

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

Tips: tipping guideline

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Climbing gear

Roundtrip airport transfer

All flights during the tour

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

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

African Broad Tour And Safaris

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website www.africanbroadtourandsafaris.com

We’re Tourism experts across African destinations. We offer any type of holiday you can imagine including adventurous safaris, Family vocation, camping safaris, and beach holiday, Kilimanjaro hiking. Our small team of destination experts regularly visits all the lodges and hotels featured on our website therefore, when you travel with us, you can expect beautiful accommodations, delicious food, and of course spectacular wildlife.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book this Lodging mid-range Private safari?

Contact our team through the provided email or phone number to book your adventure.

Is there internet access during the safari?

Some lodges may have limited internet access, but it's best to disconnect and immerse in the wilderness.

What should I pack for the safari?

Light clothing, binoculars, a hat, sunscreen, and a good camera are recommended.

What type of lodging can I expect on this mid-range safari?

You will stay in comfortable lodges that offer essential amenities.

Can I customize this safari to fit my preferences?

Absolutely, our Lodging mid-range Private safaris can be tailored to your interests.

Is it safe to go on a safari in terms of wildlife encounters?

Yes, experienced guides prioritize safety during all encounters.

Are meals included in the tour package?

Yes, all meals during the safari are included.

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Yes, most visitors require a visa for entry. Ensure you have the necessary travel documentation.

Is a Lodging mid-range Private safari better than a group tour?

Lodging mid-range Private safaris offer more flexibility and personalized experiences.

What is the best time for this safari?

The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing.