9 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE
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Overview
The 9-day Machame Route is the perfect itinerary for trekkers seeking a more gradual ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro with better acclimatisation and a higher summit success rate. This extended version of the classic “Whiskey Route” begins in the lush rainforest and progresses through diverse landscapes, including moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers. Key highlights include Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and the final push to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres. The extra days allow for rest and acclimatisation, reducing altitude sickness risk. The descent via the Mweka Route offers a scenic exit through dense forest, completing an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Airport Pick-Up – Drop Off At Hotel
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a member of Engida Tanzania Tours’ hospitality team will welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Moshi. The drive takes approximately one hour and covers a distance of 40 km. Once at the Panama Garden Resort, you’ll settle into comfortable accommodations featuring hot showers, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and internet access. In the evening, your guide will conduct a detailed trek briefing, covering the route, expectations, and gear check. This preparation is vital to ensure your readiness for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route.
Day 2: Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp
After an early breakfast at 7:00 AM, depart at 8:00 AM to arrive at Machame Gate by 9:00 AM. Here, registration formalities are completed, and porters prepare the gear. Begin your trek through the lush rainforest at 1,800 meters, hiking 11 km over 4.5 to 5 hours. The trail gradually ascends through mossy forests and vibrant flora, such as impatiens kilimanjari. As you climb higher, the vegetation thins and giant heathers appear. By late afternoon, reach Machame Camp (2,835 meters), where you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and settle in amid rich birdlife and your first views of Kibo Peak.
Day 3: From Machame Camp To Shira Cave Camp
Breakfast is served at 7:00 AM, with an 8:30 AM departure toward Shira Cave Camp. You’ll gain 915 meters in elevation, ending at 3,750 meters. Although the distance is only 5 km, the steep and dusty path requires 5.5 to 6 hours of trekking. The landscape transitions from heather forests to the more open moorland, featuring striking flora like giant groundsels. A picnic lunch is enjoyed with views of Kibo to the north and Mount Meru to the west. Arriving at Shira Plateau around 2:00 PM, you’ll admire Shira Cathedral and obsidian rock formations before settling in for dinner at 6:00 PM.
Day 4: From Shira Cave Camp To Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
Today’s trek involves significant acclimatisation as you ascend from 3,750 to 4,600 meters at Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp at 3,900 meters. This “climb high, sleep low” method improves your adjustment to altitude. You’ll depart at 8:30 AM across the Shira Plateau, where only hardy lichens survive. After a steep climb, enjoy a picnic lunch near Lava Tower around 1:00 PM. From there, descend through dramatic alpine scenery to Barranco Camp, arriving around 4:00 PM. Look out for the Heim Glacier and the southern face of Kibo. Dinner is served at 7:00 PM. Expect about 7 hours of trekking today.
Day 5: From Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp
Breakfast starts slightly later today at 7:30 AM, with departure at 8:30 AM. Though only 5 km long, today’s hike takes 3.5 to 4 hours and offers one of the most exhilarating segments—the scramble up the Barranco Wall, often called the “Breakfast Wall.” After this challenge, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the Heim Glacier. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley, a cold but captivating stretch, followed by a series of steep zig-zags leading to Karanga Camp at 3,995 meters. You’ll arrive around 1:00 PM for a hot lunch and have a relaxed afternoon before dinner at 6:00 PM.
Day 6: From Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp
The journey from Karanga to Barafu Camp begins with breakfast at 7:30 AM and a prompt 8:30 AM departure. Today’s trail covers 4 km with a 670-meter elevation gain, requiring 3.5 to 4 hours of trekking. You’ll pass through bleak, rocky terrain, with views of the Decken, Kersten, and Rebmann Glaciers. After a brief scramble, arrive at Barafu Camp (4,673 meters) by 1:00 PM for a hot lunch. The afternoon is reserved for rest and preparation for your midnight summit attempt. Dinner is served early at 5:30 PM so you can sleep early and conserve energy for summit day.
Day 7: Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Mweka Camp
Summit day begins at 11:00 PM with tea and biscuits, followed by a midnight departure. Ascend through scree to Stella Point (5,756 meters), then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa, reaching the summit around 7:00 AM. After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Barafu Camp for a hot lunch and short rest. At 1:30 PM, continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100 meters), arriving by 5:00 PM. Dinner is served at 7:00 PM. This challenging day involves 13 hours of trekking and covers approximately 17 km, testing both your physical and mental endurance.
Day 8: Descent From Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate – Moshi
Enjoy your final trek day with breakfast at 7:00 AM, followed by a tipping ceremony to thank your trekking team. Begin your 3-hour descent at 9:00 AM through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters), where you’ll receive your summit certificate and enjoy a hot lunch. Your driver will then return you to your hotel in Moshi, where you can rest or celebrate your achievement. This marks the completion of your Kilimanjaro adventure via the Machame Route. A relaxing evening awaits before departure or your next adventure.
Day 9: Departure – Kilimanjaro International Airport
After a restful night at Panama Garden Resort, enjoy breakfast and check out by 11:00 AM. If your flight departs later in the evening, you may request a day room until 6:00 PM for an additional fee—please notify us during booking for arrangements. A transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport is included in your package, ensuring a smooth departure. If you’ve booked a post-trek safari, a guide from Jerry Tanzania Tours will meet you in the evening to brief you on the next leg of your journey. This concludes your unforgettable Kilimanjaro trekking experience.
Our Package Includes
- Transport from/to park gate & airport transfer
- Pre and post climb accommodation (B&B) in Moshi
- Park, camping & rescue fees
- Mountain tent & mattress
- Professional English speaking guide(s), porters & chef
- 10 breakfasts; 9 lunches; 8 dinners
- Water; tea and coffee with meals
Not Included
- Flights
- Lunch & dinner in Moshi
- Travel insurance
- Visa and passport fees
- Increases in park fees where applicable
- Personal equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Tips for guide(s), porters & cook
- Soda and Alcoholic beverages