7 Days Machame Climbing

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Trekking Details.

MACHAME ROUTE.

The Machame Route Experience

Scenic Diversity:
– Traverse through five distinct climate zones, from lush rainforest to alpine desert.
– Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

Challenging and Rewarding Trek:

– Conquer the challenging Barranco Wall and navigate steep ascents and descents.
– Experience a sense of accomplishment with each day’s progress, culminating in the ultimate achievement of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Stunning Vistas:
– Witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets from various campsites along the route.
– Marvel at panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Meru and the southern ice fields.

Acclimatization Benefits:
– Benefit from the route’s natural acclimatization profile, increasing your chances of a successful summit.
– Enjoy a gradual ascent that allows your body to adjust to the altitude.

Unique Campsites:
– Camp in picturesque locations like the Shira Plateau and the Barranco Valley.
– Experience the camaraderie of fellow climbers in vibrant and lively campsites.

Expert Guidance:
– Be supported by experienced and knowledgeable guides who ensure your safety and enjoyment.
– Learn about the mountain’s history, geology, and ecology from your guides.

Summit Night Adventure:
– Embark on a thrilling midnight ascent to the summit under a starlit sky.
– Experience the magic of reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise, standing on the “Roof of Africa.”

Cultural Connection:
– Interact with the local Chagga people and learn about their culture and traditions.
– Contribute to the local economy by supporting the dedicated team of porters and guides.

The Machame Route offers an unforgettable adventure, combining physical challenge with the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. With expert support and a well-designed itinerary, climbers can fully immerse themselves in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Machame Route 7 Days popularly known as the “Whiskey” route, begins at Machame Gate and takes 7 days, located at the southern base of the mountain, within its green, abundant rain forest.

We climb to the Shira Plateau, then traverse the mountain beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice field, before summiting from Barafu Hut. Machame is a good choice for people who want to enjoy a scenic hike on a challenging route in the shortest amount of time.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Arusha
Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

We will arrange a private transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). To Arusha at a Lodge, where the rest of the day is at leisure. We will gather in the hotel for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.

Day 2: Machame Hut (3,000 m); 6-8 hours walking

The climb starts from Machame Gate (1,800 m.) after a short walk through the attractive banana and coffee farms of Machame village. The path follows a ridge through dense montane forest. This is the richest forested area on the mountain, and also the zone from where 96 % of the water on Kilimanjaro originates. On sunny days, and especially in the dry season, this section is very lush and beautiful; it can also be a very muddy experience, particularly if it has rained recently! We have lunch at ‘Halfway Clearing’, a small opening in the trees, and continue climbing steadily. The gradient becomes gentler as the forest slowly merges into giant heather close to the next camp near the ruins of Machame Hut. We may get our first closer look at the glaciated dome of Kibo if the evening clouds permit.

Day 3: Shira Hut (3,840m); 4-6 hours walking

A shorter day that begins by climbing up a steep ridge to reach a small semicircular cliff known as Picnic Rock. There are excellent views of Kibo and the jagged rim of Shira Plateau from here,and it is a good rest point too! The trail continues less steeply to reach the Shira Plateau. We camp near Shira Hut (3,840m.) which has some of the most stunning views on Kilimanjaro; close to the huge volcanic cone of Kibo, the spectacular rock formations of Shira Plateau, and looking across to Mt. Meru floating on the clouds.

Day 4: Great Barranco valley (3,900 m.); 5-7 hours walking

A morning of gentle ascent and panoramic views, leaving the moorland plateau behind to walk on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch near the Lava Tower junction (4,550 m.) we descend to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3,900 m.), sheltered by towering cliffs and with extensive views of the plains far below.

Day 5: Karanga camp (4,000 m); 4-5 hours walking

A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us to an undulating trail on the south-eastern flank of Kibo, with superb vistas of the Southern Ice fields. The terrain changes to scree, with pockets of lush vegetation in sheltered hollows, and there is only a short distance to our camp at Karanga (4,000 m.), the last water point on the approach to Barafu, in a narrow valley. There is plenty of time to rest, or for a short optional acclimatization walk in the afternoon up the valley above the camp.

Day 6: Barafu campsite (4,600 m.); 3-4 hours walking

A short but steep climb out of Karanga, and an easy path on compacted scree with wide views to reach Mweka Junction (4,150 m.). We then climb steadily to reach the Barafu campsite (4,600 m.) and continue to the plateau at the bottom of the South-East valley (4,800 m.). The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before an early night.

Day 7: Mweka forest camp (3100 m); 13-15 hours walking

We will start our ascent by torchlight at about 1 a.m. so that we can be up on the Crater rim by sunrise. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to Stella Point (5,735 m), in about five or six hours. We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the two hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Barafu is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach our final Mweka forest camp.

Day 8: Mweka forest camp to Mweka Gate (1,650 m); 3-4 hours walking

A sustained descent through lovely forest with lush undergrowth takes us to Mweka National Park gate.

Day 9: Departure Day

Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) Private departure transfer is included

Included

Park fees(For non-residents)
All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals

Excluded

International flights(From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Drinks

What Others Says About Climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain.

With over five years of experience in guiding expeditions, we offer unparalleled expertise and unforgettable adventures. Trust us to create the climbing experience of your dreams, showcasing the best of Mount Kilimanjaro's breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife."

Sarah W. from Melbourne, Australia:

"Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame route was the adventure of a lifetime! The changing landscapes were stunning, and each day brought new challenges and breathtaking views. The guides were exceptional, providing support and encouragement throughout the journey. Reaching the summit at sunrise was an indescribable moment that I'll cherish forever."

David R. from Toronto, Canada:

"The Machame route offered a perfect blend of challenge and beauty. From the lush rainforest to the rocky peaks, every step was a new experience. Our guides were incredibly knowledgeable and made sure we were well-prepared for each stage of the climb. The sense of accomplishment I felt standing at Uhuru Peak is unmatched."

Carlos M. from Madrid, Spain:

"The Machame Route offered the perfect balance of adventure and beauty. Each day brought new surprises, from encountering wildlife in the rainforest to navigating the Barranco Wall. Our guides were knowledgeable and supportive, ensuring we acclimatized well and stayed motivated. Summit night was tough but unforgettable, and reaching Uhuru Peak was a moment of immense pride and joy."

Sophie M. from London, UK:

"I chose the Machame Route for its reputation and was not disappointed. The trek was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The scenery was breathtaking, especially as we climbed higher and saw the sunrise from different campsites. The camaraderie among fellow climbers and the dedication of our guides made the journey even more special. Kilimanjaro exceeded all expectations!"