Machame Route

Begin your Kilimanjaro adventure at Machame Gate (1,800m) with a warm welcome from your guides. Trek through lush montane rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and exotic birdlife. The trail gradually ascends through dense vegetation, with occasional glimpses of the mountain ahead. After 5-7 hours of steady climbing, reach Machame Camp (3,000m) where your crew sets up camp. Enjoy your first mountain dinner and rest well for the days ahead.

Leave the rainforest behind as you ascend through the heather and moorland zone. The trail becomes steeper, offering spectacular views of Mount Meru and the surrounding plains. Cross the Shira Plateau, a vast high-altitude desert with unique vegetation. The air thins noticeably as you approach Shira Camp (3,840m). This longer day (6-8 hours) helps with acclimatization. Watch the sunset paint the landscape in golden hues before settling in for the night.

Today follows the "climb high, sleep low" principle essential for acclimatization. Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), a dramatic volcanic formation where you'll have lunch. The altitude here helps your body adapt before descending to Barranco Camp (3,950m). This strategic route significantly improves your summit success chances. The descent through the Barranco Valley offers stunning views of the Western Breach and the route ahead.

Start with the famous Barranco Wall scramble - it looks intimidating but is actually a fun, hands-on section that most climbers enjoy. After conquering the wall, traverse through the Karanga Valley with its unique high-altitude vegetation. The shorter day (3-4 hours) allows for additional rest and acclimatization. Karanga Camp (3,995m) sits in a beautiful location with views of the southern glaciers. Use this afternoon to hydrate, rest, and prepare mentally for summit night.

A steady climb brings you to Barafu Camp (4,673m), your base for the summit attempt. The landscape becomes increasingly lunar-like, with minimal vegetation. Arrive early afternoon to allow maximum rest before the midnight start. Your guides will brief you on summit night procedures, what to wear, and pacing strategies. Early dinner and rest are crucial - you'll wake around 11 PM to begin the final push to Uhuru Peak.

Summit night begins around midnight with a slow, steady ascent. Headlamps illuminate the path as you zigzag up the steep scree slopes. Reach Stella Point (5,739m) at sunrise for breathtaking views across Africa. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - you've made it! Celebrate briefly before descending to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for a well-deserved sleep at lower altitude.

Your final descent through the rainforest feels like a victory march. The air is thick and oxygen-rich after days at altitude. Enjoy the lush surroundings and reflect on your incredible achievement. Reach Mweka Gate (1,640m) where you'll receive your summit certificate and celebrate with your team. Transfer back to your hotel for hot showers, celebration dinner, and sharing stories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.