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8 Days

Machame Route

Overview
Summary
Itinerary
Includes & Excludes
Plan Your Safari

8 Days Machame Route

The 8-day Machame Route luxury trek offers a private, all-inclusive Kilimanjaro experience. Staying at Kosovo Camp (4,870m), trekkers enjoy panoramic views, enhanced acclimatization, and an early summit start. This route combines adventure, comfort, and safety, allowing climbers to fully embrace the challenge while immersing themselves in the mountain’s breathtaking landscapes.

Tour Summary & Map

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp | 11 km / 7 mi

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp 2 | 5 km / 3 mi

Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Camp | 7 km / 5 mi

Day 4: Moir Hut Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp | 10 km / 6 mi

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp: 5.2km/3mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Kosovo Camp | 5 km / 3 mi

Day 7: Kosovo Camp to Summit to Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp | 17 km / 10.5 mi

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate | 10 km / 6 mi

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp | 11 km / 7 mi

Machame Gate to Machame Camp | 11 km / 7 mi

Depart Moshi at 8:30 AM for Machame Gate, passing coffee farms and local villages. Meet your guides, porters, and cooks for the week-long trek. Start hiking through Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest with moss-draped trees and vibrant vegetation. The forest gradually gives way to heathers, tall grasses, and wildflowers. Porters set up Machame Camp in advance. Arrive, settle in, and enjoy your first night immersed in Africa’s wilderness, preparing for the journey ahead.

Overnight: Machame Camp

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp 2 | 5 km / 3 mi

Machame Camp to Shira Camp 2 | 5 km / 3 mi

Although short, today’s trek includes uphill sections with scenic viewpoints of Kilimanjaro’s peaks and surrounding plains. Drink plenty of water as the trail is exposed in sunny weather. Observe high-altitude plants like Lobelia deckenii and Senecio kilimanjari. Cross the Shira Plateau, formed by ancient lava flows, offering expansive views. Arrive at Shira Camp 2, relax, and acclimatize. Enjoy the quiet environment, prepare for higher elevations, and marvel at Kilimanjaro’s beauty.

Overnight: Shira Camp 2

Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Camp | 7 km / 5 mi

Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Camp | 7 km / 5 mi

Leave Shira 2 Camp and enter high-altitude moorlands. The trail has undulating paths and rocky sections, with spectacular views of the rugged terrain. Unique flora distinguishes this area from the rainforest below. Moir Hut Camp provides a peaceful, remote setting for acclimatization. Relax, connect with fellow trekkers, and reflect on your progress. This campsite allows for rest and preparation for more challenging trekking days ahead, ensuring energy reserves and a strong foundation for summit day.

Overnight: Moir Hut Camp

Day 4: Moir Hut Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp | 10 km / 6 mi

Moir Hut Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp | 10 km / 6 mi

Trek from Moir Hut Camp to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation with panoramic views. The ascent helps with acclimatization. Descend through Barranco Valley, a lush area with unique vegetation and wildlife. Arrive at Barranco Camp, widely considered the most scenic campsite on the Machame Route. Spend the evening resting and enjoying the landscape. This day combines physical challenge with stunning scenery, preparing climbers for the Barranco Wall, an iconic ascent that follows the next day.

Overnight: Barranco Camp

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp | 5 km / 3 mi

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp | 5 km / 3 mi

Begin by ascending the Great Barranco Wall, offering incredible views of Heim Glacier and clouds below. Though intimidating in appearance, the climb is easier than expected. Descend into Karanga Valley, a picturesque area ideal for acclimatization. The short distance allows time for rest and observation of the surrounding flora and fauna. Karanga Camp offers a peaceful environment for reflection and preparation. Today balances challenge and acclimatization, helping climbers build strength and stamina for higher altitudes.

Overnight: Karanga Camp

Day 6 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Kosovo Camp | 5 km / 3 mi

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Kosovo Camp | 5 km / 3 mi

Wake early to enjoy views of Kibo Peak and a hearty breakfast. Trek across arid landscapes to Barafu Camp, observing Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Continue to Kosovo Camp at 4,870 meters, less frequented and strategically positioned for summit day. Rest, have an early dinner, and acclimatize. Kosovo Camp offers a quiet night with quality sleep, preserving energy for the midnight ascent. Prepare mentally and physically for the most challenging day of your Kilimanjaro trek.

Overnight: Kosovo Camp

Day 7 - Kosovo Camp to Summit to Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp | 17 km / 10.5 mi

Kosovo Camp to Summit to Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp | 17 km / 10.5 mi

Start the midnight summit climb from Kosovo Camp with tea and snacks. Ascend challenging terrain past Lebmann and Ratzel Glaciers to Stella Point on the crater rim. Pause briefly for sunrise views if weather permits, then continue to Uhuru Peak. After summiting, descend to Barafu for lunch and continue to Mweka Camp. Use gaiters and trekking poles for loose gravel. Enjoy dinner and reflect on the remarkable achievement of reaching Africa’s highest peak.

Overnight: Mweka Camp

Day 8 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate | 10 km / 6 mi

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate | 10 km / 6 mi

Descend through Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest to Mweka Gate, taking care on slippery sections. Upon arrival, vehicles transport you back to Moshi. Purchase souvenirs or refreshments, commemorating your trek. Reflect on the incredible journey, personal achievement, and breathtaking scenery. The descent offers final glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s forests, flora, and wildlife. Celebrate completing the Machame Route while enjoying a sense of accomplishment and memories of Africa’s highest peak, its diverse landscapes, and the unforgettable experiences along the way.

Includes & Excludes

Include & Exclude

Park fees
All activities
All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
A professional driver/guide
All transportation
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Camping Equipment
Porterage

International flights (from/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Rescue Fee
Climbing Gear
Sleeping Bag

8 Days Machame Route

Mid Range

Luxury

Top Luxury

Plan Your Safari

Discover Africa's Best Mountain Packages

Mount Kilimanjaro offers several scenic routes to its summit, each varying in difficulty and duration. Popular paths include Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit. These routes showcase diverse landscapes—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

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8 Days Machame Route FAQs

How do I choose a Kilimanjaro tour operator?

Choosing the right Kilimanjaro Tour Operator is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when hiking Africa’s highest peak.

It is often advised to look for a registered and experienced operator that has good reviews, professional mountain guides, and follows proper safety practices.

A good company should also take care of its crew, provide fair wages, reasonable porter loads, and appropriate meals. Don’t just go with the cheapest option.

A reliable operator provides superior support, high-quality equipment, and a safer experience on the mountain.

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?

The cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro usually ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. This depends on the route, the number of days, whether the climb is group or private, and the services included.

Remember, cheaper companies may cut corners on staff welfare or safety equipment.

A reasonable price usually includes park fees, experienced guides, meals, tents, porters, and airport transfers.

Therefore, always ask for a detailed cost breakdown before booking.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons. January to mid-March and June to October offer the most stable weather and clearer views.

These months are ideal for achieving summit success and enjoying comfort. The long rains (late March to May) and short rains (November) make the trails slippery and reduce visibility.

While climbing during the rainy seasons is possible, it’s not ideal unless you’re prepared for wet, muddy, and more difficult conditions.

Which is the best route for climbing Kilimanjaro?

The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are known for beautiful scenery and good acclimatization.

Machame is the most popular, offering a dramatic and varied landscape.

Rongai is less crowded and drier, great for those seeking quiet trails.

Marangu is the only route with hut accommodations, but it offers less time for acclimatization.

Hence, your choice should depend on your fitness, time, and comfort level with altitude.

How many days should I spend on the mountain?

Climbing Kilimanjaro should not be rushed. The longer you spend on the mountain, the better your chances of acclimatizing properly and reaching the summit safely.

Most climbers choose a seven or 8-day route. These extra days allow your body to adjust gradually to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes shorter than 6 days often lead to lower summit success and more health issues.

What kind of weather should I expect?

The weather on Kilimanjaro changes dramatically with altitude. You’ll experience five different climate zones, from tropical rainforest at the base to arctic conditions at the summit.

Days are warmer on the lower slopes (around 20–27°C / 68–80°F), while nights are much colder at higher altitudes.

Near the summit, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), especially before sunrise. Be ready for sun, wind, rain, and freezing temperatures—all in one climb.

What gear do I need to bring?

The essential items that are a must-have when climbing Kilimanjaro include: waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers, an insulated jacket, waterproof pants and jacket, gloves, a hat, a warm sleeping bag, a headlamp, and a daypack.

The support team carries your large duffel bag (up to 15 kg), while you have only a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a jacket. We always provide a complete Kilimanjaro Packing List.

How should I train and prepare for the climb?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you must be physically prepared by doing some intensive training for Kilimanjaro. The best way to train is by doing long-distance hikes with elevation gain while carrying a backpack.

Build your endurance 2–3 months before the trip with regular walking, stair climbing, strength training, and cardio.

Aim for 4–6-hour hikes at a steady pace. Most of all, get used to walking uphill and downhill for several days in a row.

Is it safe to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical mountain, but the high altitude can be risky. Good operators take safety seriously. Trained guides monitor your health every day using pulse oximeters and ask questions to check for signs of altitude sickness. Oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and emergency evacuation plans are standard. If you climb with an experienced team and follow their advice, the climb is safe and well-managed.

Why are some Kilimanjaro climbs much cheaper than others?

If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Budget operators often cut costs by paying porters unfair wages, overloading staff, using worn-out gear, or skipping proper meals and safety checks. These practices are not just unethical; they also affect your overall experience. Reputable companies charge more because they take care of their team, use better equipment, and focus on your safety and success.

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