Machame Route Itinerary
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
Follow Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and photogenic trail
Pass through five ecological zones
Built-in acclimatization day at Lava Tower
Stunning campsites: Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, Karanga Camp
Cross the dramatic Barranco Wall — a highlight of the trek
Witness sunrise from Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
Led by IntelSafari’s certified, experienced guides
Enjoy personal porters, private tents, and exceptional support
Why Book This Route
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where your IntelSafari team warmly welcomes you. Transfer to your hotel in Moshi for rest, a detailed trek briefing, and equipment check with your guide.
Journey Time: ~1 hour / 40 km
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge or similar
Transfer to Machame Gate (1,800 m) for registration and team introductions. Begin your trek through a lush rainforest filled with giant trees and unique flora. You may spot blue monkeys as you ascend steadily to Machame Camp (2,835 m).
Distance: ~11 km / 7 miles
Elevation Gain: +1,035 m
Hiking Time: 4.5–5 hours
Accommodation: Machame Camp (Tented)
Emerge from the rainforest into moorland and marvel at expansive views of the Shira Plateau. After reaching Shira Camp (3,750 m), enjoy an acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower before returning to camp.
Distance: ~5 km + acclimatization hike
Elevation Gain: +915 m
Hiking Time: ~6 hours
Accommodation: Shira Cave Camp (Tented)
Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m) for essential acclimatization. After lunch, descend to Barranco Camp (3,900 m). Enjoy views of the towering Barranco Wall, which you’ll climb the following day.
Distance: ~10 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: Gain to 4,600 m, descend to 3,900 m
Hiking Time: 6.5–7 hours
Accommodation: Barranco Camp (Tented)
Climb the famous Barranco Wall — a fun and rewarding scramble with amazing views. Traverse the Karanga Valley, passing glacial streams en route to Karanga Camp (3,995 m).
Distance: ~5 km
Elevation Gain: +95 m
Hiking Time: 3.5–4 hours
Accommodation: Karanga Camp (Tented)
Ascend gradually through alpine desert to Barafu Camp (4,673 m), your base for the summit push. After lunch and early dinner, rest and prepare for your midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Distance: ~5 km
Elevation Gain: +678 m
Hiking Time: 3.5–4 hours
Accommodation: Barafu Camp (Tented)
Begin your summit push at midnight, climbing steep scree to Stella Point (5,756 m) and onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) for sunrise. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu Camp, then continue to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for overnight rest.
Distance: ~17 km / 10 miles
Elevation Gain: +1,222 m
Elevation Loss: -2,795 m
Hiking Time: 11–14 hours
Accommodation: Mweka Camp (Tented)
Descend through lush forest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m) where you’ll receive your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate. Return to Moshi for celebration and well-deserved relaxation.
Distance: ~10 km / 6 miles
Elevation Loss: -1,460 m
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge or similar
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or continue on an IntelSafari Tanzania safari if booked.
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
Airport Transfer Included
Safari Snapshots
