Tour Overview

The Machame Route is the most popular trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its stunning scenery, excellent acclimatization profile, and high summit success rate.

This route takes you through five ecological zones: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zone. It is challenging but rewarding, making it ideal for adventurous hikers.

With Okapi Expedition, you will be guided by experienced mountain professionals ensuring safety, comfort, and an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

Day 0: Arrival – Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be welcomed by your Okapi Expedition driver and transferred to your hotel in Moshi.

This day is for rest and preparation. Your guide will give a full briefing about the climb, equipment check, and safety instructions.

Accommodation: Kilimanjaro White House Hotel or Similar

Day 1: Moshi to Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft

Distance: 11 km

Time: 5–7 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Drive to Machame Gate and begin trekking through dense tropical rainforest. Expect muddy trails, giant trees, and wildlife such as colobus monkeys.

The hike is steep but beautiful, leading to Machame Camp where dinner and overnight rest await.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft

Distance: 5 km

Time: 4–6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Leave the rainforest and enter open moorland terrain. The views of Kilimanjaro become more dramatic as you climb higher.

Cross rivers and rocky ridges before arriving at Shira 2 Camp on the Shira Plateau.

Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 12,500 ft → 15,190 ft → 13,044 ft

Distance: 10 km

Time: 6–8 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. This day is crucial for adapting to altitude.

The scenery is dramatic, with volcanic formations and unique vegetation like giant Senecio plants.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Distance: 5.5 km

Time: 4–5 hours

Climb the famous Barranco Wall — a thrilling but non-technical rock scramble. Continue through ridges to Karanga Valley Camp.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft

Distance: 4 km

Time: 4–5 hours

Steep ascent to Barafu Camp, the final base before summit attempt. Rest early and prepare for midnight summit push.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 15,331 ft → 19,341 ft → 10,065 ft

Distance: 17 km

Time: 11–13 hours

Start midnight summit climb under freezing conditions. Reach Stella Point at sunrise and continue to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Distance: 10 km

Time: 3–4 hours

Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate where you receive your summit certificate.

Transfer back to Moshi for celebration and rest.

Day 8: Departure

Transfer from hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight back home. End of your unforgettable adventure with Okapi Expedition.

Price

USD 1900 per person

Inclusions

• Airport transfers
• 2 nights hotel in Moshi
• 7-day Kilimanjaro trek
• Park fees & rescue fees
• Professional guides & porters
• All meals on mountain
• Emergency oxygen
• Camping equipment
• Private toilet

Exclusions

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Tips

FAQ