We will guide you on this absolutely amazing, epic and awesome 7-day climb of Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, an exquisite trail that takes in the best scenery the mountain has to offer, from picturesque rainforests and rocky ridges, to mesmerizing glaciers and sublime views back out over the land from the highest point in Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro, nestled within the Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania, is a mountain standing 5895m high, and is famous for being the highest mountain in Africa. Ascending to the summit of the mountain is an immensely popular activity, with people also wanting to bear witness to the massive glaciers that dot the landscape.
Our journey begins in the town of Moshi, located very close to the mountain, and from here we drive to our starting point, Machame Gate.
After spending the first night in the Machame Camp (2980m), the subsequent 2 days are spent traipsing and travailing around rainforest, moorland, and arid, rocky terrain, with overnight stays at both Shira Camp (3840m) and Barranco Camp (3950m).
Most days of this trip are devoted to helping everyone acclimatize to the very high altitude that we encounter, with ascents to higher altitudes during the day before descending to lower heights at night.
Highlights of days 4 and 5 include tackling the Great Barranco Wall and views of Heim Glacier above the clouds.
Day 6 is the climax and undoubted highlight of our adventure, as we scale the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This part is very demanding, both physically and mentally, but the payoff is fantastic, as after 8 hours of intense hiking we make it to the highest point, Uhuru Peak (5895m), an astonishing place where we will allow you to admire the views and take photographs, feeling like you’re on top of the world!
We then begin our descent all the way back to our overnight camp of Mweka (3100m), and the finish the trip at Mweka Gate on day 7, hopefully weary, happy, satisfied and proud at having accomplished such a mighty feat.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a true bucket list item – Mount Kilimanjaro, nestled within the book now so you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
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The drive from Moshi to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes about 50 minutes. The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain.
We now leave the park gate and walk through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. Lower down, the trail can be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. We continue a short distance until we reach the Machame Camp.
After breakfast, we leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the little valley walking along a steep rocky ridge, covered with heather, until the ridge ends. The route now turns west onto a river gorge. Time for rest, dinner, and overnight at the Shira campsite.
From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day meant for acclimatization.
After breakfast, we leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portionof the trek.
At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all they way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). From the gate, you continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to hotel in Moshi.
The Tanzania National Park Map is a visually captivating guide, showcasing the diverse landscapes of this East African country. From the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro to the Serengeti plains, the map highlights key points of interest, wildlife habitats, and practical information for an optimal safari experience. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or adventure seeker, this concise and comprehensive map is your gateway to exploring Tanzania's renowned national parks, ensuring you don't miss the breathtaking sights and unique experiences they offer.
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