8 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route

Gallery

8 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route

8 Days

Overview

Experience the ultimate adventure with our 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expedition via the Machame Route. Towering at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro stands as the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. The Machame Route is renowned for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain, offering trekkers stunning views and an unforgettable climb. From lush rainforests to the icy summit, this route provides a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience.

Trip Highlights

Scenic Drive from Nairobi to Arusha: Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Nairobi to Arusha, including a stop at the Namanga border for immigration. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Arusha. Machame Hut Campsite: Hike to the Machame Hut campsite at 3,100 meters, where you'll experience your first night in the breathtaking Kilimanjaro National Park. Shira Hut Trek: Trek through the rainforest to Shira Hut, situated at 3,658 meters. Enjoy stunning views of the valley and river gorge along the way. Barranco Hut: Ascend to the Barranco Hut, bypassing the Lava Tower and Arrow Glacier. Revel in spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes from 3,860 meters. Barafu Hut: Climb to Barafu Hut at 4,600 meters, with opportunities to view both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Prepare for the summit push with a restful overnight stay. Summit Uhuru Peak: Make an early morning ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at 5,896 meters. Enjoy panoramic views and a sense of achievement before descending to Mweka Hut. Descent to Arusha: After reaching Mweka Hut at 3,100 meters, descend to the Mweka Park Gate and drive back to Arusha for a relaxing overnight stay. Return to Nairobi: Conclude your adventure with a drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon or evening, with cherished memories of your Kilimanjaro climb.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :

Nairobi – Arusha

Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Nairobi to Arusha. After breakfast, you’ll depart for Arusha, passing through the Namanga border for immigration formalities. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, exploring Arusha, a vibrant town at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Overnight at a comfortable Arusha hotel, preparing for the trek ahead.

Day 2 :

Arusha – Machame

Begin your ascent to Kilimanjaro National Park early in the morning. Upon arrival at the park gate, you’ll proceed to the Machame Hut campsite, situated at 3,100 meters. The hike, lasting approximately 6 hours, takes you through lush rainforests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Settle into your campsite for dinner and overnight stay, acclimatizing to the altitude.

Day 3 :

Machame – Shira

After breakfast, embark on a trek to Shira Hut. This 4-hour hike traverses through rainforests and then moves onto open moorlands, passing the valley and a steep rocky ridge. Shira Hut, located at 3,658 meters, offers breathtaking views of the valley and river gorge. Enjoy a restful evening at the campsite, surrounded by the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems.

Day 4 :

Shira – Barranco

Today, you’ll hike from Shira Hut to Barranco Hut, a journey of about 6 hours. The route bypasses the Lava Tower and passes the Arrow Glacier, reaching an altitude of 4,876 meters. As you descend slightly to Barranco Hut at 3,860 meters, you’ll witness stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. Settle in for a memorable sunset and dinner at the camp.

Day 5 :

Barranco – Barafu

Depart Barranco Hut after breakfast and continue to Karanga Valley, connecting with the Mweka trail. The trek to Barafu Hut, at an altitude of 4,600 meters, takes approximately 8 hours. Enjoy panoramic views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Barafu Hut serves as your base camp for the summit attempt, where you’ll prepare for the final ascent.

Day 6 :

Barafu – Mweka via Stella Point and Uhuru Peak

Rise early for your summit bid. The ascent to Stella Point at 5,745 meters is challenging, followed by a climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,896 meters. The entire summit trek takes about 6 hours. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Hut at 3,100 meters, a journey of approximately 5 hours. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay.

Day 7 :

Mweka – Arusha

After breakfast, descend from Mweka Hut to the Mweka Park Gate, a hike of about 4 hours. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha for a restful overnight stay. Reflect on your remarkable climb and relax after your epic journey.

Day 8 :

Arusha – Nairobi

Enjoy breakfast before departing Arusha for Nairobi. You will have the option to choose between a morning or afternoon shuttle, arriving in Nairobi by 1:00 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. Conclude your adventure with cherished memories of your Kilimanjaro climb and the stunning landscapes you’ve experienced.

Costs

The Cost Includes

List of Services:
Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Accommodation: 1 night in Arusha hotel before the trek and 1 night in Arusha hotel after the trek.
Park Fees: All necessary permits and park entrance fees for Kilimanjaro National Park.
Guides and Porters: Experienced and certified mountain guides, assistant guides, and porters to assist with your gear and ensure a successful climb.
Meals: All meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared by a skilled cook.
Camping Gear: Provision of high-quality tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
Transport: Transport from Arusha to the Machame Gate and return to Arusha.
Summit Certificates: Certificates of achievement for reaching Uhuru Peak or Stella Point.
Safety Equipment: Use of safety and first-aid equipment, including oxygen if needed.

The Cost Excludes

List of Services:
International Flights: Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Visa Fees: Any visa or immigration fees required to enter Tanzania.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering trek-related risks, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.
Personal Expenses: Items such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and beverages not included in the trek.
Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and support staff (recommended but not mandatory).
Extra Activities: Optional excursions or activities outside the planned itinerary.
Medical Costs: Any medical expenses incurred during or after the trek.