6-Day Machame Route
Overview
The Marangu Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This may be partly because Marangu is the least expensive route, but more importantly, the Marangu Route can be completed in 5 days, reaching the summit one day earlier than the Machame Route. However, because of the shorter acclimatization period, this is not always the best approach.
The Marangu Route does, however, offer the option of adding an extra day on the mountain for acclimatization. This extends the trek to 6 days, significantly increasing your chances of a successful ascent.
The shared hut accommodation is one of the main differences between the Marangu Route and other routes. It offers the relative comfort of sleeping in huts throughout the entire route. All camps along the route also sell bottled mineral water, soft drinks, chocolate, and beer.
All your equipment and supplies are carried by porters, while a cook prepares all your meals.
Inclusions / Exclusions
- Accommodation as per the itinerary
- 4×4 safari vehicle transportation
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Professional English-speaking safari chef
- Overnight accommodation in safari tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables, etc.)
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Bottled mineral water
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- All national park fees
- Sleeping bags
- Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips / gratuities
- Personal expenses, such as souvenirs
- Travel insurance
Itinerary
Elevation: 5,400 ft to 9,400 ft
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
The drive from Moshi to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes approximately 50 minutes. The journey passes through Machame Village, located on the lower slopes of the mountain.
We now leave the park gate and follow a winding trail through the rainforest, ascending along the ridge. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended here.
We continue along the trail for a short distance until we reach Machame Camp.
Elevation: 9,400 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
After breakfast, we leave the rainforest clearing and continue along the ascending trail, crossing a small valley and walking along a steep, rocky ridge covered with heather until the ridge comes to an end. The route then turns west toward the river gorge.
We arrive at Shira Camp, where we rest, enjoy dinner, and spend the night.
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
From the Shira Plateau, we continue eastward along the ridge, passing the junction leading toward the summit of Kibo Peak. As we proceed, we change direction toward the southeast, heading for the Lava Tower, also known as the “Shark’s Tooth.”
Shortly after the tower, we reach a second junction that leads toward the Arrow Glacier, at an elevation of 16,000 ft. We then continue descending to Barranco Camp, situated at 13,000 ft. Here, we rest, enjoy dinner, and spend the night.
Although you finish the day at approximately the same elevation at which you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and helps prepare your body for summit day.
Elevation: 13,000 ft to 15,000 ft
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, we leave Barranco Camp and continue along the steep ridge, passing the Barranco Wall before reaching Karanga Valley Camp. We then leave Karanga and arrive at the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail.
We continue ascending to Barafu Camp. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, offering spectacular views of the summit from several different angles. Here, we set up camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for summit day.
From this location, you can see both Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Peak.
Elevation: 10,000 ft to 5,400 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, we continue descending to Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles can be helpful. Shorts and a T-shirt may be sufficient, but be prepared with rain gear and warm clothing.
From the gate, you continue hiking for another hour to Mweka Village. Our vehicle will meet you there and drive you back to your hotel in Arusha.
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