Machame Route: Trail overview
The Machame Route to Kilimanjaro is the true test of endurance and determination, rewarded by the stunning beauty of the trail and higher success rates in reaching the summit.
The trek typically takes around six days to complete, although it's highly recommended to extend it to seven days to allow for proper acclimatization and enhance your chances of summiting. As you approach the mountain from the southwest, you'll embark on a thrilling journey that promises incredible landscapes and a sense of accomplishment like no other. Unlike the Marangu Route, which offers sleeping huts along the way, the Machame Route presents a more arduous and rugged experience. Throughout the journey, you'll sleep in designated campsites, setting up your tents under the vast African sky, immersing yourself in the wilderness.
When it comes to reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro, you have two options. The majority of trekkers opt for the long Barafu Trail, which treats you to breathtaking views of the Rebmann Glacier. Alternatively, there's the Western Breach Route, a more thrilling and adventurous choice that takes you through the iconic Lava Tower and the awe-inspiring Arrow Glacier.
Climbing facts for the Machame Route
| Trek difficulty: | Difficult (no uniformity in climb height) |
| Trek duration: | 6 to 10 days |
| Max altitude: | 5,895 meters |
| Accommodation: | Camping |
| Best season: | July to September |
| Success rate: | 90% (eight-day hike),85% (seven-day hike), 60% (six-day hike) |
Seven-day sample itinerary for the Machame Route
Summiting Kilimanjaro via the Machame route is an exhilarating and challenging adventure. Most trekkers prefer a seven-day or an eight-day itinerary for this expedition.
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Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (4 to 6 hours)
The adventure begins at the Machame Gate, where you'll register and embark on your Kilimanjaro trek. Setting foot on the trail, you'll find yourself surrounded by the lush beauty of the rainforest. The air is filled with the melodies of tropical birds, and sunlight filters through the canopy overhead. As you hike deeper into the forest, the towering trees create a sense of serenity and anticipation. Your first day concludes at the Machame Camp, nestled in a picturesque setting amidst the greenery.
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Day 2:Machame Camp to Shira Camp (4 to 6 hours)
Waking up to the fresh mountain air, you'll continue your ascent through the captivating landscape. Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail opens up to the expansive Shira Plateau. Walking across the undulating terrain, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. In the distance, the distinct silhouette of the Lava Tower stands as a testament to the volcanic origins of the region. Your second night is spent at the Shira Camp, where the vastness of the plateau unfolds before your eyes.
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Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (6 to 8 hours)
The day dawns with a sense of excitement as you venture further into the alpine desert zone. The path leads you through a stark and rugged landscape with minimal vegetation and towering rock formations. The Barranco Wall, a striking rock face, becomes the highlight of the day's journey. With careful footwork and the assistance of your guides, you conquer the wall, rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the Barranco Valley below. The day concludes at the Barranco Camp, nestled within the valley's embrace.
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Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3 to 4 hours)
As the sun rises, you resume your trek along the southern circuit. The trail winds its way through the picturesque Karanga Valley, a serene oasis amidst the barren slopes. The stark contrast between the surrounding rocky cliffs and the lush vegetation of the valley creates a surreal ambiance. Climbing higher, you reach the Karanga Camp, where you'll spend the night surrounded by the rugged beauty of the high-altitude landscape.
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Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (3 to 4 hours)
On this day, leaving the Karanga Camp, you make your way to the base camp at Barafu. The path becomes steeper, and the air grows thinner as you ascend. Towering above you, the glacial slopes of Kilimanjaro seem both formidable and enticing. Barafu Camp serves as your launching pad for the summit attempt, offering a place to rest and gather strength for the challenging endeavor ahead.
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Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (10 to 14 hours)
In the dead of night, your final push to the summit begins. Armed with headlamps, you navigate the scree slopes in the darkness, following the faint glow of your guides' lights. With each step, anticipation and determination fuel your ascent. As the night sky slowly transforms into hues of orange and pink, the first rays of sunlight paint the landscape in an ethereal glow. At Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro, you stand in awe, gazing at the vast African plains below. A surge of emotions washes over you as you celebrate this extraordinary achievement.
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Day 7: Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp (4 to 6 hours)
The final day is dedicated to descending the mountain. The trail leads you through the lush rainforest, where the sounds of nature accompany your every step. You bid farewell to the towering trees, the symphony of birdsong, and the tranquility of the forest. Arriving at the Mweka Gate, you receive your well-deserved summit certificates, a tangible reminder of your triumph over Kilimanjaro. From there, you return to your accommodations, carrying with you memories of the breathtaking landscapes, personal growth, and the indomitable spirit that defined your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Note: The duration mentioned for each day is approximated and will vary according to your trekking pace, weather conditions, and group dynamics.
Facts on trekking the Machame Route
- The Machame Route covers a 62-kilometer-long distance.
- Machame is 25 kilometers northwest of Moshi. Most trekkers only pass by this quaint village briefly while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro using the Machame Route.
- While the Machame route is popular, it is generally less crowded than the Marangu Route, which has more hikers due to its shorter duration.
- If you prefer comfortable accommodations like huts or lodges, you can’t get them on the Machame Route. The route is famous for its camping.
- You will need a licensed guide to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, so using a tour operator (like us) is recommended.
Planning a Machame Route trek? Go through the above-listed tours or fill out the customized Tanzania trip form to tailor your trip from scratch.