Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins after breakfast with a drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, located on the southwestern side of the mountain. After registration and briefing with your guides, the trek starts through the dense and vibrant montane rainforest, where you might spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds.

The trail is moderate but steady as you ascend to Machame Camp, where you’ll rest and enjoy your first night under the stars. The evening meal is served in the mess tent, followed by a briefing about the next day’s hike.

Distance: 11 km | Time: 5–7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

Day 2: Machame Camp (3,000m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)

After breakfast, the trail leads you out of the rainforest into the heath and moorland zone, where giant heathers and unique plants like lobelias decorate the path. The hike continues along ridges and open hillsides, giving breathtaking views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau.

Arrive at Shira Camp, located on a high plateau with stunning views of Kibo Peak. Spend the evening enjoying a hot dinner while watching a spectacular sunset over the plains below.

Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Shira Camp (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) and Barranco Camp (3,950m)

This is an important acclimatization day. The route gradually climbs toward Lava Tower, a volcanic formation at 4,630 meters. You’ll have lunch at this high point and rest briefly before descending to Barranco Camp.

The descent helps your body adapt to altitude while offering magnificent views of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall. The camp sits below the towering wall and provides a peaceful night under the African sky.

Distance: 10 km | Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Semi-desert

Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

After breakfast, begin the day by climbing the Barranco Wall, one of the most exciting parts of the Machame Route. Though it appears intimidating, it is a safe and enjoyable climb that doesn’t require technical skills.

Once at the top, you’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Heim Glacier and the southern slopes of Kibo. The trail then leads across alpine desert terrain toward Barafu Camp, your base camp before the summit attempt.

After an early dinner, your guides will brief you on the summit hike and advise on rest and hydration.

Distance: 9 km | Time: 6–7 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Your summit day begins just after midnight. After a light snack, start your final ascent in the cold, dark hours of the morning. The climb to Stella Point (5,739m) is challenging but incredibly rewarding. From there, the trail gently ascends along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Celebrate your achievement at the summit, take memorable photos, and enjoy the sunrise over the African plains before beginning your descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch. Continue further down to Mweka Camp for your final overnight stay on the mountain.

Distance: 17 km | Time: 11–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic zone to rainforest

Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Moshi

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificates. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi for a hot shower, rest, and a well-deserved celebration dinner.

Distance: 10 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest