Machame Route

Conditions And Distance

Spanning approximately 62 kilometers, the Machame Route starts from the southern base of Kilimanjaro, meandering through a diverse range of ecosystems. From lush rainforests and moorlands to the barren alpine desert and the icy summit, each day introduces a new facet of the mountain.

• Trail: The Machame Route is steep, rough, and at times, exposed.
• Weather: Conditions are highly varied, from humid tropics at the base to sub-zero temperatures at the peak.
• Wildlife: The early stages in the rainforest are home to a variety of bird species and monkeys.

Day-By-Day Breakdown

The Machame Route's typical journey is as follows:

• Day 1 – Machame Gate to Machame Camp: The trek starts in the rich Montane forest, providing a chance to witness the region's unique flora and fauna.
• Day 2 – Machame Camp to Shira Camp: Transition from the forest to the moorland zone with sweeping views across the Shira Plateau.
• Day 3 – Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp: Acclimatization day includes a hike to the Lava Tower followed by a descent to the scenic Barranco Camp.
• Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp: Ascend the imposing Barranco Wall before heading down to Karanga Camp.
• Day 5 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp: Navigate the alpine desert to Barafu Camp, where climbers rest before the summit push.
• Day 6 – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp: An early start to reach the summit, followed by a descent to Mweka Camp.
• Day 7 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate: Descend through the lush rainforest to the Mweka Gate, marking the end of the journey.

The Machame Route is suited to adventurous trekkers who relish a physical challenge and are captivated by varied and dramatic scenery. If you possess a reasonable level of fitness, and determination, and have no issues with crowds, then Machame could be your ideal route for Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing.