How Fit Should You Be for the Machame Route?

While reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit is achievable for anyone in good health, it’s essential to be prepared for the challenges of altitude and varied weather conditions. Here's how to boost your chances: Pace yourself: Slow, steady hiking helps your body adjust to higher altitudes. Train ahead: Regular hiking, multi-day treks, running, or aerobic workouts can make a significant difference. Add an acclimatization day: We highly recommend including an extra day to allow your body more time to adapt, significantly increasing your success rate. Need help preparing? Feel free to reach out or check our blog: "How to Prepare for Climbing Kilimanjaro." Are you ready for an unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa?

9 Days: Kilimanjaro Adventure via the Iconic Machame Route

Q: Why Choose Kiware Africa Safari Tours?

At Kiware Africa Safari Tours, we understand that the small details make the biggest difference. Throughout your climb, you’ll be supported by professional English-speaking guides, dedicated porters, and a skilled cook who monitors your health twice a day and prepares nourishing meals essential for your success at high altitude. We also provide a comprehensive preparation package — including detailed information about Tanzania, Kilimanjaro, necessary gear, and tips to optimize your fitness before your adventure.And as proud members of the Kilimanjaro Responsible Travel Organization (KRTO), we are committed to ethical tourism practices, taking excellent care of both our team and the environment. Want to check out the menu? We’re happy to send it to you before your climb!

Tour type
Private safari
Group Size
2 - 7 Persons
Local transportation
Bus, Airlines
Language
English, Spanish, French, Chinese
Arrival on
Arusha
Departure from
Arusha
Water
Unlimited drinking
Meals
All meals during the trek
First aid kit
Available
Fitness level
Hard
Minimum Age
15
Maximum Age
60

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

FAQs

Map

Overview

Join Kiware Africa Safari Tours on one of the world’s most breathtaking climbs — the famous Machame Route! Known as the most scenic path to Africa’s highest peak, the Machame Route offers spectacular views of Mount Meru, an exhilarating climb along the Barranco Wall, and diverse, well-maintained trails. Unlike other routes, Machame follows a unique ascent and descent path, allowing you to experience even more of Kilimanjaro’s stunning landscapes.

Make Your Dream Adventure a Reality with Kiware Africa Safari Tours

At Kiware Africa Safari Tours, your journey is fully customizable! Our sample itineraries are just a starting point — we’ll work closely with you to design a personalized adventure that matches your dreams and preferences.

Let’s start planning your unforgettable trip — request this adventure today!

Itinerary Summary – Machame Route (9 Days)

Day 1: Arrival

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Meet and greet, transfer to your hotel for rest and final preparations.

Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Start of the Machame Route (1/6).
Trek from Machame Gate (1,800 m / 5,905 ft) to Machame Camp (2,835 m / 9,301 ft) through lush rainforest.

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Machame Route (2/6).
Hike from Machame Camp (2,835 m / 9,301 ft) to Shira Camp (3,839 m / 12,595 ft), crossing moorland with expansive views.

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Machame Route (3/6).
Trek from Shira Camp (3,839 m / 12,595 ft) to Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), then descend to Barranco Camp (3,950 m / 12,959 ft) for acclimatization.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Machame Route (4/6).
Climb the famous Barranco Wall and trek onward to Barafu Camp (4,645 m / 15,239 ft), your base before the summit push.

Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Machame Route (5/6).
Midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft), the Roof of Africa!
After celebrating at the summit, descend to Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) for a well-deserved rest.

Day 7: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

Machame Route (6/6).
Final descent from Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft).
Transfer back to your hotel to relax and celebrate your achievement.

Day 8 – 9: Departure

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.
Optional: Extra day for relaxation or local excursions before departure (upon request).

Why Choose Kiware Africa Safari Tours?

✅ Exceptional Service – We are committed to delivering the highest level of care from start to finish.
✅ Fastest Response Times – Your questions are answered quickly and professionally.
✅ 100% Tanzania Focused – We specialize exclusively in Tanzania, offering deep local expertise.
✅ Local Travel Experts – Our skilled consultants live and work in Tanzania, giving you insider access.
✅ World-Class Safari Guides – Travel with experienced, passionate guides who bring every journey to life.
✅ Competitive Pricing – Enjoy outstanding value without compromising quality.
✅ Top-Rated Private Safaris – Experience Tanzania your way with highly personalized, private tours.

Highlights

Check-in baggage is limited to 35 pounds (ie: 15 kg).
Overweight or extra luggage will require an extra porter at a rate of $10/bag/day
You can leave extra luggage at your hotel in Arusha or at our office (do not leave any valuables like cash, jewelry, electronics, etc)
4 nights accommodation

Day 01 :

Welcome to Tanzania – Arrival and Climb Preparation.

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a friendly representative from Kiware Africa Safari Tours will be there to greet you. After a warm welcome, you'll be transferred to your hotel where you can unwind and recover from your journey.

Later, you’ll meet your expert mountain guide for a detailed briefing. During this session, you'll receive important tips on what to wear, how to pack, and how to prepare mentally and physically for the days ahead — ensuring you're ready for a safe, comfortable, and successful climb!

Day 02 :

Into the Rainforest – Machame Gate to Machame Camp (1/6).

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at the hotel and drive you to Machame Gate (1,800 m / 5,905 ft), where your Kilimanjaro adventure officially begins!
The trail starts by winding through lush coffee and banana plantations before entering a pristine rainforest filled with dense greenery and towering trees.Today's trek takes about five to six hours, gradually leading you to Machame Camp (2,835 m / 9,301 ft), located at the edge of the rainforest and the start of the heather zone.
Since this is your first night at higher altitude, it’s important to pace yourself and stay well-hydrated throughout the day.

Day 03 :

Machame route (2/6) | Machame Camp (2,835 m/9,301 ft) to Shira Camp (3,839 m/12,595 ft)

This second day on the mountain starts with another nice climb that is a little steeper. You first pass to a small circular cliff known as the picnic rock where you are rewarded with stunning views of Kibo (a peak of Kilimanjaro) and Shira (one of the other volcanic peaks). From the picnic rock, you hike on to Shira Camp via a beautiful route to have lunch and rest. If you wish, you can take an acclimatisation walk towards the Lava Tower (to an altitude of 4630 meters and a distance of 2 km).

Day 04 :

Highs and Lows – Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (3/6).

oday's trek takes you from Shira Camp (3,839 m / 12,595 ft) to the striking Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). Along the way, you’ll experience several ascents and descents, with spectacular views unfolding at every turn.

At Lava Tower, you'll break for lunch and spend about one to two hours resting and letting your body acclimate to the higher altitude — a crucial step, as the effects of the thin air might start to be felt.

After your break, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp (3,950 m / 12,959 ft). Keep your eyes open for the surreal giant groundsels and other unusual plants that can grow up to five meters tall!
Tonight, you’ll camp at the base of the awe-inspiring Barranco Wall, a massive cliff face that will challenge and amaze you tomorrow.

Day 05 :

Machame route (4/6) | Barranco Camp (3,950 m/12,959 ft) - Barafu Camp (4,645 m/15,239 ft).

After breakfast, you depart Barranco Camp and hike towards Barranco Wall. After a challenging but enjoyable route, you reach the top of the Barranco wall and have a spectacular view of the Kibo volcano to your left and of the distant Mount Meru to your right. Then a more difficult hike starts through Karanga Camp, with many ascents and descents, after which you reach your camp for the night: Barafu Camp, the last camp before the summit! Enjoy a hot meal and make sure to relax and sleep, before your final ascent to the summit!

Day 06 :

Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp (5/6).

The big moment has arrived!
Around midnight, you’ll depart from Barafu Camp (4,645 m / 15,239 ft) and begin your final ascent toward Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) — the highest point in Africa.
The trail is well-marked, but the real challenge today is the high altitude and the cold.

As you approach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable sight: a breathtaking sunrise from the Roof of Africa!
After a short but emotional celebration at the peak, you'll begin your descent back down, taking it slowly and carefully, until you reach the beautiful Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) for a well-earned rest.

Day 07 :

Final Descent – Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel (6/6).

You’ll wake up at Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft), surrounded by the lush greenery of a tropical rainforest. The lower altitude brings a refreshing sense of relief — and the pride of knowing you’ve conquered Kilimanjaro!

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll enjoy a gentle, easy hike down to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft), where you officially complete your epic trek.

At the gate, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel — ready for a well-deserved rest and celebration!

Day 08 - 09 :

Departure – Flight Home from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

All great adventures must come to an end.
Enjoy your final hours in Tanzania, soaking in the memories of your incredible journey.
When the time comes, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.

Not ready to leave just yet?
You can easily extend your adventure by adding a few days on safari or relaxing on the beautiful beaches — the perfect way to complete your unforgettable trip!