6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route

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Overview

Tour Summary

Itinerary

Inclusions

Accommodation

Tour map

FAQ

Overview

Machame route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is popular for its scenic beauty. The route starts on the southern side of the mountain and offers a gradual ascent profile, which increases the chances of summiting. However, the route is longer and steeper than the Marangu route, and requires a higher level of physical fitness and endurance.

Machame route exposes the climbers to different ecological zones, including rainforest, heath, and moorland, before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak. Along the way, climbers are treated to stunning views of the mountain and its surrounding landscapes. This route typically takes a climber six to seven days to complete, allowing for adequate acclimatization to the altitude.

Tour Summary

Start: Arusha, Tanzania
End: Arusha, Tanzania
Destinations: Mount Kilimanjaro
Activity: Hiking
Physical level: Medium
Max group size: Any size

Itinerary

Day 1 Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha

On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be met by ours driver who will transfer you to Arusha for accommodation at Planet lodge on full board basis. While you’re at lodge our mountain climb professional guide will hold a briefing meeting to orients you to what you should anticipate during your summiting tour to Mt. Kilimanjaro (The roof of Africa).

Day 2: Arusha to Machame Gate (1,790 m) to Machame Camp (3,010 m)

This is a day you will start your Journey to the roof of Africa. You will wake up at early morning for final preparations and breakfast; after breakfast, our driver will transfer you to Machame gate ready to start trekking. While your guide handles the registration forms to National park authorities, you can take the time to read the information boards.

After all entrance logistics and compliance, you will start your trekking adventure through the cool and dense rainforest with lush green moss and lichen carpeting the ground and tall trees sheltering you from the sun. During trekking you will spot the black and white colobus monkeys on the branches of trees. 5 to 6 hours later, you will arrive at Machame Camp; here you will have made it to an altitude of 3010 m above the sea level. A day mission is complete; you will have your dinner and overnight in this camp while enjoying the stunning view of the Mountain.

Day 3: Machame Camp (3,010 m) to New Shira Camp (3,845 m)

Wake up early in the morning for breakfast. After breakfast you will proceeds your ascent, leaving the rainforest behind and entering the moor and heath land. This day things have changed as you head to higher altitude and mountain becomes steeper. As you keep on ascending you will experience high pressure compression due to altitude attained, you shouldn’t worry out that is basic when you climb a mountain.

In the afternoon, you will reach your destination (New Shira Camp (3,845 m) where you can enjoy a view of the sun glistening against the rock face and glacier of Kibo. A day mission is again complete; spend your time stretching your legs, exchanging ideas with your mountain guide, and enjoying the stunning view of the mountain. You will have your dinner and overnight at New Shira Camp.

Day 4: New Shira Camp (3,845 m) to Lava Tower (4,640 m) to Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

Today, you will climb 700m, with a mixed move (Ascending to Lava Tower and descending to Barranco Camp). This will help your body acclimatize to the altitude changes. You will start your trek by ascending above the Shira Plateau towards the Lava Tower (4,640 m). The landscape changes to an alpine desert and the vegetation decreases. Thereafter you descend through the sweeping Barranco Valley, with its lobelia and giant senecio plants. Finally you will arrive at the Barranco Camp, the most beautiful camp on the mountain. The entire trekking of a day will take you roughly 6 to 7 hours. Later you will have your evening meal and spend a night at Barranco Camp.

Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,960 m) to Barafu Camp (4,640 m)

Today, you will climb the “Barranco Wall” where you will need a steady hold. Your guides will be there to assist you wherever necessary. You will walk across the ridge while enjoying beautiful views of Kibo’s south glacier. In the Karanga Valley, you will stop for lunch before embarking on a 2 to 3-hour climb to Barafu Camp (4,640 m). You will have a well-deserved break, evening meal, and an early sleeping at the camp to keep your body fit for the summiting day.

Day 6 Barafu Camp (4,640 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

This is Uhuru peak summiting day, a very exciting and unforgettable day. Your mountain guide and mountain crew will awaken you with a hot tea and light snacks at the midnight before the beginning of ascent. Thereafter you will be guided by your headlight as you ascend the screeds of Kibo. After 5 to 6 hours of walking, you will reach Stella Point. From there, you will follow the crater ridge and finally arrive at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), your life dream destiny.

At the summit (Uhuru Peak) you will celebrate a bit, taking photo, and enjoy a 360° view of Africa from its roof. Thereafter you will descend along the same route and arrive at Barafu Camp just before midday. At Barafu camp you will be welcomed by the happier faces of your mountain crew, have a hot meal and some relaxation time before descending further for 1 – 2 hours to Mweka Camp (3,080 m). At Mweka Camp, you will have your evening meal and spend a night here with full unforgettable memory of Uhuru peak.

Day 7 Mweka Camp (3,080 m) – Mweka Gate (1,630 m) – Arusha

On Day 7, after breakfast and a traditional farewell ceremony, you will begin your gentle descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,630 m). Your driver will be waiting for you there to take you back to the Planet Lodge, where you will relax at the pool and celebrate your achievement.

Day 8 Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport.

On Day 8, after breakfast, lightly town tour to gift shops, later get hot lunch, then you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport to catch up your departure flight. If you would like to extend your stay in Tanzania, you have the option to arrange a 2-3 days wildlife safari or relax at the Beach of Indian Ocean.

Inclusions

Price Includes

  • Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Mountain crew (cook & porters)
  • Overnight stays in hotels and mountain tents
  • Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc.)
  • Portable toilet and toilet tent
  • Meals according to the itinerary
  • Drinking water
  • All national park fees
  • All mentioned transfers

Price Excludes

  • Sleeping bag
  • Flights
  • Optional activities
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
  • Travel insurance

This is the end of your Itinerary. I believe you will leave Tanzania with a full memory of unforgettable Kilimanjaro (the roof of Africa) Summiting.

Accommodation

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens in case of emergency on the mountain?

In the event of an emergency during the Kilimanjaro climb, the mountain rescue services in Tanzania are not comparable to those found in the European Alps. If you cannot walk, you will either be carried or transported on a wheeled stretcher, which is an unpleasant experience. It is important to only push yourself as far as your body allows to prevent emergencies. Helicopters are not often deployed due to altitude limitations. It is recommended to have adequate health insurance coverage for medical expenses, including rescue and repatriation costs.

Is tipping required for the mountain crew?

Tipping the mountain crew is a common practice, and gratuities are a large portion of the crew’s income, so they are highly appreciated. Recommended tipping amounts per group, not per person, are provided by the tour provider.

How can I cope with altitude sickness during the climb?

Almost everyone climbing Kilimanjaro will be affected by altitude sickness in some way. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and nausea. It is essential to replace lost body fluids by drinking enough water and taking magnesium to prevent muscle cramps. Mild symptoms allow continuing the hike, but severe altitude sickness is a serious matter and can be life-threatening. It is vital to bear in mind that a medical descent may be required.

 

What meals will be provided during the climb?

Meals are included in the itinerary. For breakfast, there is a choice of fruit, scrambled eggs, porridge, toast, jam, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Lunch is provided in a lunch box containing sandwiches, boiled eggs, chicken, etc. Dinner consists of soup and bread followed by meat or poultry with starch (i.e., chips, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice) and vegetables, topped off with dessert in the form of fresh fruit, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, and milk. Special dietary requirements or food allergies can be catered with advanced notification.

 

How big is the group?

This is a private tour, and there won’t be any other climbers joining the group. The group will only consist of the people who chose to travel together and their mountain crew.

Is there an age limitation for this climb?

Yes, there is an age limitation for this climb. Climbers must be at least 18 years old to participate. This is to ensure that climbers have the necessary physical and mental maturity to undertake the climb safely and responsibly.

Can I bring my own climbing gear?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own climbing gear. However, it must meet our safety requirements and pass a safety inspection before use. If you are unsure whether your gear meets our safety standards, we recommend renting equipment from our facility.

Do I need prior climbing experience?

Prior climbing experience is not required, but it is recommended. Our climb is designed to be accessible to climbers of all skill levels, but it can be physically demanding. We recommend that you are in good physical shape and have some familiarity with climbing techniques.

Is there a weight limit for climbers?

Yes, there is a weight limit for climbers. Climbers must weigh between 100 and 250 pounds to participate. This is to ensure that our safety equipment can support your weight and that you can physically handle the demands of the climb.

What happens in case of inclement weather?

In the event of inclement weather, we may need to postpone or cancel the climb for safety reasons. We will do our best to notify you as soon as possible if this occurs and work with you to reschedule your climb for a later date.

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