The Machame Route on Kilimanjaro (6 days)
Where you'll be
Embark on the ultimate adventure with our 8-day Lemosho Route trek, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and rewarding climbs. Starting in the lush rainforest, you’ll journey through diverse landscapes—moors, lava towers, and stunning alpine deserts—before conquering the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
This extended trek offers gradual acclimatization and includes thrilling highlights like scaling the Barranco Wall and exploring the vast Shira Plateau. The Lemosho Route is perfect for adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience with stunning views, a higher success rate, and plenty of time to soak in Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.
Ready to take on the challenge and stand on the roof of Africa? Let’s make it happen!
6 days | ~6 km (~4 miles) | Once-in-a-lifetime experience
Cancellation flexibility
What you'll do
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Elevation: 1,800m (5,900ft) to 3,000m (9,840ft)
- Distance: ~11 km (~7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- You’ll start the hike at Machame Gate, entering the lush rainforest. The trail is scenic but can be muddy and slippery, so be prepared. The first night is spent at Machame Camp, located above the treeline.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Elevation: 3,000m (9,840ft) to 3,840m (12,600ft)
- Distance: ~5 km (~3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- The day begins with a steep ascent, leaving the rainforest and entering the moorland zone. You’ll hike through open landscapes with views of Kibo Peak. Shira Camp is located on the Shira Plateau, offering expansive views.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 3,840m (12,600ft) to 4,630m (15,190ft) to 3,950m (13,000ft)
- Distance: ~10 km (~6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- This is an acclimatization day where you’ll hike up to Lava Tower (4,630m) and then descend to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is excellent for adjusting to the altitude. The day ends at Barranco Camp, situated below the famous Barranco Wall.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 3,950m (13,000ft) to 4,640m (15,090ft)
- Distance: ~9 km (~5.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- You’ll start by climbing the Barranco Wall, which is steep but not technical. After reaching the top, the trail becomes easier as you cross a series of ridges and valleys, leading to Karanga Camp for a rest before heading to Barafu Camp. Barafu is your base camp before the summit attempt.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) and down to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,640m (15,090ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,100m (10,170ft)
- Distance: ~17 km (~10.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 11-14 hours
- Your summit attempt starts around midnight, ascending through a rocky path to Stella Point and then to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100m (10,170ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft)
- Distance: ~10 km (~6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- The final day involves a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificate. You’ll then be driven back to your hotel to celebrate your achievement.
This 6-day Machame Route is more challenging due to its shorter time frame but remains one of the most scenic routes on the mountain
All of our guides are experts and locals
Things to know
Challenging but Scenic: The Machame Route is known for its beauty and variety in landscapes, but it’s also a physically demanding trek. Be prepared for steep ascents, especially the Barranco Wall, and the challenging final summit push.
Acclimatization: While shorter than other routes, the Machame Route uses the “climb high, sleep low” technique to help with acclimatization, especially with the Lava Tower and Barranco Camp descent. Altitude sickness is still possible, so pay attention to your body.
Summit Night: The ascent to Uhuru Peak starts at midnight on Day 5. It’s a long, cold, and steep climb, but the reward of reaching the summit at sunrise is truly unforgettable.
Weather Conditions: Kilimanjaro’s weather can be unpredictable. Be ready for rain in the rainforest zone, and cold temperatures at higher altitudes, especially at night. Layering and waterproof gear are essential.
Physical Preparation: The Machame Route requires a good level of physical fitness. Steady hiking, steep climbs, and high altitudes can be tough, so training before the trek is highly recommended.
Camp Life: You’ll be staying in camps rather than huts, so pack accordingly. Tents are provided, but you’ll need a warm sleeping bag as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Pack Light, Pack Smart: Your main bag will be carried by porters, but you should carry a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, a rain jacket, and extra layers.
Altitude Effects: The high elevation can cause headaches, nausea, or fatigue. Drink plenty of water, take it slow, and follow your guide’s advice to manage altitude effects.
Porters and Guides: The porters and guides play a crucial role in your success. They will set up your camps, prepare meals, and guide you safely along the route. Tips are customary and much appreciated at the end of the trek.
Summit Certificate: Upon successfully completing the trek, you’ll receive a summit certificate as a testament to your achievement—a memory you’ll carry with you forever!
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