Machame Route

The Machame Route is one of the most popular paths to summit Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It offers stunning scenery and a great chance to acclimatize due to its longer trekking duration compared to some other routes. Here’s a basic guide to help you plan your trip along the Machame Route:

Itinerary Overview:
Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
– Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
– Duration: Approximately 5-7 hours
– Highlights: Beautiful rainforest, diverse wildlife, such as monkeys and birds.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
– Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
– Duration: Around 4-6 hours
– Highlights: Ascend to the Shira Plateau with fantastic views of Kilimanjaro.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower, then to Barranco Camp
– Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
– Duration: 7-8 hours
– Highlights: Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
– Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
– Duration: 4-5 hours
– Highlights: Navigate the Barranco Wall; enjoy stunning views.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Base Camp (Barafu Camp)
– Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
– Duration: 4-5 hours
– Highlights: Preparation for summit night; phenomenal panoramic views.

Day 6: Summit Day (Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then back to Mweka Camp)
– Distance: 13 km (8 miles) to summit, then 10 km (6 miles) down
– Duration: 11-15 hours total
– Highlights: Summit at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement!

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
– Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
– Duration: 3-4 hours
– Highlights: End your trek and receive your certificate of achievement.

Accommodations:
– Camping: Most trekkers on the Machame Route opt for guided camping trips, where tents are set up for you.
– Lodges: For a more luxurious option, you may find lodges at the base or in nearby towns.

Tips:
1. Book Early: Secure your permits and guides well in advance, especially during peak seasons (June-October).
2. Physical Preparation: Train for the trek with hiking and endurance workouts.
3. Gear Up: Invest in good quality hiking gear, including boots, layers for cold temperatures, and a reliable sleeping bag.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and bring purification tablets for water sources along the route.