Climbing Kilimanjaro - The Machame Route is an 8-day, 7-night climb of Africa's highest mountain, staying at Machame, Shira, Barranco, Barafu and Mweka camps en route. The Machame Route is a more natural climb in comparison to the Marangu Route, which has been modified to make an easier path. Although more demanding, this is a much quieter and more scenic route which makes climbing Kilimanjaro all the more rewarding. Nights are spent camping in tents, which are carried and pitched by the accompanying porters. Highlights of this route are the Shira Plateau, Barranco wall and the Karanga Valley reaching the summit via Stella Point.
Because this route is more taxing it is recommended that climbers should be physically fit. You will also need to acclimatise. With the additional day on trek there is a good chance of reaching the summit. It will be a tough challenge but we know you have it in you!
- Day 1: Arusha
- Itinerary
On arrival in Kilimanjaro, you will be met and transferred to the Springlands Hotel for the night. In the evening, meet your guide to be briefed on your excursion. There is also the opportunity to hire any equipment you may require on your hike. Relax and complete your final preparations before dinner (not included) at the hotel.
- Day 2: Machame Camp
- Itinerary
You are transferred to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Machame (approx 2hr30min) for the 1st section of the climb. Your hiking adventure begins with a path through the lush rainforest to Machame, about 3,000m above sea level, your first night's camp (6-7hr).
- Day 3: Shira Camp
- Itinerary
After breakfast a shorter day's walk starts with a steep climb up a ridge to reach a small semi-circular cliff known as Picnic Rock, with excellent views of Kibo's glaciated dome. Enjoy the views and scenery whilst you hike to a large gorge, which you cross to reach Shira Camp, close to the Shira Caves, where you overnight. This walk takes about 4-6hr and takes you to a height of 3,800m.
- Day 4: Barranco Camp
- Itinerary
Heading eastwards towards Kibo, you cross a broad valley and continue climbing to a ridge crest. Enjoy the views, take a break, and then cross to scree slopes and a river valley before reaching Kilimanjaro Barranco Campsite. It takes about 5-7hr to reach 3,900m, the height at which you will be sleeping tonight.
- Day 5: Barafu Camp
- Itinerary
The path climbs steeply out of the Barranco Valley and crosses the Karanga River, which is the last water point on this route climbing Kilimanjaro. There is a steep climb over rocky slabs to Barafu Campsite, your overnight camping site, at a height of 4,600m. The campsite has stunning views of the ice fields. Before falling asleep, take a moment to savour the fact that you are nearly there.
- Day 6: Mweka Camp
- Itinerary
You start climbing at about 1am to reach the crater rim in time for sunrise. After taking in the amazing view you then walk to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa: 6-7hr and 5,896m. From here you will descend via Barafu Campsite, through the forest, to Mweka Campsite, at the edge of the Mweka Forest, to stay overnight and relax after a long, but worthwhile climb: 5-7hr and 3,000m.
- Day 7: Arusha
- Itinerary
Descend through the forest to the park gate at Mweka Wildlife College, 4-6hr, were you will be met and transferred to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay at Springlands Hotel. With a feeling of achievement, relax and unwind for the night.
Included in tour:
Transport as detailed
Services of an English speaking driver/guide
Accommodation & meals as detailed
Current park fees & government taxes
Excluded:
International flights
All airport departure taxes
Visas
Driver/guide or local escort gratuities
Telephone bill, laundry & any items of a personal nature
Travel insurance
Equipment & attire for climbing Kilimanjaro
Porter tips
Tour rates. †
| Starting at |
Arusha |
end in |
Arusha |
| |
| From |
To |
PPS |
SS |
| 17 Dec 2007 |
16 Dec 2008 |
|
|
† All prices are accurate but you may find that the final rates in your quotation vary slightly due to room type, seasonality and currency conversion.
Extra tour notes.
The tour operates with a minimum of 2 people. Rates for 1 person available on request.
Tips - whilst discretionary, it is customary to give tips to guides and porters after the climb. Climbers are advised to budget USD60 - USD100 per climber (not per crew) for this purpose
What to Pack: Anorak, mittens, balaclava, snow goggles or ski sunglasses, scarf, 3 pairs warm trousers, sweaters, 6 pairs warm socks, thermal underwear, waterproof layer, sun proof hat, comfortable boots, sun cream, small first-aid kit, knapsack, and water bottle
Transfers to/from Nairobi or Kilimanjaro Airport can be arranged at an extra cost
