A challenging and rewarding route through rainforest, alpine desert and high-altitude terrain, featuring the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall and the ultimate ascent to Uhuru Peak.
07 DAYS
47.5 KM ↑
5,895 M
CHALLENGING
Southern entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park.
6 nights on Mount Kilimanjaro.
20 KM descending.
From Machame Gate toward the summit.
Uhuru Peak — the Roof of Africa.
Demanding terrain with gradual ascent and acclimatization.
Designed for adventurous, well-prepared trekkers.
Two-person tents, mattresses and private portable toilets.
* ALL ESTIMATED PRICES ARE PER PERSON, BASED ON A 2 PERSON TREK.
Including acclimatization hikes and distinctive key highlights such as the impressive Lava Tower, scenic Shira Plateau and challenging Barranco Wall, the Machame Route is one of the most popular and rewarding routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Begin the expedition from the southern entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park.
Ascend through changing terrain toward the spectacular Shira Plateau.
Reach 4,600 m before descending toward Barranco Camp, using the climb-high-sleep-low principle for acclimatization.
One of the route's defining challenges before continuing toward Karanga Camp.
High-altitude summit camp where you prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
5,756 m → 5,895 m. The final ascent to the Roof of Africa.
These itineraries are a starting point to help you plan your Kilimanjaro adventure. Arena Africa Safaris specializes in creating tailor-made tours and personalized adventures fully customized around your personal preferences.
After breakfast, your mountain crew will drive you to Machame Gate at 1,800 m. After registering and obtaining permits, begin your trek toward Machame Camp at 2,835 m.
The route passes through lush rainforest, where rain is possible and wildlife may be encountered. Dinner and an overnight stay await at Machame Camp.
1,800 → 2,835 M
11 KM
5–6 HRS
Start with breakfast at Machame Camp before gradually ascending toward Shira Cave Camp at 3,750 m.
As the rainforest disappears, the spectacular Shira Plateau opens up, providing the first panoramic views of the mountain.
2,835 → 3,750 M
5 KM
4–5 HRS
In the afternoon, take a short acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower Camp, gaining more than 300 metres before returning to Shira Cave Camp for dinner and overnight rest.
3,750 → 4,120 → 3,750 M
2 KM
1–2 HRS
Continue from Shira Cave Camp toward Lava Tower at 4,600 m, one of the defining highlights of the Machame Route.
Spend 1–2 hours at Lava Tower to acclimatize while enjoying lunch before descending toward Barranco Camp at 3,900 m.
3,750 → 4,600 → 3,900 M
10 KM
6–8 HRS
After an early breakfast, begin the climb of the famous Barranco Wall at 4,202 m.
After reaching the top, take photographs with the majestic Kibo volcano behind you before descending toward Karanga Camp at 3,995 m for lunch.
3,900 → 4,202 → 3,995 M
6 KM
4–5 HRS
Take a short acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp at 4,270 m before descending back to Karanga Camp for dinner and overnight rest.
3,995 → 4,270 → 3,995 M
2.5 KM
1–2 HRS
After breakfast, continue from Karanga Camp at 3,995 m toward Barafu Summit Camp at 4,673 m.
Known for chilly winds and freezing temperatures, Barafu marks the high-altitude staging point before the summit attempt.
3,995 → 4,673 M
4 KM
4–5 HRS
Take another short acclimatization hike toward Kosovo Summit Camp at 4,800 m before returning to Barafu Camp. Spend the evening resting in preparation for the summit attempt at night.
4,673 → 4,800 → 4,673 M
2 KM
1–2 HRS
5,895 METRES. ROOF OF AFRICA
Depart from Barafu Camp at approximately midnight and begin the summit push toward Uhuru Peak, passing Stella Point at 5,756 m along the way.
The final stretch can be demanding due to the extreme altitude, but the reward is reaching the highest point in Africa and witnessing sunrise from the summit.
4,673 → 5,756 → 5,895 M
5 KM
6–7 HRS
After celebrating your achievement and taking a well-deserved rest, begin descending toward Barafu Camp before continuing to Mweka Camp at 3,100 m.
The descent is faster but can be challenging because of the steep trail, particularly after the long morning spent trekking toward the summit.
5,895 → 4,673 → 3,100 M
10 KM
6–7 HRS
* 2 HOURS OF REST AT BARAFU CAMP EXCLUDED.
Upon reaching Mweka Gate at 1,640 m, celebrate your incredible achievement of reaching Mount Kilimanjaro's summit and receive your official certificates.
Transfer back to your hotel in Arusha for a relaxing shower, dinner and overnight stay.
3,100 → 1,640 M
10 KM
3–4 HRS
The thundering herds of the plains, the frozen snow-lines of the peaks, and the pristine quiet of hidden archipelagos are ready.
Don't leave your definitive African odyssey to chance, co-design it alongside the architects at Arena Africa Safaris.