10-Days Kilimanjaro Hiking Safari – Machame Route

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your mountain team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. After check- in, meet your lead mountain guide for a detailed briefing and gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared for the climb.

Overnight: Chanya Lodge 

Meals: Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Machame Gate, the starting point of your trek. Once registered with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities and porters organized, your hike begins through dense montane rainforest, filled with birdsong, moss-draped trees, and occasional monkey sightings.

After about 5–7 hours, you’ll reach Machame Camp, located on the edge of the forest and moorland.

Trekking time: 5–7 hours 

Overnight: Machame Camp 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, the forest thins out as you enter the heather and moorland zone, with stunning views of Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak ahead. The trail ascends steadily, with plenty of opportunities for rest and photography.

By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp, where you’ll enjoy hot drinks, a warm meal, and panoramic views.

Trekking time: 4–6 hours 

Overnight: Shira Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This day is designed to help your body adjust to the altitude. After breakfast, you’ll hike toward Shira Cathedral or other nearby viewpoints for a half-day acclimatization trek, soaking in the incredible high-altitude scenery.

You’ll return to camp for lunch and enjoy a relaxed afternoon as you prepare for the higher elevations ahead.

Trekking time: 3–4 hours (short acclimatization hike) 

Overnight: Shira Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s route follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle. You’ll ascend gradually to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation offering breathtaking views of the summit. After lunch at Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, passing through the surreal Senecio Forest, home to giant groundsels and lobelias.

This day is key for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude more comfortably.

Trekking time: 6–8 hours 

Overnight: Barranco Camp 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

One of the most iconic and exciting days on the Machame Route. After breakfast, you’ll climb the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble that rewards you with sweeping views of the valley and glaciers above.

You’ll then trek along alpine desert terrain toward Karanga Camp, where you’ll spend the afternoon relaxing, hydrating, and preparing for the summit push.

Trekking time: 4–5 hours

Overnight: Karanga Camp 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s hike is a gradual but steady climb through alpine desert to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The camp is set on a rocky ridge with incredible views of Mawenzi Peak and the trail ahead.

After an early dinner, rest well, the summit push begins shortly after midnight.

Trekking time: 3–4 hours 

Overnight: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This is the big day your summit day. Around midnight, with headlamps glowing, you’ll begin your final ascent. The trail is steep but steady, leading you to Stella Point (5,739m) at sunrise. From there, a short final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Standing on the “Roof of Africa” is a moment you’ll never forget, breathtaking 360° views, glaciers, and the golden African sunrise. After celebrating, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for a quick rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.

Trekking time: 12–14 hours (up and down) 

Overnight: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Your final descent takes you back through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where your summit certificates will be waiting for you a symbol of your Kilimanjaro triumph 🏅.

You’ll meet your driver and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for a celebration meal and a well- earned hot shower.

Trekking time: 4–6 hours 

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Depending on your travel plans, you’ll either be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight or continue your adventure with a Tanzania wildlife safari or Zanzibar beach extension.

Meals: Breakfast