- Arusha, Tanzania
- info@tobikoadventures.com
Trek Kilimanjaro via the 8-day Machame Route—Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular trail. This full itinerary offers great acclimatization, diverse terrain, and high summit success.
The Machame Route is Kilimanjaro’s most dramatic and diverse trekking trail — offering sweeping views, changing ecological zones, and an excellent summit success rate. Known as the “Whiskey Route” for its adventurous reputation, this 8-day itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization, following a tried-and-true “climb high, sleep low” strategy that prepares you for the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Trek through moss-draped rainforests, cross expansive moorlands, scale volcanic ridges, and navigate icy alpine deserts. With expert guides and a supportive mountain crew, this journey to the highest point in Africa is not just a climb — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“Kilimanjaro isn’t just a climb—it’s a journey through every layer of Earth, ending at the stars.”
Welcome to Kilimanjaro
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing, gear check, and last-minute preparation.
Overnight at hotel in Moshi or Arusha (accommodation not included in trek cost)
Into the Rainforest
Start Elevation: 1,800m
End Elevation: 2,850m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Zone: Montane Forest
Your adventure begins at Machame Gate after a scenic drive from town. The trail winds through lush rainforest filled with birds, butterflies, and playful monkeys. As you gain elevation, the air cools and your camp appears beneath towering trees.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner
Across the Shira Plateau
Start Elevation: 2,850m
End Elevation: 3,850m
Distance: 16 km
Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
Zone: Moorland
Today is a long but rewarding trek across the ancient Shira Plateau, a high-altitude volcanic plain offering vast panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Transition into heath and moorland vegetation before reaching camp on the eastern edge of the plateau.
Accommodation: Shira II Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Acclimatization Day – Climb High, Sleep Low
Start Elevation: 3,850m
Highest Point: 4,600m
End Elevation: 3,950m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
A key acclimatization day, you ascend to the imposing Lava Tower before descending to sleep at the lower Barranco Camp. This strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude and boosts your chances of reaching the summit.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Conquer the Barranco Wall
Start Elevation: 3,950m
End Elevation: 3,995m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
The day begins with a scramble up the famed Barranco Wall — a steep but non-technical climb offering thrilling views. The trail then undulates across ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize.
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Summit Base Camp
Start Elevation: 3,995m
End Elevation: 4,673m
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
A shorter day that allows for rest and preparation before your midnight summit push. Arrive at Barafu Camp in the early afternoon, eat an early dinner, and get some sleep — your summit attempt begins before dawn.
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The Roof of Africa
Start Elevation: 4,673m
Uhuru Peak: 5,895m
End Elevation: 3,100m
Distance: 5 km ascent + 12 km descent
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Zone: Arctic to Rainforest
Start under the stars around midnight and slowly ascend switchbacks through scree and ice. Reach Stella Point at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak — the highest point on the continent. After celebrating and taking in the views, begin the long descent to Mweka Camp.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Congratulations, You Made It!
Start Elevation: 3,100m
End Elevation: 1,650m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Montane Forest
Enjoy your final morning on the mountain with a leisurely descent through rainforest back to Mweka Gate. After receiving your summit certificate, transfer to Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned celebration.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready to explore Tanzania’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes? Let Tobiko Adventure craft your perfect journey. Book now and let the adventure begin!
