Tarakea Motamburu

7 DAYS MT. KILIMANJARO HIKING VIA MACHAME ROUTE

The 7-Day Mt. Kilimanjaro hiking via the Machame Route offers an immersive trekking experience, featuring diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. This extended itinerary allows for optimal acclimatization, significantly enhancing climbers' chances of successfully summiting Uhuru Peak while enjoying the stunning vistas along the way.

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

• Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Elevation: 1,800 m (5,900 ft) to 2,835 m (9,300 ft)
• Duration: Approximately 5-7 hours
Your journey begins at Machame Gate, where you will register and prepare for the trek. The trail leads through a lush rainforest, characterized by towering trees and vibrant flora. As you hike, look out for wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species. The terrain is moderately steep but manageable, offering a perfect introduction to your adventure. After a rewarding day, you will arrive at Machame Camp, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

• Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
• Elevation: 2,835 m (9,300 ft) to 3,750 m (12,300 ft)
• Duration: Approximately 4-6 hours
Today’s trek features a gradual ascent as you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. The stunning views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes will motivate you as you hike. The unique plant life, such as giant lobelias and senecios, adds to the beauty of the hike. Arriving at Shira Camp, located on a plateau, you can enjoy panoramic views of the summit and explore the Shira Plateau.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Elevation:
o Start at 3,750 m (12,300 ft)
o Ascend to 4,600 m (15,091 ft) at Lava Tower
o Descend to 3,960 m (12,995 ft) at Barranco Camp
• Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours
This day involves a significant elevation gain as you hike to Lava Tower, a popular acclimatization point. The rocky landscape offers a unique contrast to the previous days' lush greenery. After lunch at Lava Tower, you will begin your descent into the Barranco Valley, where you’ll set up camp at Barranco Camp. The stunning views of the Barranco Wall provide an impressive backdrop for your evening.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
• Elevation:
o Start at 3,960 m (12,995 ft)
o Ascend to 4,035 m (13,200 ft)
• Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
Today begins with the ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep climb that rewards you with breathtaking views. The climb is challenging but manageable, and once at the top, the trail levels out, allowing you to catch your breath. Afterward, you’ll descend slightly into the Karanga Valley, where you will set up camp at Karanga Camp. This shorter day allows for acclimatization while preparing for the next leg of the journey.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Elevation:
o Start at 4,035 m (13,200 ft)
o Ascend to 4,673 m (15,325 ft)
• Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
The trek today takes you through the alpine desert, characterized by sparse vegetation and dramatic scenery. As you ascend to Barafu Camp, you will enjoy views of the glaciers on the summit. Upon reaching camp, you’ll have time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the summit push. Dinner will be served early to ensure you get sufficient rest before the long ascent.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and Descend to Mweka Camp

• Distance:
o Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak: 5.5 km (3.4 miles)
o Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Elevation:
o Ascend from 4,673 m (15,325 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) at Uhuru Peak
o Descend to Mweka Camp at 3,068 m (10,062 ft)
• Duration:
o Ascent: Approximately 6-8 hours
o Descent: Approximately 7-8 hours
You will begin your ascent around midnight, navigating the steep, rocky path to Uhuru Peak. Reaching the summit at sunrise is one of the most exhilarating experiences of the trek. After celebrating your accomplishment and taking photos, you will start your descent back to Mweka Camp. The trail will take you back through the alpine desert and into the rainforest, allowing you to enjoy the diverse ecosystems once more.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Elevation: Start at 3,068 m (10,062 ft) and descend to 1,640 m (5,380 ft)
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
On the final day, you will trek from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, marking the end of your trek. The descent through the rainforest is a wonderful way to reflect on your adventure and appreciate the lush surroundings. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll complete your trek with a celebratory certificate presentation, commemorating your successful ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Price includes:

• Trekking tour according to the itinerary
• Accommodation in tents and hotels as indicated in the itinerary
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Personal porter
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Drinking Water
• Transfers as indicated in the itinerary
• Camping equipment – tents, sleeping mattress and camping furniture
• National park fees
• Rescue fees

Price excludes:

• Flights (international and domestic)
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Beverages other than water (alcohol and soft drinks)
• Visa, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance
• Sleeping bag (can be rented, please ask us at the time of the booking)

FAQs

1. What is the Machame Route?
The Machame Route, often called the "Whiskey" route, is a popular and scenic path to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It features diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. The 7-day trek allows for better acclimatization and a more enjoyable experience for climbers.

2. What are the accommodations like?
Accommodations on the Machame Route are typically camping. Trekkers sleep in tents at designated campsites, with porters setting up and taking down the camps. While tents provide shelter, climbers should expect basic amenities and shared facilities at each campsite.

3. How can I prepare for altitude sickness?
To prepare for altitude sickness on the Machame Route:

Acclimatization: Allow your body to adjust by following the itinerary and taking it slow.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to stay hydrated.
Fitness: Engage in aerobic exercises and hiking prior to the trip to build endurance.
Awareness: Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and be ready to descend if they worsen.

4. What wildlife might I encounter along the Machame Route?
The Machame Route passes through diverse ecosystems, offering chances to see various wildlife. Common sightings include blue monkeys, colorful birds, and unique plants. While larger animals are rare on the trekking paths, the variety of flora and fauna adds to the experience.

5. What is the best time to climb the Machame Route?
The best times to climb the Machame Route are during the dry seasons: January to March and June to October. These months usually offer more stable weather, clearer skies, and less rainfall, enhancing the overall trekking experience. Climbers should still be prepared for temperature fluctuations.

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