8 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Trekking

Climb Kilimanjaro via the 8-Day Machame Route

8 Days | Best for Acclimatization | Unforgettable Summit Experience

The 8-Day Machame Route offers the most comfortable and scenic way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This extended version includes two acclimatization days — giving your body more time to adjust and significantly increasing your chances of a successful summit.

With Origin Ventures and Safaris, you’ll be led by professional mountain guides and enjoy personalized service, quality mountain meals, and an epic journey through rainforest, alpine meadows, volcanic landscapes, and glaciers all the way to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Rainforest on Machame Route
Climbers on Barranco Wall
Sunrise at Uhuru Peak

Itinerary Overview – 8 Days Machame Route

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Machame Gate – Machame Camp (3,010m)
After park registration at Machame Gate, hike through rainforest trails to Machame Camp. Expect lush vegetation and potential wildlife sightings.

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840m)
A steep climb through moorland. Reach the Shira Plateau with stunning views across the Shira Ridge and Kibo Peak.

Day 3: Shira Camp – Shira 2 Camp (3,900m)
An easy day to help with acclimatization. Explore Shira Plateau and rest at Shira 2 Camp. Optional short hikes available.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp. You’ll experience the “climb high, sleep low” technique.

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Conquer the famous Barranco Wall, then hike across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp. A shorter day for rest and acclimatization.

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
A steady climb across a barren alpine desert landscape to Barafu. Early dinner and rest before your midnight summit push.

Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Summit day! Begin before midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise and take in views from the highest point in Africa. Descend to Mweka Camp for the night.

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha
Final descent through rainforest. After checking out at the gate, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel for a hot shower and celebration.

Why Choose the 8-Day Machame Route?

  • ✔️ Best acclimatization profile for summit success
  • ✔️ Stunning scenery through 5 climate zones
  • ✔️ Explore the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall
  • ✔️ Fewer physical demands each day compared to shorter routes
  • ✔️ Ideal for those who want a safer, more enjoyable experience

Let Origin Ventures and Safaris guide you on a safe, scenic, and successful journey to the Roof of Africa. The 8-day Machame Route is the perfect option for trekkers seeking both adventure and optimal acclimatization.

8 Days Machame Route Itinerary

The 8-Day Machame Route offers a relaxed pace with extra acclimatization days to help your body adjust better to altitude. Trek through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers — using the “climb high, sleep low” strategy for improved summit success and safety.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) – Machame Camp (3,010m)

After registration at Machame Gate, begin your trek through lush rainforest on a well-maintained trail. You may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds before arriving at Machame Camp.

Hiking time: 5–7 hours   |   Habitat: Rainforest

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840m)

Ascend through moorland and heather. The forest thins as you gain elevation, revealing expansive views. Arrive at Shira Camp on a high plateau with distant views of Kibo Peak.

Hiking time: 4–6 hours   |   Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,950m)

Today is crucial for acclimatization. Climb to Lava Tower for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” approach improves your altitude adaptation.

Hiking time: 6–8 hours   |   Habitat: Alpine desert to moorland

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Barranco Wall Exploration & Rest Day

Spend the day exploring the iconic Barranco Wall at a relaxed pace or take a rest day to acclimatize and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Hiking time: 2–3 hours (optional)   |   Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995m)

Continue trekking over ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, preparing for the upcoming climb.

Hiking time: 4–5 hours   |   Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Karanga Camp

Rest and acclimatize at Karanga Camp. Optional short hikes or simply relax to help your body adapt to the altitude.

Hiking time: 2–3 hours (optional)   |   Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 7: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673m)

A short, steep ascent takes you to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. After an early dinner and briefing, rest and prepare for the midnight climb.

Hiking time: 3–4 hours   |   Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 8: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Summit day! Depart around midnight, trekking past Stella Point to reach Uhuru Peak for a breathtaking sunrise. After celebrating, descend to Barafu for rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.

Hiking time: 12–14 hours total   |   Habitat: Arctic summit to rainforest

Included in the Trekking Package

  • Transport from Moshi/Arusha to Machame Gate and return
  • Experienced, professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks
  • National Park fees, camping accommodation, and rescue fees
  • Three nutritious meals per day during the trek
  • Safe drinking water throughout the expedition
  • Oxygen cylinder and first aid kit for emergencies
  • Summit certificate upon successful completion

Excluded from the Trek

  • Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (recommended)
  • Travel insurance and international flights
  • Personal trekking gear (available for rent upon request)
  • Visa fees and required vaccinations
  • Accommodation in Moshi/Arusha before and after the trek (can be arranged upon request)

Book your Tour


Thank You for Choosing Origin Ventures and Safaris!

We appreciate your trust in us as your Kilimanjaro trekking partner. Our expert guides and dedicated team are here to ensure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime!

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