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).
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
Continue trekking over ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, preparing for the upcoming climb.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert
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
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
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
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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