7 Days - Machame Route, Mt Kilimanjaro

Day 01 : Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)

Activities:

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by Arrow Trekking representatives, who will ensure your smooth transfer to a comfortable hotel in Arusha. This day is all about settling in, meeting your guides, and receiving an informative pre-trek briefing. During the briefing, your guides will outline the itinerary, discuss safety protocols, and check your gear to ensure you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and make any last-minute adjustments.

What to Expect:

Rest, recover from travel fatigue, and mentally prepare for the trek.

Meals and Accommodation:

Dinner can be arranged as an add-on, and you’ll stay overnight in a cozy hotel in Arusha.

Day 02 : Machame Camp (3,000m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)

Hiking Time: 4–6 hours | Distance: 5 km (3 miles)

Elevation Gain: 840m (2,755 feet)

Activities:

The trail transitions from the rainforest to moorland, offering a striking contrast in landscapes. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the scenery opens up, providing panoramic views of Mount Meru in the distance and the Shira Plateau ahead.

You’ll encounter unique plant species such as giant groundsels and lobelias, which are only found at high altitudes in East Africa. After a moderate trek, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp, which sits on the Shira Plateau. Here, you’ll be treated to stunning sunsets and a clear view of Kibo Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

What to Expect:

The moorland environment offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment as you ascend further.

Meals and Accommodation:

Full meals provided, with an overnight stay in tents at Shira Camp.

Day 03 : Shira Camp (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)

Hiking Time: 7–8 hours | Distance: 10 km (6 miles)

Elevation Gain: 790m (2,592 feet) | Descent: 680m (2,231 feet)

Activities:

This is an acclimatization day designed to prepare your body for higher altitudes. You’ll trek uphill to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation at 4,630m, where you’ll have lunch and rest briefly. The higher elevation may cause mild altitude symptoms, such as a headache or fatigue, but this is normal and part of the process.

After Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, which is at a lower elevation to help your body adjust. The descent is scenic, with views of the Barranco Wall and the surrounding valleys. The camp itself offers a dramatic backdrop of towering cliffs and glaciers.

What to Expect:

Acclimatization is key on this day. The trek is longer and more challenging, but the descent to Barranco Camp helps reduce altitude symptoms.

Meals and Accommodation:

Full meals provided, with an overnight stay in tents at Barranco Camp.

Day 04 : Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 5 km (3 miles)

Elevation Gain: 85m (279 feet)

Activities:

The day starts with a thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that requires both endurance and balance. Though it may appear intimidating, it’s entirely manageable with the guidance of your expert crew. Once you’ve conquered the wall, the trail becomes less steep as it winds through alpine desert terrain toward Karanga Camp.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes. You’ll arrive at Karanga Camp in the early afternoon, giving you time to rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the days ahead.

What to Expect:

A mix of exhilaration from climbing the Barranco Wall and the serenity of the alpine desert.

Meals and Accommodation:

Full meals provided, with an overnight stay in tents at Karanga Camp.

Day 05 : Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)

Elevation Gain: 605m (1,985 feet)

Activities:

This short but steep trek leads you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The trail winds through a barren and rocky landscape, offering an otherworldly feel. Upon arrival, you’ll set up camp, enjoy an early dinner, and rest.

Your guides will brief you on the summit push, which begins around midnight. You’ll prepare your gear and mentally focus on the most challenging part of the journey.

What to Expect:

Anticipation builds as you approach the summit attempt. Rest is essential.

Meals and Accommodation:

Full meals provided, with an overnight stay in tents at Barafu Camp.

Day 06 : Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,080m)

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours to Uhuru Peak | 6–7 hours descent to Mweka Camp

Total Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)

Activities:

The summit attempt begins at midnight under the stars. Trek through icy switchbacks, with each step bringing you closer to Uhuru Peak. Reaching the summit at sunrise, you’ll celebrate your achievement at the highest point in Africa, 5,895m above sea level.

After taking photos and soaking in the views, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp. The descent is long but rewarding, as you reflect on your incredible accomplishment.

What to Expect:

A physically demanding day but immensely rewarding with the sense of achieving something extraordinary.

Meals and Accommodation:

Full meals provided, with an overnight stay in tents at Mweka Camp.

Day 07 : Mweka Camp (3,080m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Distance: 10 km (6 miles)

Elevation Loss: 1,440m (4,724 feet)

Activities:

The final stretch takes you through the lush montane forest to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate with your team. A vehicle will transfer you back to Arusha for a well-deserved rest or onward travel.

What to Expect:

A triumphant conclusion to an unforgettable journey.

Meals and Accommodation:

Breakfast and lunch provided. Overnight at a hotel in Arusha (optional add-on).