Elevation: 5,400 ft (1640 m) to 9,400 ft (2850 m)

Distance:  7 miles / 11 km  

Approx:  5-7 hours

Hike Through: Rainforest to Mountain Forest

Trek begins from Machame Gate and passes through a lush rainforest. It may be a little muddy and trekkers should prepare for rain, as well. Climbers will overnight at Machame Camp.

Elevation: 9,400 ft (2850 m) to 12,500 ft (3810 m)

Distance: 3 miles / 5 km    

Approx: 4-6 hours

Hike Through: Mountain Forest to Moorland

The climate will begin to change, shifting to rocky ridges and heather-covered moors. Climbers have the option to add a short hike to Shira Caves. There will be a stunning view of nearby Mount Meru on this day.

Elevation: 12,500 ft (3810 m) to 13,000 ft (3976 m)

Distance: 6 miles / 10 km 

Approx: 6-8 hours

Hike Through: Alpine Desert

Climbers will first trek to Lava Tower, reaching an elevation of 15,190 ft (4630 m), then trek down to overnight at Barranco Camp. The trail passes along Arrow Glacier. This day follows good acclimatization mandates of “climb high, sleep low”, trekkers climb to a high elevation but overnight at a relatively lower altitude.

Elevation: 13,000 ft (3976 m) to 15,300 ft (4673 m)

Distance: 5 miles / 9km   

Approx: 8-10 hours

Hike Through: Alpine Desert

Teams will climb the impressive Barranco Wall in the morning (an experience many report was a highlight of the trek) and continue to Karanga Valley, then arrive at Barafu Camp. Rest as much as possible this afternoon and evening, as the summit attempt begins around midnight.

Elevation: 15,300 ft (4673 m) to 19,345 ft (5895 m) then down to 10,000 ft (3068 m)

Distance: 3 miles / 5 km ascent and 7 miles /12 km descent

Approx: 7-9 hours ascent / 4-5 hours descent

Hike Through: Arctic Zone, down to Alpine Desert

Teams begin the final ascent around midnight, departing Barafu camp and heading first toward Stella Point (18,600 ft). While this portion of the trek is often mentally challenging due to climbing in the dark, the reward is the most incredible sunrise on the roof of Africa. After a short rest, continue (approx 1 hr) to the final summit and Kilimanjaro’s highest point: Uhuru Peak (19,345 ft).

After, teams will begin the descent, with a meal and rest at Barafu Camp. Climbers will overnight at Mweka Camp (10,000 ft).

Elevation: 10,000 ft (3068 m) to 5,400 ft (1640 m)

Distance: 6 miles / 10 km  

Approx: 3-4 hours

Hike Through: Moorland and Rainforest

This is the final day of trekking. Climbers continue descending from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. While some Kilimanjaro routes have the same trail for ascent and descent, Machame Route allows trekkers to experience more of the mountain with a different descending route, which also passes through a rainforest.

Upon reaching the gate, trekkers will be awarded certificates, and your team will be met by a guide and transported to your accommodation in either Moshi or Arusha.
Congratulations! You did it!