Base -> Machame Camp Trek

Today's hike starts out in the rainforest as you wind your way up the ridge. 

You'll carry your day bag with water, rain gear, snacks and any essentials while the porters run ahead to camp with our overnight gear. 

The final destination for today is the Machame camp! 

Elevation: 6,000 ft to 9,950 ft 

Distance: 7 mi 

Hiking Time: 6-7 hrs

 Habitat: Montane Forest

Today you'll leave the glades of the rainforest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the valley along a steep rocky ridge. 

You'll have beautiful views of Mount Meru as we ascend higher and higher.

All meals will be provided on the trail and at the campsite by our amazing team of porters. 

Elevation: 9,950 ft to 12,600 ft 

Distance: 3 mi 

Walking Time: 5-6 hrs 

 Habitat: Moorland

Today we ascend to the beautiful Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elevation 15,250 ft). Here we will have lunch and acclimatize before heading back down to a lower elevation campsite, Barranco Camp. 

Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatisation and will help your body prepare for summiting. 

In the evening, we'll stargaze and enjoy hot cocoa at camp. 

Elevation: 12,600 ft to 13,000 ft

 Distance: 6 mi 

Walking Time: 6 hrs 

Habitat: Semi-desert

Today we do what the guides call "Monkey Business" and climb over the fun but challenging Barranco Wall!  There are many rocks to be scaled and ledges to scramble along. 

 Marvel at the stunning views and sweeping vistas as you continue to acclimatize to the elevation! 

Elevation: 13,000 ft to 13,250 ft

 Distance: 3 mi 

Climbing Time: 4-5 hrs 

Habitat: Alpine Desert

You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. 

Here you'll make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. 

Elevation: 13,250 ft to 15,350 ft 

Distance: 2 mi 

Climbing Time: 4 hrs 

Habitat: Alpine Desert

SUMMIT DAY!! Get ready, it won't be easy but it will be worth it.  
(You can watch the highlights from last year here.)

Around midnight, we will meet to begin ascending in the dark, under the light of the stars. 

You will hear our guides say over and over again, "pole, pole." Meaning "slowly, slowly." 

One foot at a time, we will slowly conquer the mountain. At such high elevation, it's impossible to move quickly. 

At Stella Point you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. 

From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1 hour ascent to the summit. 

Once at Uhuru Peak you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa! 

Snap some photos, celebrate with the group, and bask in the accomplishment you have just achieved. 

From the summit you'll begin your descent by continuing straight down to the Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. 

You may want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. You'll arrive at Mweka Camp and enjoy your last evening on the mountain.

Warning: this is a long and difficult day but one you are sure to remember forever! 

 Elevation: 15,350 ft to 19,340 ft, Down to 10,150 ft

 Distance: 3 mi up , 8 mi down 

Hiking Time: 7-8 hrs up, 6 hrs down 

Habitat: Loose rocks and ice-capped summit

Rise and shine for our final breakfast at camp! 

Load up on food & coffee before we complete the descent.  At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy.  

When we arrive back at the Mweka gate, we will be taken back to our hotel in Moshi for our farewell dinner to celebrate this great accomplishment! 

Elevation: 10,150 ft to 5,500 ft 

Distance: 6 mi 

Hiking Time: 5hrs 

Habitat: Forest

Say goodbye to your fellow travelers for now! 

Your airport transfer is included.