Ascend to the summit of Africa’s highest peak with Facile Safaris on an 8-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame Route, a scenic and rewarding trek designed for adventurers seeking a challenging yet achievable ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Known for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to the the rocky jagged peaks of the mountain, this tour offers a 7-day climb with an extra acclimatization day to enhance summit success, starting with a cultural introduction in Moshi. With expert guides, porters, and cooks, safe tented camps, and pre-climb preparation, Kilimanjaro Machame Route climbs by Facile Safaris deliver an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s iconic mountain, blending adventure, teamwork, and breathtaking views.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi – Kilimanjaro Gateway
Your journey begins as you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a Facile Safaris representative welcomes you and transfers you to the comfortable Weru Weru River Lodge in Moshi, a mid-range lodge with mountain views. After settling in, join a pre-climb briefing with your guide, covering gear, safety, and the Machame Route’s itinerary, followed by a short walk through Moshi’s markets to experience local life. Enjoy a hearty dinner at the lodge, featuring Tanzanian dishes like ugali and grilled chicken, resting up for the climb ahead.
Day 2: Moshi to Machame Gate to Machame Camp
After breakfast, travel by private vehicle to Machame Gate (1,800m), the starting point of your Kilimanjaro climb. Begin trekking through lush rainforest, covering 11km (6-7 hours) to Machame Camp (3,000m), spotting colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife like Hartlaub’s turaco. Your guide sets a steady “pole pole” (slowly) pace to aid acclimatization, while porters carry gear. Arrive at camp for a hot dinner prepared by the crew, featuring soup and pasta, camping under the forest canopy with stars peeking through.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp
Rise early for breakfast and trek 5km (4-6 hours) from Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp (3,750m), ascending through heath and moorland with views of Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau. The shorter day helps acclimatization, with your guide pointing out endemic plants like giant lobelias. Navigate rocky paths, feeling the altitude, and arrive at camp by midday. Enjoy a warm lunch and rest, with an optional acclimatization walk to Shira Cave. Savor a dinner of Tanzanian stews, camping on the open plateau under a vast sky.
Day 4: Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Trek 10km (6-8 hours) from Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,950m), passing through the alpine desert to Lava Tower (4,600m) for critical acclimatization before descending to camp. The high-altitude day challenges endurance, with your guide monitoring for altitude symptoms and offering encouragement. Marvel at the dramatic Barranco Wall ahead and spot groundsel trees. Arrive at Barranco Camp for a hot lunch, rest, and a dinner of rice and grilled meats, camping near the wall’s striking cliffs.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, tackle the Barranco Wall, a 4km (4-5 hour) trek (non-technical scramble) to Karanga Camp (3,995m), enjoying panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s southern glaciers. The short day aids acclimatization, with your guide leading through rocky terrain and sharing tips for the summit push. Arrive at camp by midday for a warm lunch and time to relax or take an acclimatization hike. Enjoy a dinner of pasta and vegetable stew, camping in the serene Karanga Valley with the summit in sight.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Trek 4km (3-4 hours) from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m), the base for your summit attempt, crossing barren alpine desert with views of Mawenzi Peak. The short ascent preserves energy, with your guide emphasizing hydration and rest. Arrive at camp by midday, enjoying a hot lunch and time to prepare gear for the midnight summit push. Take an early dinner of high-energy foods like rice and lentils, resting in tents as excitement builds for the climb to Uhuru Peak.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin the summit ascent at midnight, trekking 5km (6-8 hours) from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Kilimanjaro’s highest point, through steep scree and glacial paths to Stella Point (5,756m) for sunrise views. Reach the summit for photos and breathtaking vistas, guided by your team’s support. Descend 12km (5-7 hours) to Mweka Camp (3,100m) via Barafu, a long but rewarding day. Enjoy a celebratory dinner of Tanzanian specialties, camping in the rainforest, exhausted yet triumphant.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Moshi – Farewell to Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, trek 10km (3-4 hours) from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m), descending through lush rainforest, where your guide shares stories of Kilimanjaro’s ecology. Receive your summit certificate at the gate, celebrating your achievement. Travel back to Weru Weru River Lodge in Moshi for a farewell lunch, savoring Tanzanian dishes like pilau, reflecting on your climb. A Facile Safaris representative transfers you to Kilimanjaro International Airport, leaving you with memories of Kilimanjaro’s majesty, courtesy of Facile Safaris Tanzania.
Estimated Price for 2 People Sharing
The estimated cost for this 8-day Kilimanjaro climb with Facile Safaris is $4,800 for two people sharing, based on double occupancy. This includes mid-range accommodations (Weru Weru River Lodge), tented camps on the mountain, all meals during the climb, daily breakfast and select meals in Moshi, ground transfers, park fees, professional guides, porters, cooks, camping equipment, and summit certificate. Prices exclude international flights, personal expenses, climbing gear (available for rent), and optional tips for the crew. Rates are subject to availability and may vary by season, with January–March and June–October ideal for climbing; contact Facile Safaris for a tailored quote.
