8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via Machame Route
The Machame route is the most popular way to climb Kilimanjaro. This 8-day version adds an extra acclimatisation day on the Shira Plateau, significantly improving summit success rates.
Route Plan
Day-by-Day Journey
1
1
Day 1
Day 1
Arrive Moshi, transfer to Machame Gate
Arrive in Moshi. Final gear check and briefing at your hotel. Afternoon drive to Machame Gate and begin the climb through the rainforest.
2
2
Day 2
Day 2
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Climb from the forest zone through the moorland into the Shira Plateau. The vegetation changes dramatically and Kilimanjaro's summit becomes visible for the first time.
3
3
Day 3
Day 3
Shira Camp to Lava Tower and back to Barranco
Classic acclimatisation day: climb high, sleep low. Trek up to Lava Tower at 4,600m, then descend to Barranco Camp at 3,976m. This is key for acclimatisation.
4
4
Day 4
Day 4
Barranco to Karanga Camp
The day starts with the famous Barranco Wall — a steep but non-technical scramble. Good views of the Western Breach after the climb.
5
5
Day 5
Day 5
Karanga to Base Camp
Shorter day to allow rest before summit night. Arrive at Base Camp (Barafu) in early afternoon. Rest, eat, sleep early.
6
6
Day 6
Day 6
Summit Night and descent to Mweka Camp
Midnight start for the summit push. Reach Stella Point on the crater rim at sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Descend all the way to Mweka Camp.
7
7
Day 7
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Moshi
Final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Certificates are awarded at the gate. Transfer to Moshi for showers and celebration dinner.
8
8
Day 8
Day 8
Departure from Moshi
Rest day in Moshi. Optional visit to Moshi market or local coffee farm. Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for departure.
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