6-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route Hike with Uhuru Peak Summit

From Machame Park Gate, gently ascend through primitive montane forest carpeted with unique lizzies, begonias, and ferns. Reach the first camp among the giant heather at an altitude of 3,000 m. The active altitude gain is 1,200 m, with 5 to 6 hours of walking.

Leave the giant heather behind and hike through the beautiful moorlands to camp near Shira Cave at 3,840 m. Herds of elk are found here, and occasionally lions can also be seen. There are fascinating geological features in the ancient crater, which can be explored on an optional half-hour afternoon hike. The elevation gain is 840 m, with 4 to 5 hours of walking.

From Shira, ascend toward the main Kibo Peak, with the western glaciers clearly visible across the rugged high-altitude desert of volcanic rock and boulders. Passing below the towering Western Breach, descend into the sheltered Barranco Valley to camp at 3,950 m. This day involves 6 to 7 hours of walking, with a net altitude gain of only 110 m, though climbing higher and lower helps with acclimatization.

Climb the steep Barranco Wall, which includes some straightforward stretches, and descend into the Karanga Valley, where you will rest for lunch. After lunch, continue to Barafu Hut at 4,600 m, completing a total of 7 to 8 hours of walking and a climb of 650 m. From the campsite, enjoy great views of Mawenzi Peak after a long day of hiking, and take time to fully relax in preparation for the challenging early morning ascent to the summit the next day.

Start at 1 a.m. for the steep and freezing ascent. This is inevitable on any route, but the aim is to pass Gillman Point and reach Stella Point on the crater rim at sunrise. After another 40 minutes, arrive at the highest point on the continent, Kibo at 5900 m, usually under the hot sun. Then return by descending to the Mweka route. The ascent is 1,300 m and takes about 7 hours to the top; the descent is 2,600 m and takes 6 to 7 hours to Mweka Campsite at 3,400 m, above Mweka Gate. It is a long and hard day, but you will feel absolutely blessed to have done it.

From Mweka Campsite, it takes 4 to 5 hours to hike through the forest to Mweka Gate, depending on individual ability, where you will receive your certificate and meet the car. Return to Arusha at night.