7-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb to Uhuru Peak

• Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft

• Hiking Time: 5 to 7 hours

• Distance: 11 km | 7 miles

• Habitat: Rain Forest

• Overview: After a 50-minute drive from Moshi through the village of Machame, begin the trek at Machame Gate. The trail winds through dense rain forest before ascending along a ridge to reach Machame Camp.

• Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft

• Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours

• Distance: 5 km | 3 miles

• Habitat: Heathland

• Overview: Depart the rain forest and ascend a steep, rocky ridge. As the elevation increases, the landscape transitions to heather and open moorlands. Cross a broad river gorge before arriving at Shira 2 Camp.

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower

• Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft

• Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours

• Distance: 7 km | 4 miles

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

• Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft

• Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours

• Distance: 3 km | 2 miles

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Overview: Climb eastward through ridges and head toward the imposing Lava Tower. After reaching the tower, descend through the beautiful Senecio Forest to reach Barranco Camp. Though the day ends at a similar altitude to where it began, the time spent at higher elevation aids acclimatization.

• Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft

• Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours

• Distance: 5 km | 3 miles

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Overview: Descend into a ravine, then climb the steep but non-technical Barranco Wall. After the ascent, cross multiple ridges and valleys before a steep final climb into Karanga Camp. This shorter day helps with acclimatization.

• Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft

• Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours

• Distance: 4 km | 2 miles

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Overview: Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp, joining the Mweka route along the way. The Southern Circuit is completed, offering exceptional views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. Arrive early to rest and prepare for the summit push.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak

• Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft

• Hiking Time: 7 to 8 hours

• Distance: 5 km | 3 miles

• Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft

• Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours

• Distance: 12 km | 7 miles

• Habitat: Rain Forest

• Overview: Begin the summit attempt around midnight. Navigate the cold, wind, and altitude to reach Stella Point and witness a breathtaking sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Barafu for lunch, then continue to Mweka Camp for the night.

• Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

• Hiking Time: 3 to 4 hours

• Distance: 10 km | 6 miles

• Habitat: Rain Forest

• Overview: Complete the final descent through lush rain forest. Conditions may be wet and muddy, so caution is necessary. After reaching Mweka Gate and receiving summit certificates, hike one more hour to Mweka Village for transport back to the hotel in Moshi.