Kilimanjaro Marathon 2026: 7-Day Machame Route Joining Group

After arriving in Moshi, you will be transferred to Machame Gate for registration with Kilimanjaro National Park. After a safety briefing, the trek begins through dense rainforest, characterized by giant ferns, moss-covered trees, and abundant birdlife. The trail is well-marked but can be muddy in places. The hike is a gentle introduction to altitude and terrain, allowing your body to begin acclimatizing.

• Hiking time: 5–7 hours
• Elevation gain: ~1,200 m
• Accommodation: Machame Camp (tented camp with dining tent)
• Highlights: Tropical rainforest, endemic birds, first views of Kibo Peak

The trail exits the rainforest into heath and moorland, with giant lobelias and grounds covered in moss. You cross streams and small ridges, gradually climbing onto the Shira Plateau, an expansive high-altitude desert. This plateau is a key acclimatization point, and the wide-open landscapes provide breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks.

• Hiking time: 4–6 hours
• Accommodation: Shira Camp (tents)
• Elevation gain: ~840 m
• Highlights: Shira Plateau, panoramic views, alpine vegetation

Today focuses on acclimatization. Hike up to Lava Tower for lunch, gaining exposure to higher altitude before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is vital for reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Terrain changes from desert-like slopes to rocky sections as you approach Lava Tower.

• Hiking time: 6–8 hours
• Elevation gain: +790 m to Lava Tower, -670 m to Barranco Camp
• Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tents)
• Highlights: Acclimatization hike, dramatic views, first high-altitude desert environment

The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, a short but steep rock scramble with handholds and foot placements. This climb is exhilarating and provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. After descending the wall, the trail winds through small valleys to Karanga Camp, the last stop before the summit push.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours
• Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tents)
• Highlights: Barranco Wall scramble, moorland scenery, close-up views of glaciers

The trail ascends steadily toward Barafu Camp, the base for the summit attempt. The landscape is now barren alpine desert, with little vegetation and striking volcanic rock formations. Afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the midnight summit push. Guides provide a briefing on summit strategy, pacing, and safety.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours
• Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tents)
• Highlights: Alpine desert, striking volcanic landscapes, early summit preparation

Summit night begins around midnight. Hike in the dark with headlamps through scree and rocky paths toward Stella Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Witness the sunrise over the glaciers and plains below, an unforgettable experience. After summit celebration and photos, descend back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue descending to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

• Hiking time: 10–14 hours (summit day)
• Highlights: Sunrise at Uhuru Peak, glaciers, crater rim, achievement of Africa’s highest point

The final day is a descent through rainforest back to Mweka Gate. Enjoy the lush environment, abundant birdlife, and reflections on the climb. At the gate, receive your official summit certificate, then transfer back to Moshi for rest, celebration, and optional sightseeing.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours
• Highlights: Rainforest descent, summit certificate, reflection on journey