Day-by-day itinerary
- Day 1 — Machame Gate to Machame Camp. Trek through lush rainforest.
- Day 2 — Machame Camp to Shira Camp. Leave the forest for heath and moorland with views over the Shira Plateau.
- Day 3 — Shira to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp. Climb to around 4,600 m for acclimatisation, then descend to sleep lower.
- Day 4 — Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp. Scramble up the famous Barranco Wall — exciting but not technical.
- Day 5 — Karanga to Barafu Camp. A short day to rest before the summit night.
- Day 6 — Summit day: Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp. Start around midnight, reach Stella Point at dawn and Uhuru Peak soon after.
- Day 7 — Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. Descend through the forest, collect your certificate and celebrate.
Before and after the climb
We recommend a night in Moshi or Arusha before you start for a briefing and gear check. After the climb, reward yourself with a safari or a few days on Zanzibar. Check our packing list and route comparison to prepare.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Machame Route hard?
It's a challenging trek because of the altitude and the long summit night, but it requires no technical climbing. Good fitness and a steady pace are what matter.
Is 7 days better than 6 days on Machame?
Yes — the extra day improves acclimatisation and summit success.
What is the Barranco Wall?
A steep rocky section climbed on day 4. You'll use your hands for balance in places, but it isn't technical and our guides lead you through it.
