Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from NK Safaris and transferred to your hotel in Arusha, located approximately 50 kilometers away with a drive time of about 1 hour. Arusha serves as the main hub for Kilimanjaro and safari adventures. This day is reserved for rest, acclimatization to the local environment, and a detailed trek briefing. Your guide will review the itinerary, safety protocols, altitude awareness, and equipment check. The evening is free to relax, enjoy a nutritious dinner, and prepare mentally for the climb ahead.

Extra activities
Arusha city tour
Local market visit
Coffee plantation excursion

Day 2: Arusha to Machame Gate to Machame Camp

After an early breakfast, you will drive approximately 170 kilometers to Machame Gate on the southern side of Mount Kilimanjaro, taking about 5 hours. Upon arrival, registration with Kilimanjaro National Park authorities is completed, and porters organize trekking equipment. The hike begins through dense rainforest, with moss-covered trees and a rich variety of wildlife including blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. The trek covers about 10 kilometers, taking 5 to 6 hours with moderate elevation gain, and culminates at Machame Camp at 3,000 meters. This first day provides an opportunity to adjust to altitude and enjoy the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes.

Extra activities
Forest photography
Bird watching
Short nature walks

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

The trail today climbs through heath and moorland zones, leaving the rainforest behind. The trek covers roughly 5 kilometers in 5 to 6 hours, gradually ascending to Shira Camp at 3,850 meters. This area is characterized by open landscapes, giant lobelias, and expansive views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The hike is steady and allows trekkers to continue acclimatizing while enjoying panoramic vistas and unique geological formations. Shira Camp offers a perfect spot to rest before tackling the higher altitudes in the coming days.

Extra activities
Sunset photography
Short acclimatization walk
Observation of alpine flora

Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

This day follows the principle of climb high, sleep low for effective altitude adaptation. The hike to Lava Tower, at 4,630 meters, covers about 10 kilometers in 6 to 7 hours. You will experience impressive volcanic rock formations and enjoy spectacular mountain views along the way. After lunch at Lava Tower, the trail descends into Barranco Valley, reaching Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters. The day provides moderate exertion while continuing acclimatization and offers opportunities to observe wildlife, unique flora, and dramatic cliffs.

Extra activities
Photography at Lava Tower
Exploration of Barranco Valley
Short acclimatization walks

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Today begins with the famous Barranco Wall climb, a steep but non-technical scramble that takes about 1 to 2 hours, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of surrounding valleys and glaciers. The total distance covered is around 6 kilometers in 4 to 5 hours, passing through alpine desert terrain and small streams. You will reach Karanga Camp at 4,035 meters, where the afternoon is spent resting and enjoying the surrounding scenery. This shorter day conserves energy for the final push toward the summit.

Extra activities
Scenic viewpoint stops
Short acclimatization hikes
Photography of glaciers and cliffs

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

The trail today ascends into the alpine desert zone, characterized by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. The trek covers approximately 4 kilometers in 3 to 4 hours, leading to Barafu Camp at 4,673 meters, the last base before the summit attempt. The afternoon is reserved for rest, hydration, and final preparations for the summit. Guides provide a detailed briefing about the summit climb, equipment checks, and strategies for a successful ascent.

Extra activities
Equipment inspection
Short acclimatization hike
Photography at Barafu Camp

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Summit day begins around midnight, with a slow, steady climb under the stars. The ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 5,895 meters, typically takes 6 to 8 hours. Climbers reach Gilman’s Point on the crater rim and continue to the summit, taking in panoramic views of glaciers, valleys, and surrounding peaks. After celebrating at the summit, trekkers descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest and then continue down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters. The total duration of this day ranges from 12 to 14 hours, making it the most challenging and rewarding segment of the trek.

Extra activities
Summit photography
Glacier viewing
Celebration at the summit

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha

After breakfast, you descend through the lush rainforest zone to Mweka Gate, covering approximately 10 kilometers in 3 to 4 hours. Upon arrival, you sign out with park authorities and receive your Mount Kilimanjaro summit certificates. A private vehicle transfers you back to Arusha, where you enjoy a shower, rest, and optional celebration dinner with the team. This day marks the conclusion of your incredible Machame Route adventure.

Extra activities
Celebration dinner
Souvenir shopping
Relaxation and spa services

Day 9: Departure from Arusha

Based on your flight schedule, NK Safaris will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. This marks the end of your unforgettable 9 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Trek.