Machame Route Kilimanjaro Ascent
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Set off to conquer the roof of Africa by joining a friendly group for the ascent of Kilimanjaro via the famous Machame route. This GIR circuit (Grouped Individual Travel), available from just 2 participants, offers you an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Tanzania’s spectacular landscapes. Between tropical forests, alpine moorlands and high-altitude glaciers, you will experience each day as a step towards a dream. Supervised by an experienced local team, this legendary trek combines physical challenge and total immersion in magnificent natural surroundings. A departure is guaranteed every 10th of the month* : all you need to do is choose your date, pack your bag, and let yourself be carried by the energy of the group to the summit of Kilimanjaro, at 5,895 metres.
*Except March, April, May and November (unfavourable season).
Highlights of the trip “Kilimanjaro Ascent via the Machame Route”
- 7-day trek on the Machame route – A flagship Kilimanjaro itinerary, renowned for its beauty and ideal progression for acclimatisation.
- Ascent to the Uhuru Peak summit (5,895 m) – The highest point in Africa, with a breathtaking sunrise over the roof of the continent.
- Crossing varied and spectacular landscapes – Lush equatorial forest, high-altitude moorland, alpine desert and summit glaciers.
- Observation of endemic flora – Giant lobelias, tree groundsels and other plant wonders unique to this altitude.
- Nights in bivouac under the stars – An immersion in the heart of nature with full logistical support (porters, cook, guides).
- Support from an experienced local team – Certified mountain guides, porters and a cook to ensure safety, comfort and a friendly atmosphere.
- Sharing the experience with other travellers – Thanks to the GIR format, experience the ascent in a group spirit while retaining your independence.
Price includes
- All transfers for the group registered in the programme;
- A French-speaking lead guide for the climb and the pre-climb briefing;
- Full board during the Kilimanjaro ascent; and the meals indicated in the programme;
- The assistance of one or more assistant guides, a team of porters and one or more cooks;
- Park fees of 1030 USD/person for 7 days at Kilimanjaro;
- One night in Arusha before and after the trek (or equivalent);
- A decompression chamber will be available throughout the climb;
- The loan of camping equipment see list in important information... except sleeping bags;
- VAT on transport, accommodation and services;
The price does not include
- International flights;
- Tanzanian visa fees (50 USD);
- Hotel costs in the event of abandoning the ascent;
- Individual insurance policies (cancellation/baggage, assistance/repatriation, comprehensive cover);
- Tips for guides and porters (from 130 to 280 USD per client);
- Options and extras not included in the programme;
- Dinner in Arusha on day 1 and lunch on the last day;
- Any increase in park taxes or government taxes
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Tanzania Information
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Itinerary
Arrival at Kilimanjaro - Transfer
Welcome on arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to the lodge located near the airport.
Free dinner and overnight at the lodge.
- Stages : Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Accommodation : Moyoni Airport Lodge
Arusha - Machame Hut
Departure from Arusha in the morning to the Chagga village of Machame, the starting point of this trek, 4 to 6 hours’ walk through a dense and impenetrable forest of rubber trees, giant ferns, begonias and figs.
Little by little, as you gain altitude, the vegetation changes. The tropical forest gives way to tall grasses and giant heathers.
The camp is set up near the huts of Machame Hut. (3050m).
Walking time: 4 to 6 hours
- Stages: Machame Hut
- Accommodation: Overnight camping at Machame Hut
Machame Hut - Shira
Leaving the camp, with, if the weather is clear, a wonderful view of Uhuru, the trail winds through a savannah of tall grass, volcanic stones and heather draped in lichen….Then the first giant groundsels appear, like sentinels guarding an untouched territory. The steeper path crosses a ghostly landscape of volcanic lava, caves, streams… until the plateau.
After a walk of 5 to 6 hours you will reach Shira camp (3700m)
Walking time: 5 to 6 hours
- Stages: Shira
- Accommodation: Night at Shira camp
Shira - Barranco
Breakfast.
Leaving the Shira campsite, the route heads towards Kibo. The ascent is steady to the Lawa Tower pass, located at 4570 m.
The descent to Barranco Camp leads to the edge of a gigantic canyon. The great Barranco, where the giant groundsels, thoroughly watered by countless small waterfalls, grow in abundance.
After 6 hours of walking and passing 4600m, we will set up camp at Barranco Hut (3950m).
Walking time: 6 hours.
- Stages: Barranco
- Accommodation: Overnight in camp at Barranco
Barranco - Karanga
You will cross the great wall of Barranco. There is no difficulty, but the cliff is impressive.
After a long traverse, entirely made up of ascents and descents on the slopes of Kilimanjaro, you arrive at your camp for the night.
Walking time: 3 hours.
- Stages : Karanga
- Accommodation : Overnight in camp at Karanga
Karanga - Barafu
We continue with our approach of short stages to facilitate perfect acclimatisation.
You will climb a large moraine up to Barafu camp. (4550m).
Walking time : 3 hours.
- Stages : Barafu
- Accommodation : Overnight in camp at Barafu
Uhuru Peak - Mweka
Departure around midnight, it can be between -10°C and -15°C.
The path winds its way to the foot of the Ratzel and Rebman glaciers, between which the track continues. The slope is steep, the atmosphere unreal in the middle of these suspended glaciers.
After 6 hours of walking, at first light, you will arrive at the edge of the crater, between Stella Point and Hans Meyer Point.
A further hour of effort on the snow-covered ridge of the volcano to reach the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m).
There, you will regain some strength before starting the descent to Mweka Hut, reached in the afternoon after 3-4 hours' walking.
Walking time : 9 to 10 hours.
- Stages : Uhuru Peak - Mweka
- Accommodation : Night in camp at Mweka Hut
Mweka Gate - Arusha
Direct descent to the park gates. Allow 6-7 hours to reach Mweka Gate.
Before going for lunch, you will say goodbye to the porters and cooks. Your guides will take the opportunity to present you with the diplomas, if you have reached the summit.
Transfer to Arusha.
- Stages : Arusha
- Accommodation : Dinner and overnight at Moyoni Airport Lodge
Kilimanjaro Airport
After breakfast at Moyoni Airport Lodge, you will have a free morning to arrange on site.
Lunch not included.
After lunch, depart for Kilimanjaro Airport for your international flight or the start of your safari or a flight for a relaxing extension in Zanzibar!
- Stages : Kilimanjaro Airport
