This climb kilimanjaro is run by Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, a locally based Tanzanian operator. You climb with experienced mountain guides, porters and cooks, and we plan every detail with you.
First, every climb kilimanjaro we run is tailor-made, so we can adjust the dates, accommodation and pace. In addition, our local team supports you from arrival to departure. Before you travel, you can also read about the area on the official Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) website. For more ideas, see our other Arusha tours.
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, the most scenic and popular trail to Africa’s highest peak. Many climbers also know it as the "Whiskey Route." Machame offers stunning landscapes, excellent acclimatization and a high success rate. As a result, this 8-day itinerary suits anyone who wants a rewarding, safe and unforgettable Kilimanjaro trek.
When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a Serengeti Wildlife Safaris representative warmly welcomes you. Then we transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax at the hotel or explore the town. In the evening, you meet your certified mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and gear check.
After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate, which takes approx. 2 hours by road. There your team handles registration and permit formalities. Next, you begin your hike through lush montane rainforest to Machame Camp. Today you cover 11km in 5–6 hours, and then you spend the night in tents at Machame Camp.
Environment: Montane Forest
Today you leave the forest behind and ascend through moorland terrain. This 5km hike (4–5 hours) includes some rocky sections as well as amazing panoramic views. First, you arrive at Shira Cave Camp for lunch and rest. Later, in the evening, you enjoy a short acclimatization walk.
Environment: Moorland
Trek for approximately 10km (6–7 hours) through an alpine desert to reach Lava Tower. Then descend to Barranco Camp for the night. This "climb high, sleep low" approach helps with acclimatization. Today may also bring your first experience of altitude effects.
Environment: Alpine Desert
First, begin with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall (4,200m). Next, a series of ridges and valleys leads you to Karanga Camp. This 6km trek (3–4 hours) also provides stunning vistas of glaciers and valleys.
Environment: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, hike 4km (3–4 hours) to Barafu Camp, your base before the summit push. Once you arrive, rest, hydrate and eat an early dinner. Then prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Around midnight, you begin the challenging trek to the summit under starlight. The trail to Stella Point (5,756m) is steep and demanding. However, the reward is an unforgettable sunrise over Africa. Next, you continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the continent.
After photos and celebrations, you descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Finally, you continue down to Mweka Camp for the night.
Trekking Time: 12–15 hours total
Environment: Arctic to Rainforest Transition
Trek through the rainforest for 10km (2–3 hours) to Mweka Gate. There you receive your summit certificate. Afterwards, enjoy lunch with your crew, and then transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
High Success Rate: the route has an excellent acclimatization profile.
Breathtaking Views: you also see the Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, glaciers and the Uhuru Peak sunrise.
Diverse Ecosystems: you pass through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert and the Arctic summit.
Moderate Difficulty: finally, it offers a perfect balance between adventure and altitude challenge.
The climb is an 8-day itinerary. It includes 6 days of hiking as well as 2 days for arrival and departure.
The best times are during the dry seasons: January to early March and June to October. During these months, the trails are usually drier and the views clearer.
You need moderate to high fitness, because you hike 4–7 hours daily. Summit day is also much longer, at 12–14 hours. You do not need technical climbing experience. However, good stamina is essential.
Your guides check your health daily with an oximeter. They are also trained to detect and handle altitude sickness. In addition, the park and rescue fees include emergency evacuation.
