Climb Kilimanjaro – Machame Route

A pretty option, traversing from the south-western side of the mountain.

As you hike through the lush green rainforest from the Machame Gate you realize that you have just embarked on an adventure of a lifetime. Giant tree ferns flourish underneath huge tropical trees decorated with Oldman’s Beard (usnea lichen) and pretty flowers including a variety of lilies and hibiscus. Colobus and Blue Monkeys may often be seen jumping between these ancient trees and there is with an abundance of birdlife and …. these forests are never quiet.

A minimum of six days hiking is recommended (we strongly suggest an additional night on the mountain for acclimatisation, particularly if you live at sea level) for this route that starts on the very scenic southwest side of Kilimanjaro, and follows the contours along the southern face, finally ascending from the southeast up past Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak. You will see Kilimanjaro from many angles and the scenery is spectacular!

• Frequently used route.
• Ascent on the south-western side of the mountain, traversing around the southern slopes of Kibo and descending on the south side.
• Camping on the mountain

Route Summary:
Trail length: 6 day/5 night or may be done as a 7 day/6 night hike
Start: Machame Gate (1,490 m/4,890 ft)
Highest point reached: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft)
Finish: Mweka Gate (1,980 m/6,500 ft)
Total trail distance: 96.3 km / 59.8 miles

Pre/post night accommodation: Keys Hotel, Moshi
Departs: Daily or join a scheduled trip.
Nearest international airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Country: Tanzania
Best time to go: January-March and the end June-October