Known for its stunning scenery and gradual acclimatization profile, the Machame Route offers a perfect balance between beauty and success. This route traverses five ecological zones and allows your body to adjust gradually, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak Africa’s highest point.
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights on the mountain
Altitude: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
Accommodation: Mountain tents with full-service camp crew
Difficulty: Challenging
Success Rate: High
Best Months: January–March & June–October
Start/End: Moshi
Distance: ~11 km
Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After registration at Machame Gate, begin your trek through the lush rainforest. The trail can be muddy and slippery but is shaded and rich in flora. Reach Machame Camp in time for evening tea and briefing.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Machame Camp
Distance: ~5 km
Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Leave the forest and ascend into the moorland zone with fantastic views of Shira Plateau. You’ll notice the terrain changing to low shrubs and moss-covered rocks. A shorter but steeper hike.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shira Camp
Distance: ~10 km
Trekking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
This day is all about acclimatization. Climb high to Lava Tower, then descend to Barranco Camp. Although you sleep at a lower altitude than Lava Tower, this process helps your body adapt to the elevation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Distance: ~5 km
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Start the day by climbing the impressive Barranco Wall — a highlight of the route. After the climb, enjoy scenic views and a relatively short trek to Karanga Valley, the last water point before the summit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Karanga Camp
Distance: ~4 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s hike is short but steep. Arrive at Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. Rest, hydrate, and prepare your gear for a midnight start to Uhuru Peak.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Distance: ~17 km total
Trekking Time: 12–15 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Begin your ascent around midnight. Trek via Stella Point to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, by sunrise. Take photos and descend back to Barafu, rest briefly, then continue to Mweka Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Distance: ~10 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Finish your descent through the lush rainforest. At the gate, receive your summit certificate. Your Mahali Africa Travel driver will be waiting to take you back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight (optional): Hotel in Moshi
