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- info@elipsafricaadventure.com
- Moshono, Arusha - Tanzania
The 6-day Machame Route, nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” is Kilimanjaro’s most popular trek for its stunning scenic diversity, excellent acclimatization profile, and adventurous camping experience. This southern approach traverses lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and volcanic ridges, culminating in a thrilling summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft).
Your journey is fully supported by expert guides, porters, and cooks. This trek is challenging but rewarding, ideal for adventurers seeking a more immersive wilderness experience.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +1,035m
⛺ Accommodation: Machame Camp
After breakfast in Moshi/Arusha, transfer to Machame Gate (1,800m). Complete registration, meet your crew, and begin trekking through dense rainforest alive with colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and moss-draped trees. The trail ascends steadily to Machame Camp (2,835m), nestled at the forest’s edge. Settle into your tent, enjoy a hot meal, and rest under the stars.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +915m
⛺ Accommodation: Shira Camp
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend into Kilimanjaro’s heath zone. The trail steepens, winding through rocky terrain and giant heathers, with panoramic views of Shira Plateau and Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at Shira Camp (3,750m), perched on a volcanic ridge, and soak in sunset vistas over the cloud-covered plains below.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +150m (net gain)
⛺ Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Trek east across the Shira Plateau, passing the Lava Tower (4,600m)—a dramatic volcanic spire. This “climb high, sleep low” day aids acclimatization. Descend into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by Senecio forests and the iconic Barranco Wall. Reach Barranco Camp (3,900m) by late afternoon, with jaw-dropping views of Kibo Peak’s glacial slopes.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +95m
⛺ Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Tackle the Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble up a 300m rock face (no technical skills needed). Traverse alpine deserts and ridges, descending into the Karanga Valley before climbing to Karanga Camp (3,995m). This short day maximizes acclimatization while offering close-up views of Kibo’s glaciers and the southern ice fields.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +678m
⛺ Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp (4,673m), your basecamp for the summit push. The barren, lunar-like landscape offers stark beauty, with Kibo Peak looming overhead. Rest, hydrate, and prepare gear for the midnight ascent. After an early dinner, sleep briefly before waking at 11:00 PM for the final climb.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +1,222m
🔻 Elevation Loss: -2,815m
⛺ Accommodation: Mweka Camp
🌙 Midnight Summit Push 🌙
Begin your climb under starlit skies, traversing steep scree slopes to Stella Point (5,756m). Witness the sunrise over Mawenzi Peak before the final 1-hour hike to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Celebrate at the Roof of Africa, then descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Continue down to Mweka Camp (3,080m) through alpine meadows, arriving exhausted but triumphant.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
🔻 Elevation Loss: -1,440m
🚐 Drive Time to Moshi/Arusha: 1–2 hours
Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). Receive your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate (gold for summiteers, green for others). Transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower and celebration!
Elpis (meaning “hope” in Hebrew) drives our mission: to deliver affordable, sustainable safaris that support Tanzania’s wildlife and communities. With certified guides, small groups, and eco-friendly practices, we ensure every trip leaves a positive footprint.
5-Day Marangu Kilimanjaro Climb – Brief Safari Overview : Summit Africa’s Highest Peak with Hut Accommodations & Expert Guides The 5-day Marangu
5-Day Marangu Kilimanjaro Climb – Brief Safari Overview : Summit Africa’s Highest Peak with Hut Accommodations & Expert Guides The 5-day Marangu
At Elpis Africa Adventures, we craft unforgettable journeys across Tanzania — from thrilling safaris and Kilimanjaro treks to Zanzibar’s tranquil shores. Inspired by Elpis (ἐλπίς), meaning “hope,” we ignite hope through every adventure.
