Kilimanjaro Climb: Machame Route
This 9 day tour (with 7 day trek) ascends Kilimanjaro via forested slopes, then through heathland, on to the edge of the remnants of the Shira Volcano and skirts Kibo passing some spectacular natural features such as giant steps and glacial valleys. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is from Barafu camp via Stella Point. The descent is via the Mweka route.
- Trek through Afromontane Forest: Embark on a thrilling adventure as you hike through the lush afromontane forest on your way to Machame Camp. The vibrant vegetation, including helichrysum and lobelia, adds to the beauty of your journey.
- Heath Zone Exploration: Experience the unique “heath zone” and its attractive flora as you continue your trek from Machame Camp to Shira Camp. This section offers not only stunning landscapes but also geological wonders like lava tubes and glacial valleys.
- Barranco Wall Ascent: Conquer the Barranco Wall, a famous feature along the route, and hike through glacial valleys to reach Karanga Camp. The giant groundsels in Barranco Camp and the incredible views of Kibo and glacial valleys make this day special.
- Barafu Camp and Alpine Desert: Reach Barafu Camp, an otherworldly alpine desert campsite, where you can enjoy splendid views of Mawenzi peak. The desolate landscape and strong winds create a unique atmosphere in this high-altitude camp.
- Summiting Uhuru Peak: The ultimate highlight of your journey is reaching Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa! Begin your final summit bid before midnight, and with patience and persistence, witness a breathtaking sunrise from this remarkable vantage point. It’s an unforgettable achievement.
- Transfers and accommodation as stated.
- Full Board on trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner), guest tent, mess tent, table, chairs, lamps and fully trained, expert guides, porters and cook and all park fees, camping fees and rescue fees.
- Luxury tour also has private portable WC, larger tents (3-person tent used for 2 people) with 3 inch foam mattresses, 18 Celsius rated sleeping bags with liners, pillow, a large walk-in mess tent.
- All tours include safety equipment, safety briefings and staff fully trained in First Aid.
LENGTH
8 NIGHTS / 9 DAYS
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT
ALL YEAR
FROM
US$3,845
Kilimanjaro Climb: Machame Route
This 9 day tour (with 7 day trek) ascends Kilimanjaro via forested slopes, then through heathland, on to the edge of the remnants of the Shira Volcano and skirts Kibo passing some spectacular natural features such as giant steps and glacial valleys. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is from Barafu camp via Stella Point. The descent is via the Mweka route.
- Trek through Afromontane Forest: Embark on a thrilling adventure as you hike through the lush afromontane forest on your way to Machame Camp. The vibrant vegetation, including helichrysum and lobelia, adds to the beauty of your journey.
- Heath Zone Exploration: Experience the unique “heath zone” and its attractive flora as you continue your trek from Machame Camp to Shira Camp. This section offers not only stunning landscapes but also geological wonders like lava tubes and glacial valleys.
- Barranco Wall Ascent: Conquer the Barranco Wall, a famous feature along the route, and hike through glacial valleys to reach Karanga Camp. The giant groundsels in Barranco Camp and the incredible views of Kibo and glacial valleys make this day special.
- Barafu Camp and Alpine Desert: Reach Barafu Camp, an otherworldly alpine desert campsite, where you can enjoy splendid views of Mawenzi peak. The desolate landscape and strong winds create a unique atmosphere in this high-altitude camp.
- Summiting Uhuru Peak: The ultimate highlight of your journey is reaching Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa! Begin your final summit bid before midnight, and with patience and persistence, witness a breathtaking sunrise from this remarkable vantage point. It’s an unforgettable achievement.
- Transfers and accommodation as stated.
- Full Board on trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner), guest tent, mess tent, table, chairs, lamps and fully trained, expert guides, porters and cook and all park fees, camping fees and rescue fees.
- Luxury tour also has private portable WC, larger tents (3-person tent used for 2 people) with 3 inch foam mattresses, 18 Celsius rated sleeping bags with liners, pillow, a large walk-in mess tent.
- All tours include safety equipment, safety briefings and staff fully trained in First Aid.
Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park
LENGTH
8 nights / 9 days
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT
ALL YEAR
FROM
US$3,845
Itinerary in Detail
DAY BY DAY
Tour Experiences
Day 1: Kilimanjaro - Moshi/Arusha
Pick up in Kilimanjaro and transfer by road to Moshi and to Parkview Inn. For the semi-deluxe and luxury options, accommodation will be at Rivertrees Lodge in Arusha. Dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Moshi - Machame
After breakfast to Machame Gate where we finalise packing and official formalities before commencing the trek. Today’s hiking is through verdant afromontane forest to Machame Camp with a picnic lunch en route. Overnight Machame Camp (Full Board)
Day 3: Machame - Shira
From Machame Camp we continue to Shira Camp (picnic lunch en route). The first section is relatively steep and altitude is gained rapidly. This is the “heath zone” with its attractive vegetation such as helichrysum and lobelia. Various geologic features can be seen today from lava tubes to glacial valleys. Overnight Shira Camp (Full Board).
Day 4: Shira - Barranco
Today is a “walk high, sleep low” day to acclimatise to the altitude. We ascend into alpine desert and those that are feeling strong can even head up to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. Lunch is taken as a picnic lunch en route. Overnight Barranco Camp (Full Board).
Day 5: Barranco - Karanga (acclimatisation)
From Barranco Camp, famous for its giant groundsels (Dendrosenecio species), you ascend the Barranco wall and hike glacial valleys to Karanga Camp. Today is a relatively short day hiking and lunch is taken at Karanga Camp. In the afternoon a walk can be taken with your guides for great views of the southern walls of Kibo and deep glacial valleys. Overnight Karanga Camp (Full board).
Day 6: Karanggu - Barafu
Today is another half day ascending to Barafu camp. Once again lunch is taken in camp allowing plenty of time to relax before the summit bid. Desolate alpine desert and at times strong winds rip over this camp and yet in the evening splendid views of Mawenzi peak are the norm. A relatively early dinner is taken before heading to rest for the evening. Overnight Barafu Camp (Full Board).
Day 7: Barafu - Summit / Mweka
Most people depart just before midnight for the final summit bid. Patience and persistence is required to reach the summit and by dawn – as the first rays of light start to appear – most climbers arrive near the rim. Ascending via Stella Point affords a relatively short final section to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa! After seeing the sun rise from this wonderful vantage point we have a long day’s descent to Mweka Camp before dusk. Overnight Mweka Camp (Full Board).
Day 8: Mweka - Moshi / Arusha
After breakfast we descend once again through montane forest and around midday we take a road transfer back to Parkview in Moshi (standard option). For semi-deluxe and luxury options, accommodation at Rivertrees Lodge in Arusha for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Moshi - Kilimanjaro
After breakfast transfer back to Kilimanjaro. Drop off at the international airport for your onward flight.
Tour Experiences
Day 1: Killimanjaro - Moshi/Arusha
Pick up in Kilimanjaro and transfer by road to Moshi and to Parkview Inn. For the semi-deluxe and luxury options, accommodation will be at Rivertrees Lodge in Arusha. Dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Moshi – Machame
After breakfast to Machame Gate where we finalise packing and official formalities before commencing the trek. Today’s hiking is through verdant afromontane forest to Machame Camp with a picnic lunch en route. Overnight Machame Camp (Full Board)
Day 3: Machame - Shira
From Machame Camp we continue to Shira Camp (picnic lunch en route). The first section is relatively steep and altitude is gained rapidly. This is the “heath zone” with its attractive vegetation such as helichrysum and lobelia. Various geologic features can be seen today from lava tubes to glacial valleys. Overnight Shira Camp (Full Board).
Day 4: Shira - Barranco
Today is a “walk high, sleep low” day to acclimatise to the altitude. We ascend into alpine desert and those that are feeling strong can even head up to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. Lunch is taken as a picnic lunch en route. Overnight Barranco Camp (Full Board).
Day 5: Barranco - Karanga (Acclimitisation)
From Barranco Camp, famous for its giant groundsels (Dendrosenecio species), you ascend the Barranco wall and hike glacial valleys to Karanga Camp. Today is a relatively short day hiking and lunch is taken at Karanga Camp. In the afternoon a walk can be taken with your guides for great views of the southern walls of Kibo and deep glacial valleys. Overnight Karanga Camp (Full board).
Day 6: Karanga - Barafu
Today is another half day ascending to Barafu camp. Once again lunch is taken in camp allowing plenty of time to relax before the summit bid. Desolate alpine desert and at times strong winds rip over this camp and yet in the evening splendid views of Mawenzi peak are the norm. A relatively early dinner is taken before heading to rest for the evening. Overnight Barafu Camp (Full Board).
Day 7: Barafu - Summit / Mweka
Most people depart just before midnight for the final summit bid. Patience and persistence is required to reach the summit and by dawn – as the first rays of light start to appear – most climbers arrive near the rim. Ascending via Stella Point affords a relatively short final section to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa! After seeing the sun rise from this wonderful vantage point we have a long day’s descent to Mweka Camp before dusk. Overnight Mweka Camp (Full Board).
Day 8: Mweka - Moshi / Arusha
After breakfast we descend once again through montane forest and around midday we take a road transfer back to Parkview in Moshi (standard option). For semi-deluxe and luxury options, accommodation at Rivertrees Lodge in Arusha for dinner and overnight.
Day 8: Moshi - Kilimanjaro
After breakfast transfer back to Kilimanjaro. Drop off at the international airport for your onward flight.
What Our Clients Say About Us
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our clients’ feedback.
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
What Our Clients Say About Us
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our clients’ feedback.
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Tanzania.
Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we'll make your African dreams a reality.
Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Rachel resides on the vibrant West Coast of Canada, specifically on Vancouver Island. She has a profound love for travel, having explored nearly 30 countries. However, it was a solo journey to Africa that truly ignited her passion. Upon stepping foot in Botswana for the first time, Rachel was captivated and knew she needed to explore more of the continent. Since then, she has ventured solo to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya, where she traveled with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps.
It was during these experiences that Rachel realized her desire to be a part of the Gamewatchers team. More about Rachel
You can contact Rae at rae@gamewatchers.com or call +1-250-588-9112
Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let's embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.
Brad Wierman
Brad Wierman
Hello there, I'm Brad, and my safari odyssey began with my first expedition to Kenya in 1984. Since then, I've had the privilege of guiding and exploring various African destinations, from Tanzania to Ethiopia, Rwanda to Zambia, and beyond. Yet, after 34 years, East Africa still captivates me like no other. My most recent adventure here was in June 2018. As an Environmental Conservation major in college, I found my perfect match in Gamewatchers and Porini Camps, whose groundbreaking conservation efforts in Kenya are unparalleled. The moment you witness an elephant in the wild for the first time, you're irrevocably hooked, just as I was. Whether you're embarking on your inaugural safari or your tenth, I'm here to curate the ideal experience tailored to your expertise level, accommodation preferences, and budget.
I'm based in Bend, Oregon, and you can reach me at brad@gamewatchers.com or by calling +1 224-558-1887. Let's make your safari dreams come true!
Sally Wanjau
Greetings, I'm Sally Wanjau, and my journey with Kenyan safaris has been a lifelong passion. Since the 1980s, I've roamed these magnificent landscapes, ultimately making Kenya my cherished home through marriage. While currently residing in the UK with my family, my heart remains firmly planted in Kenya. In the past, I ran my own safari business, collaborating closely with Gamewatchers Safaris to craft bespoke adventures for travelers seeking unique experiences. Now, as part of the dedicated team of Safari Advisers at Gamewatchers Safaris, I'm thrilled to continue sharing my love and expertise for this captivating land. My extensive travels throughout East, South, and Southern Africa have nurtured my passion, yet Kenya, with its Porini Camps and unforgettable wildlife encounters, remains my true inspiration.
If you're ready to embark on an East African adventure, reach out to me at sallywanjau@gamewatchers.com or call me at +44 7546 433 250, and together, we'll make your safari dreams come to life.
Wayne Hammond
Wayne Hammond
Hello, I'm Wayne Hammond, and I'm fortunate to have embarked on over 30 incredible journeys to the enchanting continent of Africa. It's a place that has captured my heart time and time again. My travels have taken me to Kenya, which I've had the pleasure of visiting far more times than I can recall, as well as to Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and Mozambique. Among my cherished bush haunts, I hold dear the Masai Mara in Kenya, the mesmerizing Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, and the wondrous South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. I'm not just a passionate traveler but also an avid amateur wildlife photographer and an occasional travel writer. Currently based in the UK, I'm proud to serve as a Safari Consultant for Gamewatchers Safaris, helping fellow adventurers craft their dream African experiences.
If you're ready to embark on your own African adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to me at wayne@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +44 7986 978 985. Let's bring your African safari dreams to life.
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I've had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you're eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@gamewatchers.com or reach out to me by telephone at +44 7814 439 232.
Let's connect and embark on a journey through Africa's wild wonders together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. While my heart lies in India, I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendors of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
I’m based in Bangalore, India, and you can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or reach me by phone at +91 801 788 5256, including WhatsApp. Let’s embark on a journey to celebrate the beauty and conservation of our natural world together.
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Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com, and let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together.
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Tanzania.