|
Mt Kilimanjaro Climb - 6 Day Machame Route
|
|
|
The Machame Route is the most popular and known as whiskey route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the route of choice for many people because it provides impressive views and a variety of habitats. About 50% of all climbers, and most seasoned climbers, choose the Machame route for their trip.
Machames draw is in its scenic beauty. However, the trail is considered difficult, steep and challenging, particularly due to its shorter itinerary. Therefore this route is better suited for more adventurous folks or those with some high altitude, hiking or backpacking experience.
The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a ...read more...
|
|
|
Tags:
|
|
|
|
Day:1
|
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
|
|
Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
Distance: 11km | 7miles
Habitat: Rain Forest
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
The drive from Arusha to Machame Gate takes about 2hours. The journey passes through arusha main road and Machame village which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. As we leave the park gate, we walk through the dense rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge until we reach the Machame Camp.
Distance and Time:
The distance covered on the first day is around 11 kilometers (approximately 7 miles), and the estimated time to complete this portion is about 5-7 hours. This can vary based on the pace of the climbers, their fitness level, and how well they acclimatize to the altitude.
|
|
Safari Agent Comment:
|
|
|
Add Comment / Request:
|
|
|
|
Day:2
|
Machame Camp to Shira 2Camp
|
Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 5km l 3miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Health
We leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path up to a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.
|
|
Safari Agent Comment:
|
|
|
Add Comment / Request:
|
|
|
|
Day:3
|
Shira 2Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
|
Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km | 4 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 3 km | 2 miles
Hiking Time: 3hours | 2miles.
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
Flora and Fauna: The flora in this zone consists of hardy plants like lichens, mosses, and low shrubs due to the harsh conditions. At Barranco Camp, you'll encounter more lush vegetation, including senecio trees and other alpine plants. There isn't much fauna in these higher altitudes, but you might spot some birds like ravens and eagles.
Overall, this part of the Machame Route offers stunning scenery and a challenging trek as you gain altitude and experience varying weather conditions. Proper preparation and acclimatization are crucial for a successful climb.
|
|
Safari Agent Comment:
|
|
|
Add Comment / Request:
|
|
|
|
Day:4
|
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp Camp
|
|
Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Distance: 8.5km, 6-8 hours
Altitude gained: 676m
After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up to the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction, which connects, with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease. We continue up toward Barafu Camp, and once reached you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles. An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Flora and fauna in these higher-altitude camps are scarce due to the harsh conditions. You might see some hardy, low-lying plants, but don't expect lush vegetation.The climb from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp is challenging due to the altitude gain and the rocky, steep terrain. It's crucial to take your time, stay hydrated, and follow your guide's instructions. Altitude sickness can become a concern at these elevations, so be vigilant about any symptoms. Overall, this part of the Machame Route is physically demanding but offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment as you prepare for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
|
|
Safari Agent Comment:
|
|
|
Add Comment / Request:
|
|
|
|
Day:5
|
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
|
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
.
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Arctic
.
Distance: 12 km | 7 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
|
|
Safari Agent Comment:
|
|
|
Add Comment / Request:
|
|
|
|
Day:6
|
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
|
|
Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Distance: 9.1km, 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Descending from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate on the Machame Route of Mount Kilimanjaro is the final leg of your journey and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Descent Time: The descent from Mweka Camp (3,100 meters/10,170 feet) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters/5,380 feet) is approximately 10 kilometers (about 6.2 miles) long and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Terrain and Difficulty: The descent path from Mweka Camp is a well-marked trail that passes through lush, dense rainforest. The trail is relatively easy compared to the steep ascents and rocky terrain encountered during the ascent. However, it can be muddy and slippery, so proper hiking boots and trekking poles are still essential.
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye to the mountain. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!
|
|
Safari Agent Comment:
|
|
|
Add Comment / Request:
|
|
|
Total price: Sharing group $1580
|
|
Toll Free No: (888)-763-9963
Contact Safaris Dept: contactus@zururaafricasafaris.com
|
|
Push
|
|
|
| Post a New Story from your
Account, then Vote for it Here by
clicking Push |
|