Kilimanjaro Climb - Machame Route

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 and pretty flowers including a variety of lilies and hibiscus. Colobus and Blue Monkeys may often be seen jumping between these ancient trees with an abundance of birdlife and these forests are never quiet.

As you gain altitude the rainforest is left behind and you head for the Shira Plateau on the second day of the trail. On day three you enter the picturesque alpine desert where the harsh terrain ensures that only the hardiest of plant species can survive. From here the summit beckons – permanently iced she tempts you to reach the highest point in Africa – Uhuru peak. A magnificent feeling.

Continue the hike on the southern slopes of the mountain admiring giant glaciers on the higher peaks along the way. Great photo opportunities unfold with red sunlight playing on the cliffs and ice fields visible from the camp at dusk and dawn. Hikers can expect to wake up above the clouds on the fourth day on the mountain with breath-taking views into the distance below. On day three you trek through an area called the “Garden of the Senecios”, which features many of the huge senecio plants. Further along the trail it leads you up and down the rocky path to the base camp before heading for the summit. There are stunning views of Mwenzi Peak and Kibo’s glaciers.

A long early morning hike in pitch darkness takes you to the crater rim with most hikers arriving just before dawn. Uhuru Peak (19,340ft/5 895m), the highest point in Africa and the summit of the worlds’ highest free standing mountain is now tantalizingly close, just a few hundred metres away! A soft red-yellow glow on the horizon greets you en-route to the summit – as you experience a once in a life time sunrise over Africa!?? After all the excitement of the summit the trail leads you back down the dusty path past the base camp towards Mweka Camp, where you spend your last night on the mountain.

The last day is a short walk through montane forest to Mweka Gate from where you will be taken to the Keys Hotel, for your last night in Moshi and with plenty to celebrate!