Machame route is more strenuous than the commonly used Marangu route. It does however offer the most spectacular views crossing the secret glaciated world of Kilimanjaro’s heights.
We recommend comfortable light clothing for the day and something warmer for the evenings, which can be chilly in the northern highlands. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for those planning on walking in the parks (must be booked in advance). You will further need a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
You can find a more detailed list of items to take in our article "What to take on Tanzania safari?"
In short - Tanzania is absolutely safe for tourists. Tourism provides a large part of the country’s foreign income and the local authorities take matters of security very seriously. Moreover, Tanzania is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and Tanzanians are very friendly as a people.
This said, some criminality does exist, just as it does everywhere else. We, therefore, recommend that you exercise common sense and follow the rules below:
Avoid the dangerous parts of any town- these are mentioned in most books and your guide will be happy to point them out.
Do not leave your belongings unattended.
When planning to take photos in towns, it is best to bring along a guide. This is not so much in the interests of safety, but, rather to facilitate communication with the locals, who are – for cultural reasons – not always happy about being photographed and often do not speak English.
After dark it is best to avoid walking. Instead, use taxis for all your travel within town. These are best organized by your tour operator or hotel reception.
We highly recommend that you have your travel insurance regardless of what foreign country you may be visiting. If you are planning a Kilimanjaro climb, make sure that climbing emergencies are covered in your policy at height no less than 6,000 meters. If necessary your Tour Manager will assist with purchasing such insurance.
After registering at Machame Gate begin trekking through the rain forest on a winding trail for 5- 7 hrs to Machame hut campsite 3100m. Set up camp in time for supper and overnight.
After breakfast, leave the glades of the rain forest and continue ascending, crossing a little valley and steep rocky ridge covered with heather. The route then swerves west into a river gorge at 3658m°(5 - 7hrs). Supper & overnight at Shira hut campsite.
From Shira plateau continue trekking east to a junction leading to "Arrow Glacier" Continue to Barranco hut campsite, a 5-7hrs trek away at (3950m). Supper and overnight.
Leaving Barranco continue walking on a steep ridge passing the Barranco wall, through Karanga valley. Continue trekking to the Barafu hut campsite in time for supper and overnight. The duration of the day's trek is approximately 8 to 9 hrs). The two peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo can be seen from this point.
Just after midnight trek to Stella Point (5745m) on the way to Kili's highest summit Uhuru Peak at 5895m. This part of the climb takes about 8 hours and is fairly strenuous! From the summit descend to Mweka hut campsite (3100m) for supper and overnight. This part of the hike takes approximately 5hrs.
The day is spent descending to the Mweka park gates • a 3 to 4-hour trek. Transfer to Hotel.
Machame route is more strenuous than the commonly used Marangu route. It does however offer the most spectacular views crossing the secret glaciated world of Kilimanjaro's heights.
