Machame Route, Gold Level Premium Climb (On Request)
Machame Route, Gold Level Premium Climb (On Request)
8 Days Starting and ending in Arusha, Tanzania
Visiting: Arusha, Kilimanjaro National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro
Tour operator:
Tour code:
437027
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
English , GermanTrip Styles:
Active, Adventure Tours, Camping, Small Group, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Machame Route, Gold Level Premium Climb in Tanzania. This exclusive trek offers a smooth acclimatization process with strategically located camps along the route. On the third day, the journey converges with the Lemosho and Umbwe routes at the scenic Barranco Camp. Enjoy the expertise of English and German-speaking professional mountain guides, all certified in Wilderness First Aid, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. The tour includes two nights in a superior hotel and five nights in comfortable camp accommodations, with all meals provided on the mountain. Experience breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to the majestic Uhuru Peak, with the support of a dedicated porter for each participant. This premium climb promises a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha Area (45Km – 1Hr)
Location: Arusha
Accommodation Name: Onsea House or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative, and transferred to the hotel. In the evening, join the briefing with the climb representatives, who will share various information or you upcoming climb and ensure you are ready to embark on your adventure (For the kit list please refer to the ‘What do I need to bring section’). Please note the check-in starts at 02:00 pm.
Overnight in Arusha area.
Day 2 : Machame Gate – Machame Camp (Hiking 11Km – 5/6Hrs)
Location: Kilimanjaro National Park
Accommodation Name: Machame Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A guide and a mountain support crew will arrive at the hotel in the morning in order to meet you and hold a quick briefing, after which you will travel by vehicle to Kilimanjaro National Park's entrance: Machame Gate (1,800 m). After the quick formality of acquiring climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service, the group will start trekking up to Machame Camp (3,010 m). The trekking route includes passage through the rainforest (where tropical showers are highly probable), so we recommend you take not only spare clothes but also your raincoats. Change in Elevation: Machame Gate (1,800 m) – Machame Camp (3,010 m). Hiking distance: 11 km. Hiking time: 5–6 hours.
Overnight in Machame Camp.
Day 3 : Machame Camp – Shira Camp (5Km – 4/5Hrs) / Lava Tower – Shira Camp (Acclimatization Hike 2Km – 1/2Hrs)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Shira Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will start trekking up to the second high-altitude camp, Shira Camp (3,845 m). On this day you will emerge from the rainforest and for the first time be able to see stunning views of the Shira Plateau laid out in front of you. Physically speaking, the trekking is not very difficult, but you may feel the changes in altitude, so pay attention to your body and remember that choosing the proper pace is extremely important for good trekking. When you reach the camp, you will have lunch and some rest, after which the group will go on an acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower Camp with a 300-meter gain in altitude. Back down at Shira Camp, you will be served a hot dinner. Hiking from Machame Camp to Shira Camp: Change in Elevation: Machame Camp (3,010 m) — Shira Camp (3,845 m). Hiking distance: 5 km. Hiking time: 4–5 hours. Acclimatization hike: Change in Elevation: Shira Camp (3,845 m) — Destination point en route to Lava Tower (4,120 m). Hiking distance: 2 km. Hiking time: 1–2 hours.
Overnight in Shira Camp.
Day 4 : Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Descent Barranco Camp (11Km – 6/8Hrs)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Barranco Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will leave Shira Camp (3,845 m) and start your way to the key point of the route: Lava Tower (4,630 m). This section of the route has a lot of ascents and descents that end in a camp at over 4,600 meters. It might be difficult, and you may feel some discomfort, but in order to successfully acclimate to the altitude you have to spend at least 1–2 hours here, so this is where lunch will be. Then you will descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m). Here you can see the famous Barranco Wall, impressive in both its massive size and steepness! Next day you will be climbing it, but don't worry: it features a very simple hiking trail. Change in Elevation: Shira Camp (3,845 m) — Lava Tower (4,630 m) — Barranco Camp (3,960 m). Hiking distance: 11 km. Hiking time: 6–8 hours. Alternatively, you can choose to add an extra acclimatization night (upon an additional cost):
Extra Acclimatization Night (Between Day 4 & Day 5): (Please note that if you select this option, the services will be moved one day ahead). Early wake-up, breakfast and you start conquering the Barranco Wall. We recommend you to start as early as possible to outstrip other groups. Ascending the wall of the gorge is not a complexity at all. It takes only about one hour. After this accomplishment, you will have an opportunity to rest and take some photos, having Kibo volcano as a spectacular background. Then relatively complex trekking awaits you. The rest of the way to Karanga is full of highs and lows, but, no worries, our guide will choose the most optimal trekking speed for you. After you reach the camp, a warm lunch will be offered. After a couple of hours, you will have an additional acclimatization hike up to 300 m towards Barafu and go back to the camp. The ascent from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp: Elevations: Barranco Camp (3970 m) – Karanga Camp (3995 m).Trekking distance: 5 km. Duration of trekking: 4-5 hours. Acclimatization hike: Elevations: Karanga Camp (3995 m) – Setpoint (4270 m).Trekking distance: 2,5 km. The ascent from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp: Elevations: Karanga Camp (3995 m) – Barafu Camp (4673m).Trekking distance: 6 km. Duration of trekking: 4-5 hours. Acclimatization hike: Elevations: Barafu Camp (4673 m) – Kosovo set point (4800 m). Trekking distance: 2 km. Duration of trekking: 1-2 hours.
Overnight in Barranco Camp.
Day 5 : Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp (Hiking 11Km – 8/10Hrs)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Barafu Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early wakeup, breakfast and the start of summiting Barranco Wall (we recommend you leave the camp as early as possible to avoid crowds of the other groups). Hiking up the gorge wall is not difficult and only takes around an hour. After the climb, you can have a rest and take photos in front of the Kibo volcano. Then you start a more difficult hike to Karanga Camp, which features numerous ascents and descents during the route, but don't worry: our guides are experts at choosing an optimal pace for the group. After reaching the camp you will be offered warm lunch. After a couple of hours, you will have to complete ascend to Barafu Camp (4,640 m) where you will be served a hot dinner. It is better to spend the remainder of the day resting and sleeping before night summiting. Change in Elevation: Barranco Camp (3,960 m) — Barafu Camp (4,640 m). Hiking distance: 11 km. Hiking time: 8–10 hours.
Overnight in Barafu Camp.
Day 6 : Ascent Uhuru Peak – Descent Millennium Camp (Hiking 15Km – 8/12Hrs)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Millenium Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departure from Barafu Camp (4,640 m) at night and the start of summiting Kilimanjaro: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Technically the climb is relatively simple; however, the most challenging part is the high altitude. Each pair of climbers will get a personal guide for the entire ascent to monitor your physical and mental conditions. After your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak, you can descend to the nearest glacier if desired. Then you will return to Barafu Camp and after a 2-hour rest continue your descent to Millennium Camp (3,820 m). Change in Elevation: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Millennium Camp (3,820 m). Hiking distance: 15 km. Hiking time: 8–12 hours.
Overnight in Millenium Camp.
Day 7 : Descent Millennium Camp – Mweka Gate (Hiking 12Km – 4/5Hrs) – Arusha Area
Location: Arusha
Accommodation Name: Onsea House or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
The camp is situated in a tropical rainforest. When you wake up, you will feel relief from the reduction of the height and the satisfaction of reaching the summit. After a warm breakfast, you will head for the park's exit: Mweka Gate (1,650 m). After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you, followed by offering you a chance to share your opinions on the climb in the guestbook. Lastly, we will present you with your commemorative certificates in our office and provide you with a transfer back to the hotel. Change in Elevation: Millennium Camp (3,820 m) – Mweka Gate (1,650 m). Hiking distance: 12 km. Hiking time: 4–5 hours.
Overnight in Arusha area.
Day 8 : Arusha Area – Departure Kilimanjaro (45Km – 1Hr)
Location: Arusha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Indulge in a tasty breakfast and then transfer to the airport. Please note that the hotel check-out is at 11:00 am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee (available as an optional extra).
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with English- and German-speaking professional mountain crew. All guides have 'Wilderness First Responder' and 'Wilderness First Aid' certificates, along with over 7 years of experience in climbing.
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Accommodation
2 nights hotel accommodation and 5 nights camp accommodation.
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Meals
3 square meals daily on the mountain, including a variety of soups, garnishes, fish, meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables. Breakfasts at the hotel before and after the ascent.
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Transport
Arrival and departure shared transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle from/to Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to the trailhead, and transfer to the hotel.
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Entrance Fees & Activities
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, including various hikes from Machame Gate to Mweka Gate.
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Other
Meet & Greet at Kilimanjaro International Airport, porter for each participant, Kilimanjaro National Park permits and rescue fees, camping/hut fees, modern tents, oxygen systems, first aid kit, sleeping pads, group equipment, meeting the group at the National Park exit, international certificates for a successful ascent, expanded ration, sleeping bags, satellite phone, portable toilet and shower, and mountaineering insurance up to 6,000 meters.
What's Not Included
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included in the tour package.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Meals at Hotel
Lunch and dinner at the hotel before and after the ascent are not included.
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Personal Gear Rentals
Rentals for personal gear are not included.
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Tips
Tips for the mountain crew are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
, is not included.
Requirements
Passengers arriving in Tanzania may be asked to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. Travellers’ cheques are generally not accepted in East Africa. US banknotes cannot be older than 2004 and must have the latest security markings (large portrait of the president).
KIT LIST:
- Small backpack (20–40 litres) for your daily necessities
- Large duffel bag for your belongings, which will be carried by a porter (80–120 litres)
- Sleeping bag (designed for up to -15°C)
- Rain poncho, a water-proof covering for your backpack
- Hiking boots with a water-repellent layer and good protector
- Gym shoes for the first days of the climb and to change at the camp
- Hiking pants for the first days of the climb (2 pairs)
- Waterproof pants
- Warm ski pants (designed for -15°C)
- T-shirts, long sleeve shirts (4–5 pieces)
- Soft-shell or fleece jacket
- Windproof jacket
- Insulated jacket for -15°C is an absolute necessity for the final ascent to the summit
- Thermal underwear for active sports (preferably 2 pairs)
- Light trekking gloves
- Mittens/gloves designed for -15°C for the final ascent to the summit
- Hiking socks (4–5 pairs)
- Gaiters for protection against dust/snow
- Cap/Panama hat/hat to protect your face and neck against the equatorial sun
- Fleece hat
- Balaclava for wind protection during the final summit ascent
- Alpine sunglasses or googles
- Headlamp + extra batteries
- Trekking poles
- Water flasks (2 litres in total); the flask may be substituted by a water bladder installed in your backpack
- SPF 40-50+ sunblock
- Lip balm
- Towel, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush
- Personal medication in case of a chronic disease
- Snacks and energy bars, chocolate and nuts
Please Note
- On Day 1, the check-in starts from 02:00 pm
- On the last day, the check-out is at 11:00 am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee (available as an optional extra)
- There is no guarantee that you will be part of a group, or part of the same group during the tour
- Please note that if you select the Extra Acclimatization Night, the services will be moved one day ahead
- On your first day at this altitude, it is strongly recommended that you heed the following instructions from this point on (1) Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine (2) Drink over 4 litres of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently). At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness
- Day 3: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness
- Day 4: If one or more participants feel sick, the group may refrain from passing the Lava Tower and adjust the route, following instead the road for porters. In this case, you will not reach an altitude of 4,630 meters, getting up only to a maximum of 4,400 meters
- Day 6: 90% of all accidents occur during descent. Please pay attention to your feet, as there is a high risk of damaging your toenails
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
- In many hotels in Tanzania, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 7 Arusha area
- Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*
Day 2 Machame Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 3 Shira Camp
- Superior Hotel Category= Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 4 Barranco Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 5 Barafu Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 6 Millenium Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
OPTIONAL EXTRA
Post-night Arusha area
- Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 7 Arusha area
- Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*
Day 2 Machame Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 3 Shira Camp
- Superior Hotel Category= Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 4 Barranco Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 5 Barafu Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
Day 6 Millenium Camp
- Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar
OPTIONAL EXTRA
Post-night Arusha area
- Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with shared transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel, and to the trailhead, ensuring a smooth start and end to your trekking adventure.
Accommodation
Enjoy a blend of comfort and adventure with 2 nights in a superior hotel in the Arusha area and 5 nights camping in superior tents at various camps along the Machame Route, ensuring a restful experience amidst the stunning landscapes.
Check out our Q&As
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What languages do the tour guides speak?
The tour is operated with English- and German-speaking professional mountain crew.
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What kind of experience do the guides have?
All guides have 'Wilderness First Responder' and 'Wilderness First Aid' certificates, along with over 7 years of experience in climbing.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the climb?
The tour includes 2 nights of hotel accommodation and 5 nights of camp accommodation. The camps are equipped with superior tents or standard camps.
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What meals are provided during the tour?
Three square meals are provided daily on the mountain, including a variety of soups, garnishes, fish, meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables. Juices, hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and water are also included. Breakfasts are provided at the hotel before and after the ascent.
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What is included in the transport arrangements for the tour?
Transport includes arrival and departure shared transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle from/to Kilimanjaro International Airport, as well as transfers to the trailhead and hotel.
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What kind of support is available during the climb?
Each participant will be provided with a porter who can carry up to 15 kg of personal baggage. The tour also includes oxygen systems, pulse oximeters, a first aid kit, and a satellite phone for uninterrupted contact with the support team.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?
Exclusions include visa fees, domestic and international flights, lunch and dinner at the hotel before and after the ascent, personal gear rentals, tips for the mountain crew, and travel insurance.
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What is the itinerary for the ascent to Uhuru Peak?
The ascent to Uhuru Peak begins at night from Barafu Camp (4,640 m) and reaches Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). After the ascent, climbers descend to Millennium Camp (3,820 m). The total hiking distance is 15 km, taking approximately 8-12 hours.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Tuesday
Dec 24, 2024 - Dec 31, 2024Wednesday - Wednesday
Dec 25, 2024 - Jan 01, 2025Thursday - Thursday
Dec 26, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025Friday - Friday
Dec 27, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025Sunday - Sunday
Dec 29, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025Monday - Monday
Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 06, 2025Tuesday - Tuesday
Dec 31, 2024 - Jan 07, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
ARP Travel Group requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of arp travel group charges.
At 24 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.