From Moshi in Tanzania: 13 Days Group Budget Safari and Machame Route Kilimanjaro

Moshi to Machame Gate 1,800 m to Machame Camp 2,835 m

Elevation (ft): 1,800 m to 2,835 m

Distance: 11 km

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Habitat: Montane Forest/Rainforest

Accommodations: Machame Camp

Meals: Full Board

The trek begins at Machame Gate and enters the lush lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Walking through dense rainforest, you will experience rich flora, birdlife, and small wildlife. The gradual ascent allows the body to acclimatize while offering stunning views of the mountain’s lower slopes. On a clear day, the first sight of Kibo’s glaciated dome appears above the clouds as you reach Machame Camp.

Machame Camp (2,835) m to Shira Cave Camp (3,750 m)

Elevation (ft): 2,835 m to 3,750 m

Distance: 5 km

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Accommodations: Shira Cave Camp

Meals: Full Board

Today’s hike is shorter but steeper, beginning with a climb to the semi-circular Picnic Site ridge. The route then continues gently through the lower alpine moorland, famous for its colorful wildflowers. The open landscape provides panoramic views of Kibo, giving climbers a sense of the mountain’s scale. Shira Cave Camp, set in this vast terrain, offers a spectacular sunset over the peaks.

Shira Cave Camp 3,750 m to Barranco Camp 3,900 m via Lava Tower 4,600 m

Elevation (ft): 3,750 m to 3,900 m

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Accommodations: Barranco Camp

Meals: Full Board

The day begins with a steady ascent across the southwest slopes of Kilimanjaro, passing below the imposing Lava Tower. After reaching the bottom of the tower at 4,600 m and enjoying a hot lunch, you descend into the Barranco Valley. The trail offers exceptional views of the Western Breach and surrounding valleys. The hike ends at Barranco Camp, nestled in a peaceful valley with views of the Barranco Wall.

Barranco Camp 3,900 m to Karanga Camp 3,995 m

Elevation (ft): 3,900 m to 3,995 m

Distance: 6 km

Hiking Time: 3.5–4 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Accommodations: Karanga Camp

Meals: Full Board

The day begins with a challenging climb up the eastern Barranco Wall, offering breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and rugged terrain. After scaling the wall, the trail continues through the Karanga Valley’s alpine desert. Climbers then face a final steep ascent to reach Karanga Camp, which sits in a scenic setting surrounded by sparse alpine vegetation.

Karanga Camp 3,995 m to Barafu Camp 4,673 m

Elevation (ft): 3,995 m to 4,673 m

Distance: 4 km

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodations: Barafu Camp

Meals: Full Board

A short but steep climb leads out of Karanga Camp, transitioning into a dry, rocky alpine desert. The trail becomes easier along compacted scree, offering wide-open views of Kibo and Mawenzi. Barafu Camp is situated near the base of the final ascent route, providing climbers with time to rest, enjoy lunch, and prepare mentally and physically for the summit attempt.

Barafu Camp (4,673 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) to Mweka Camp (3,100 m)

Elevation (ft): 4,673 m to 5,895 m via Stella Point 5,756 m

Distance: 4.3 km ascent to Stella Point / 5 km Barafu to Uhuru Peak

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours ascent / 7–8 hours descent

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Wake up before midnight for the final ascent. Trek slowly over loose volcanic scree towards Stella Point, pausing to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are able can continue along the crater rim to Africa’s highest point, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). After savoring your achievement, descend via Barafu to Mweka Camp, passing through stunning high-altitude desert landscapes.

Mweka Camp (3,100 m) to Mweka Gate (1,640 m)

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Habitat: Montane Forest

The final descent is a gentle walk through lush montane forest. At Mweka Gate, successful climbers receive summit certificates. After a celebratory lunch, drive to Moshi and check in at your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Transfer from Moshi to Arusha and Rest

After breakfast, depart from Moshi and enjoy a scenic drive to Arusha. Upon arrival, check in at your Hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may choose to relax at the hotel, explore nearby attractions, or prepare for the exciting safari adventure ahead.

Arusha to Tarangire National Park and overnight at Mto wa Mbu

Depart Arusha early and drive to Tarangire National Park. Explore its iconic baobab trees and termite mounds while spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, warthogs, ostriches, impalas, cheetahs, mongooses, buffaloes, and baboons. Conclude the day with transfer to Mto wa Mbu for a satisfying dinner and overnight stay.

Mto wa Mbu to Serengeti National Park

Travel towards the Serengeti National Park, passing the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a scenic kopje and an afternoon game drive exploring this iconic national park. Overnight at your campsite, where meals and camping facilities are provided.

Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater

Start the day with an early morning game drive in central Serengeti National Park, taking advantage of the soft sunrise light to spot predators and abundant plains wildlife. After your morning safari, drive toward the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Arrive at your Campsite and settle in for an evening surrounded by the serene beauty of the savannah.

Ngorongoro Crater to Mto wa Mbu

Begin the day with an early descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a picnic lunch amid spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Enjoy exceptional game viewing, with opportunities to spot the Big Five, hippos, zebras, wildebeests, and a variety of water birds. After your crater adventure, drive to Mto wa Mbu for dinner and overnight stay.

Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha

Start your day with an early morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Look out for tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, impalas, and over 400 species of birds. Enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes, from dense forests to expansive soda lakes, before driving back to Arusha. Overnight at your budget Hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s wildlife encounters.

Transfer to Arusha Airport / Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey. Conclude your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure with memories of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.