Machame route Kilimanjaro climb

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa. It lies close to the equator, yet snow, ice and glaciers are to be found on its highest slopes. Soaring to the impressive altitude of 5,895 metres (19,350 feet), it provides incredible views of hundreds of square kilometres of surrounding countryside - thousands of feet below - as well as of the mountain peaks, valleys and glaciers around you.

The walk to the summit takes you through a number of distinctly different climatic and vegetation zones - from beautiful rainforest, to alpine moorland, to volcanic desert, to glaciers, ice and snow. (Indeed, even if you do not make it to the top, the scenic interest and rewards of the lower sections are considerable). No mountaineering experience is required; you are able to walk all the way. As you gain altitude, however, the going will seem tough at times - the increasing effect of altitude, and walking on scree slopes on the upper sections, mean that this is a far-from-easy undertaking. In addition, very cold conditions can be encountered on the higher slopes, and you must be adequately equipped with cold and wet weather clothing. However, if you walk slowly, even from the start at lower altitudes, have a good mental attitude and a reasonable degree of physical fitness, this will all help immeasurably. You will be accompanied by guides, and porters will help to carry your luggage. On the way up your nights are spent in tents, on the Machame route; however on the descent you join the Mweka route, spending one night in this area (but still using our own tents). The thrill of reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro gives one an unsurpassed sense of achievement. The Machame Route is a day longer than the standard trail - and we have added a further day to the standard itinerary - this provides important additional time for acclimatisation and may well increase your chances of summiting.