Climb to the Top of Africa: Kilimanjaro Group Tour – Machame Route Safaris

9 Days
From $2,585
Activity Level
Light
Transport
4x4 Land Cruiser
Comfort Level
Luxury

Trip Overview

Highlights of the Kilimanjaro Group Tour – Machame Route Safaris:

Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania – Start your journey in Tanzania and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

Day 2: Trip to Machame Camp – Begin your trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and set up camp at Machame Camp.

Day 3: Heading to Shira Camp – Continue your climb and set up camp at Shira Camp.

Day 4: Journey to Barranco Camp – Trek to Barranco Camp and enjoy the stunning views of the mountain.

Day 5: Karanga Camp – Head to Karanga Camp and prepare for the final push to the summit.

Day 6: Head to Barafu Camp – Make your way to Barafu Camp and rest for the night before the summit.

Day 7: The Kilimanjaro summit – Reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Africa.

Day 8: Return to Arusha – Descend the mountain and return to Arusha for a well-deserved rest.

Day 9: Tour ends – The tour ends and it’s time to say goodbye to Tanzania and the memories of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

This Kilimanjaro group tour is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with a group of like-minded individuals. The Machame route is a popular and challenging route that offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding wilderness. The tour includes a professional guide, accommodation, meals, and transportation, so you can focus on the climb and enjoy the experience.

Itinerary

Embark on an Adventure of a Lifetime: Day 1 - Welcome to Tanzania

On Day 1 of your tour, you will be welcomed to Tanzania and begin your adventure of a lifetime. After being picked up from Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be taken to the lodge of your choice. This is where you will spend your first night and get settled in before starting your tour.

The lodge offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation, as well as stunning views of the surrounding area. You will have the opportunity to relax and unwind before starting your tour.

At the lodge, there are a variety of activities that you can engage in at an extra cost. These activities include hiking, bird watching, and cultural tours. You can also visit the local markets and explore the nearby towns and villages.

If you prefer, you can also explore the city of Arusha. This city is the gateway to many of Tanzania’s national parks and is known for its vibrant culture and history. You can visit the local markets, museums, and cultural centers, and learn more about the history and culture of Tanzania.

In conclusion, Day 1 of your tour is the perfect opportunity to get settled in and start exploring the surrounding area. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation and a variety of activities, and you can also explore the nearby towns and villages or the city of Arusha. This is the start of an adventure of a lifetime, and you are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Planet Lodge
The Climb Begins: Day 2 - Trip to Machame Camp

On Day 2 of your tour, you will begin your climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. You will head to the western side of the mountain where the Machame gate is located. After completing the necessary paperwork, you will begin your hike through the tropical rainforest.

The hike to Machame camp will take approximately 5 hours, and during this time, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of tropical birds and monkeys. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the surrounding rainforest.

When you reach Machame camp, you will have the opportunity to set up your tent and get settled in. The camp offers comfortable and well-maintained facilities, including mess tents where your meals will be served.

Every evening, there will be a briefing where you will receive important information about the next day’s climb. You will also have your oxygen and heart rate level measured to ensure that you are healthy and fit for the next day’s climb.

In conclusion, Day 2 of your tour is the start of your climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. You will hike through the tropical rainforest, see a variety of wildlife, and set up camp at Machame camp. The camp offers comfortable facilities, and you will receive important information and health checks every evening to ensure that you are fit and healthy for the next day’s climb.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Machame gate at 1800m to Machame Camp at 3000m
Reaching New Heights: Day 3 - Hiking to Shira Camp

On Day 3 of your tour, you will continue your climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro as you head to Shira Camp. The hike will take you through the last part of the rainforest on the slopes of the mountain. It is a steep climb that will take approximately 3-4 hours, so it is important to take careful and slow steps.

After a break for lunch, you will continue on the final 1.5 hours of moderate up and down movement through the trail. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, and when you reach Shira Camp, you will be able to catch glimpses of Mt Meru and the Kilimanjaro summits.

If you are not yet worn out from the hike, you can explore the nearby Shira cave, which is only a 15-minute distance from the camp. The cave is an interesting feature that is worth visiting.

It is important to note that during the night, temperatures drop frequently below 0 degrees Celsius so it is important to carry warm clothes. The camp offers comfortable facilities and your guide will be on hand to assist you with anything you need.

In conclusion, Day 3 of your tour is a challenging hike that will take you through the last part of the rainforest on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The steep climb is worth the effort as you will be rewarded with beautiful views and the opportunity to explore the nearby Shira cave. Be prepared for the drop in temperatures during the night and carry warm clothes.

 

 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Machame gate at 1800m to Machame Camp at 3000m
Adventuring to New Heights: Day 4 - Trekking to Barranco Camp

On Day 4 of your tour, you will begin your journey to Barranco Camp. The hike will take you through a variety of landscapes, from the moorlands to the Alpine desert. The trail is dusty from the many stones along the way, so it is important to wear appropriate footwear.

It is important to keep in mind that the climb is to a higher altitude and the distance is long, so you may experience altitude sickness such as dizziness, nausea, or severe headaches. It is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

After 4-5 hours of hiking, you will reach the Lava Tower at an altitude of 4630 meters. Upon arrival, it is important to rest for about ½ hour so your body can get used to the high altitude. You will have lunch and then continue on a 2-3 hour hike to Barranco Camp at an altitude of 3840 meters.

The camp offers comfortable facilities and your guide will be on hand to assist you with anything you need. It is important to stay hydrated and rest as much as possible to prepare for the next day’s climb.

In conclusion, Day 4 of your tour is a challenging hike that will take you through a variety of landscapes and to a higher altitude. The hike is long and it is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Be prepared for the potential effects of altitude sickness and stay hydrated and rested. Barranco Camp offers comfortable facilities and is the perfect place to prepare for the next day’s climb.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Shira Camp at 3900m via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Acclimatizing to New Altitudes: Day 5 - Adjustment Day at Karanga Camp

On Day 5 of your tour, you will have an adjustment day at Karanga Camp. The main goal of the day is to conquer the steep 260-meter high Great Barranco Wall, which is a challenging and fun climb that requires the use of your hands and feet.

Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Karanga Valley. The climb will take approximately 1.5 hours, and upon arrival at Karanga Camp, you will have the opportunity to relax and unwind in your already pitched tents.

This is an important day as it allows you to acclimatize to the higher altitude and prepare for the next stage of the climb. You will have the opportunity to rest and recover, and your guide will be on hand to assist you with anything you need.

In conclusion, Day 5 of your tour is an adjustment day at Karanga Camp. The main goal of the day is to conquer the steep Great Barranco Wall, which is a challenging and fun climb. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Karanga Valley. The camp offers comfortable facilities and it is an important day for acclimatizing to the higher altitude and preparing for the next stage of the climb.

 

 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Barranco Camp at 3840m to Karanga camp at 3995m
Summit Preparation: Day 6 - Hiking to Barafu Camp

On Day 6 of your tour, you will head to Barafu Camp. The hike from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp will take approximately 3 hours. Once you reach Barafu Camp, you will know that you only have one day left to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

This is an important day for preparation as you will need to rest and gear up for the final climb to the summit. Dinner will be served early, around 5:30 PM, so that you can go to sleep early. The plan is to start your hike to the summit around midnight, when the weather is cooler and the trail is less crowded.

Barafu camp offers comfortable facilities and your guide will be on hand to assist you with anything you need. It is important to stay hydrated and rest as much as possible to prepare for the final climb to the summit.

In conclusion, Day 6 of your tour is an important day for preparation as you hike from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. Once you reach Barafu Camp, you will know that you only have one day left to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The camp offers comfortable facilities, and it is important to rest, gear up, and stay hydrated to prepare for the final climb to the summit.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Karanga Camp at 3995m to Barafu Camp at 4550m
Reaching the Summit: Day 7 - The Final Climb to the Top of Kilimanjaro

On Day 7 of your tour, you will make the final climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. A few minutes before midnight, you will be woken up and served a cup of tea before you start the slow but steady hike to the summit.

The hike will take approximately 6-7 hours on a steep ascending trail. You will reach Stella Point at an altitude of 5685 meters just in time to see the sunrise over Mawenzi peak. After an hour of hiking over the glacier and Caldera, you will reach the highest point in Africa, Uhuru peak, at 5895 meters above sea level.

This is the moment you have been waiting for, and it is important to take photos and rest after basking in the glory of being up here to have all the views below you. Soon after, you will begin your descent and it will take approximately 3-4 hours back to Barafu camp for lunch and rest. You will then continue for 3-4 hours through the Mweka Camp at 3100 meters to the last camp on your adventure. It is important to rest and prepare for the next day’s descent.

In conclusion, Day 7 of your tour is the final climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The hike will take approximately 6-7 hours on a steep ascending trail. You will reach Stella Point at an altitude of 5685 meters just in time to see the sunrise over Mawenzi peak. After an hour of hiking over the glacier and Caldera, you will reach the highest point in Africa, Uhuru peak, at 5895 meters above sea level. The camp offers comfortable facilities and it is important to rest and prepare for the next day’s descent.

 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp at 4550m, via the summit 5895m to Mweka
Descending the Mountain: Day 8 - Returning to Arusha

On Day 8 of your tour, you will be returning to Arusha after completing the climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. This will be your last day on the trails. After 3 hours of descending to Mweka gate, you will have one last meal with the expedition team and fellow hikers before returning to Arusha.

After a long and challenging climb, it will be a relief to finally take a hot bath and return to a warm bed in your lodge. You will have the opportunity to rest, relax, and reflect on the incredible journey you have just completed.

The day will be filled with mixed emotions as you say goodbye to your fellow hikers and the expedition team. You will be proud of what you have accomplished, and you will have memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, Day 8 of your tour is the return to Arusha. After 3 hours of descending to Mweka gate, you will have one last meal with the expedition team and fellow hikers before returning to Arusha. After a long and challenging climb, it will be a relief to finally take a hot bath and return to a warm bed in your lodge. You will have the opportunity to rest, relax, and reflect on the incredible journey you have just completed.

 

 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mweka camp 3100m to Mweka gate at 1800m
Farewell and Departure: Day 9 - The End of the Tour

On Day 9 of your tour, it is time to say farewell and depart. Depending on what time your international flight out of the local airport is, you may have the opportunity to take part in an optional activity to end the safari.

You may choose to spend the morning exploring Arusha city, shopping for souvenirs, or visiting local markets. Alternatively, you may choose to relax at your lodge, reflecting on your incredible journey and the memories you have made.

If you do not want the tour to end and would like to continue exploring Africa, inform your AA Safaris tour consultant to book you another tour in another destination. The options are endless and the tour consultant will be happy to help you plan your next adventure.

In conclusion, Day 9 of your tour is the end of the tour and it is time to say farewell and depart. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have the opportunity to take part in an optional activity to end the safari or you may inform your AA Safaris tour consultant to book you another tour in another destination in Africa.

 

Meals included: Breakfast Only
Accommodation: No accmmodation

Expectations

The Serengeti Migration Tour is an unforgettable adventure that will take you on a journey through one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. The tour focuses on the annual migration of 2 million ungulates and a population of predators in the Serengeti.

The tour begins with a visit to the Seronera area, where you will have the opportunity to see the big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as a wide variety of other wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to see the wildebeest migration, which is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world.

As the tour progresses, you will move on to the Lamai Wedge and the Mara River, where you will have the opportunity to see the wildebeest crossing the river. This is an incredible sight and a highlight of the tour.

The tour also includes a visit to the Ndutu area, where you will have the opportunity to see the calving of the wildebeest and the arrival of the predators. This is a truly magical experience and one that you will never forget.

Throughout the tour, you will stay in the region’s best mid-range and semi-luxury accommodation. These lodges and camps offer comfortable and luxurious accommodation, as well as stunning views of the Serengeti.

In conclusion, the Serengeti Migration Tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness the annual migration of 2 million ungulates and a population of predators in the Serengeti. The tour offers a combination of nature, wildlife, and luxury accommodation, making it the perfect way to experience one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure.

Accomodations

Planet Lodge
Located in the heart of Arusha, Planet Lodge is a serene oasis surrounded by the natural beauty of the Tanzanian landscape. Our unique African village-style accommodations provide a peaceful sanctuary for guests to relax and reconnect with nature. Each room is designed to reflect the natural surroundings and offer a true sense of tranquility. Come and experience the beauty and culture of Tanzania at Planet Lodge.
Machame gate at 1800m to Machame Camp at 3000m
Nestled in the rolling grasslands overlooking Lake Manyara National Park, this charming camp offers guests both comfort and privacy. Each room is equipped with a large bed, en-suite bathroom and private balcony. Guests can take a refreshing dip in the inviting outdoor pool and enjoy the stunning sunset with a cold drink on the veranda. The camp also boasts a lovely swimming pool, perfect for relaxing and taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
Machame gate at 1800m to Machame Camp at 3000m
Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, situated near the new Sangaiwe gate to Tarangire National Park, offers breathtaking views of Lake Buringi. This luxury tented accommodation, great service and fresh food make it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful Tanzanian landscape. Enhance your safari experience by joining us on your visit to Tarangire on the northern circuit in Tanzania. Our eco-friendly wood and canvas tents with solar hot water provide comfortable accommodation with all the necessary amenities and no unnecessary frills.
Shira Camp at 3900m via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Barranco Camp at 3840m to Karanga camp at 3995m
Karanga Camp at 3995m to Barafu Camp at 4550m
Barafu Camp at 4550m, via the summit 5895m to Mweka
At Country Lodge, guests will find themselves surrounded by elegance and comfort in the tastefully furnished rooms. The soft lighting, inviting beds and mosquito netting create a warm and inviting ambiance. For those chilly nights, guests can request that their fireplace be lit, ensuring a cozy and warm return from dinner.
Mweka camp 3100m to Mweka gate at 1800m

Availability and Prices

Feb 4 - 12, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Feb 18 - 26, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Jun 2 - 10, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Jul 7 - 15, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Jul 14 - 22, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Jul 21 - 29, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Jul 28 - Aug 5, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Aug 11 - 19, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Aug 25 - Sep 2, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Aug 31 - Sep 8, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Sep 13 - 20, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Sep 20 - 28, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Sep 29 - Oct 7, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Oct 6 - 14, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Oct 13 - 21, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Nov 16 - 24, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Dec 13 - 21, 2020
Double Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Single Occupancy
$ 2,585
Per Person
Included
  • Transfers upon arrival and departure
  • Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Daily activities and excursions as indicated in the itinerary
Excluded
  • All gratuities
  • Airfare to and from destination
  • Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Alcoholic beverages