The Machame Route with an extra night at Karanga Camp. That single night raises summit success from roughly 73 to 85 percent, which is why it is the version we recommend to almost everyone.
11km through rainforest from 1,800m to 3,010m, 5 to 7 hours.
5km onto the Shira Plateau at 3,845m, 4 to 6 hours, with the first full view of Kibo.
Climb to 4,630m at Lava Tower, then descend to Barranco at 3,960m. The classic climb-high-sleep-low day.
Barranco Wall scramble then a short 5km day to Karanga at 3,995m, 4 to 5 hours. Afternoon rest, which is exactly what makes this route work.
4km across alpine desert to Barafu base camp at 4,673m, 4 to 5 hours. Early dinner, gear check and sleep by 19:00.
Depart at midnight for Stella Point at 5,756m and Uhuru Peak at 5,895m at sunrise. Descend to Barafu, rest, then continue to Mweka Camp at 3,100m.
Final descent through rainforest, summit certificates at the gate, transfer to Moshi.
Want this itinerary shifted a day, or a different lodge?
Every trip is private, so the plan is yours to change. Tell us what you would rather do.
It balances scenery, acclimatisation profile and cost better than any other option. The extra Karanga night is the single highest-value addition you can make to a Machame climb.
Camps range from 5C at night in the forest to minus 5C at Barafu. Summit night can hit minus 20C with wind chill. A minus 18C comfort-rated sleeping bag and proper layering are essential; we rent both.
The only route with permanent huts and beds rather than tents. Gentler gradients and a shared dining hall make it the most…
The western approach across the Shira Plateau. Quieter than Machame for the first three days, more remote in feel, and with an…
The highest success rate we offer on a standard route. Eight days gives the body time to adapt properly, with a Karanga rest…
