Mt Kilimanjaro Climb - Machame

10 days - from $3055

Mount Kilimanjaro is a magical mountain, with diverse vegetation and superb views from the summit

Mount 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 5895 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 height, 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.

Highlights

• Climb Mt Kilimanjaro - Africa's highest peak

Itinerary:

Day 1: Nairobi2: Machame Village - Moshi3: Machame Hut4: Shira Hut5: Barranco Hut6: Karanga Valley7: Barafu Hut8: Summit day9: Machame Village - Moshi10: Arusha or Nairobi
Included:

A specialist local mountain guide, services of porters/cook on mountain climb, arrival transfer, accommodation, transport and entrance fees.

International flights, airport departure taxes, visas, meals unless specified in the itinerary, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.

This trip spends 7 days in Kilimanjaro National Park.

You may choose to finish your safari in Arusha on Day 10. This tour is available as a 9-day trip starting and ending at Kilimanjaro Airport.