Ascent of Kilimanjaro via the Machame route and relaxation on Zanzibar
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration19 days
-
LevelAdvance
-
DestinationTanzania / Kilimanjaro
-
AgeFrom 16 - 80 years
-
CO₂-Emissions250.91 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
-
Languages
English
Spanish
French
In a few words
Embark on an exceptional Tanzanian adventure combining a high-altitude trek on Kilimanjaro with a beach holiday in Zanzibar . Following the Machame Route , one of the most spectacular treks in the massif, you'll traverse a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems : rainforest, high-altitude moorland, volcanic plateaus, and rocky slopes leading to the legendary Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) . Accompanied by experienced guides , this progressive trek offers a complete immersion in the world of Africa's highest peak, with breathtaking panoramas and the unique emotion of reaching the roof of the continent.
After the exertion, it's time to relax with a three-day extension in Zanzibar . The island reveals its white sand beaches lined with coconut palms and its turquoise lagoons , perfect for swimming, snorkeling or simply enjoying a soothing tropical setting.
Designed for travelers in good physical condition , this program combines adventure, nature, and relaxation in an ideal balance. Professional guidance , organized transfers , and accommodation in lodges or campsites ensure smooth logistics for fully experiencing this African adventure, a blend of sporting challenge and idyllic escape .
The highlights
-
Ascent of Kilimanjaro via the famous Machame route, mythical and spectacular
-
Local guides and professional porters for a safe and comfortable trek
-
Beach extension in Zanzibar: white sand beaches and turquoise waters
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
The participant regularly swims short distances (approximately 500m) in calm water and wishes to improve their technique and endurance. They are comfortable in the water but have not yet swum in the sea or in rougher conditions.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 9 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 917 m
- Average daily descent: 484 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Fitness
- Average duration/day: 2h
Canyoning
- Average duration/day: 5h
Management
English
Spanish
French
Dickson is an experienced mountain guide, specializing in leading high-altitude treks on Mount Kilimanjaro. Professional, attentive, and passionate about his work, he accompanies travelers throughout the ascent, ensuring their safety, comfort, and acclimatization.
Thanks to his extensive knowledge of routes, weather conditions, and altitude management, Dickson adapts the pace to the group's level and that of each participant. He pays particular attention to preventing altitude sickness and ensuring the overall well-being of the trekkers.
Known for his listening skills, teaching abilities and reassuring attitude, he also shares his knowledge of the environment, local culture and the mountains, making the experience safe, enriching and memorable.
The instructors are qualified swimming and open water professionals, capable of adapting the sessions to each participant's level. They ensure safety and provide technical advice to improve technique and endurance.
Program
-
Arrival in Arusha / Moshi
- Transportation Minibus - 08h - 20km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha. You will be met by your guide, transferred to your hotel, and given a full briefing on the Machame trek. You will then prepare your equipment and rest to begin your adventure. Overnight in Arusha or Moshi at a budget lodge.
Day 1 -
Machame Gate → Machame Camp
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The trek begins on the Machame road. The walk is moderate, along forest trails with a gradual ascent to begin acclimatization. Participants discover the local flora and fauna under the supervision of professional guides. The day ends at Machame camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2 -
Camp Machame → Camp Shira
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A moderate trek through mountain forests and volcanic landscapes. The gradual ascent allows for continued acclimatization to the altitude. Participants enjoy regular breaks to rest and admire the scenery. The day ends at Shira Camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3 -
Camp Shira → Camp Barranco (via Lava Tower)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Acclimatization day with an ascent to Lava Tower (4,600 m) before descending to Camp Barranco. Preparation for the more demanding stages of the trek. Overnight at Camp Barranco.
Day 4 -
Camp Barranco → Camp Karanga
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 150 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Climb the famous Barranco wall, then traverse the alpine pastures towards Camp Karanga. This stage allows for further acclimatization before the final ascent. Overnight at Camp Karanga.
Day 5 -
Camp Karanga → Camp Barafu
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 150 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Ascent to Barafu Camp, the starting point for the night climb. Rest and early dinner to prepare for the night climb. Overnight in tents at Barafu Camp.
Day 6 -
Summit and descent
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 10h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 1100 m
- Negative elevation 2000 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure very early (midnight) to reach the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Unique moment at the summit and descent to Camp Mweka. Dinner and well-deserved rest.
Day 7 -
Camp Mweka → Arusha / Flight to Zanzibar
- Transportation Plane - 10h - 550km
- Activity Fitness
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Final descent to Mweka Gate, then transfer to Arusha. Domestic flight to Zanzibar. Welcome and transfer to your beachfront hotel. Overnight at the Zanzibar Reef & Beach Resort.
Day 8 -
Zanzibar: beach relaxation and activities
- Activity Canyoning
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
A free day to enjoy the beach, the pool, and the turquoise waters. Optional activities include snorkeling, diving, or exploring the island. Overnight at the Zanzibar Reef & Beach Resort.
Day 9 -
Last morning in Zanzibar and departure
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Free morning to enjoy the beach and the hotel. Transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure flight. End of stay.
Days 10 to 19
Note
The program may vary slightly depending on flight schedules, weather, and the progress of the trek. All transfers and activities are supervised by experienced professionals to ensure your safety and comfort.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in spacious double tents with mattresses and blankets provided. The camp includes a shared dining area and basic sanitary facilities. Each stage of the trek is led by experienced guides and porters to ensure safety, comfort, and smooth organization. Meals are included and adapted to the altitude.
Beachfront hotel with air-conditioned double rooms and private bathrooms. Direct access to the beach and reef for swimming and snorkeling. Breakfast included. The hotel offers a relaxing setting after climbing Kilimanjaro and optional activities such as beach excursions, diving, or cultural tours.
Access
Go to the starting point
Arrivals and departures take place at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for the trekking part, and at Zanzibar International Airport – Abeid Amani Karume (ZNZ) for the beach extension.
Airport transfers to accommodations are arranged by us according to the flight schedules communicated in advance. It is recommended that you send us your flight details as soon as they are confirmed to ensure smooth logistics.
Price details
The price includes
- Airport pick-up and transfers (Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar)
- 2 nights in a hotel in Arusha/Moshi before and after the trek
- Ascent of Kilimanjaro via the Machame route (6 days)
- Certified mountain guides, cooks and porters
- All meals during the Kilimanjaro trek
- Camping equipment (tents, mattresses, mess tent)
- Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees
- Domestic flight Arusha – Zanzibar
- 2 nights in Zanzibar at the Reef & Beach Resort
The price does not include
- International flights
- Visa for Tanzania
- Drinks (excluding meals)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and porters
- Optional activities in Zanzibar
- Mandatory NIC Inbound Travel Insurance: USD 44 (approx. €39) per adult
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Camping tents, mattresses, meals during the trek, porters for transporting luggage, professional guides and supervision.
Equipment to bring
Trekking poles, backpack, water bottle or hydration pack, headlamp, personal first aid kit, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Clothing to bring
- For Kilimanjaro: technical clothing for trekking (breathable base layer, fleece, windproof/waterproof jacket, trekking pants, suitable socks, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sturdy hiking shoes).
- For Zanzibar: light and comfortable clothing, swimsuit, hat, sandals, sunscreen.
