Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your guide for a briefing, check your gear, and prepare for your self-supported trek.
Register at Machame Gate (1,790m) and start trekking through rainforest. Carry your own gear and set up camp at Machame Camp (3,010m). Trek duration: 5–6 hours.
Climb a steep ridge into the moorland zone. Trek across Shira Plateau and set up camp at Shira Camp (3,840m). Manage your own gear and meals.
Acclimatization day: climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) then descend to Barranco Camp (3,950m). Carry your own food, water, and tents.
Climb the Barranco Wall and continue through valleys to Karanga Camp (4,035m). Shorter day to aid acclimatization while carrying your own gear.
Hike to Barafu Camp (4,680m). Prepare for summit night, carrying all personal gear and food.
Start around midnight to reach Stella Point (5,756m) and continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Descend to Barafu for rest, then continue to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Manage your own gear throughout.
Final descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate. Celebrate your self-supported climb and transfer back to Moshi for rest or onward travel.
The 7-day Machame Self-Supported trek offers the best acclimatization, stunning scenery, and independence for experienced trekkers. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the adventure carrying your own gear.