Climb Kilimanjaro: The Machame Route

Standing sentinel over Tanzania’s vast living landscape is dark, snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro — its presence beautiful, serene, yet foreboding. “Kili” is the tallest peak in Africa and the largest free-standing mountain in the world, which makes climbing it a classic adventure by any measure. Settle into your hotel on the outskirts of Arusha National Park and enjoy a good night's rest as one of only 12 guests on this epic journey.

Awaken early to a piping-hot cup of coffee or tea. As you leave camp, absorb the commanding view of Uhuru Peak. Trek out of the forest up to the hagenia zone (upper limit of forest growth) through a savanna of tall grasses and haunting volcanic lava landscapes. After a six-hour hike, arrive at the Shira Plateau and your camp. At 12,500 feet, it boasts sweeping views across the Maasai Steppe to distant Mount Meru and the Shira Needles.

Take a three-to-four-hour trek on another day of acclimatization as you near the mountain's peak, stopping at Kosovo Camp (15,980 feet), located in an alpine desert at times swept by strong winds and yet, in the evening, yielding splendid views of Mawenzi, Mount Kilimanjaro's second highest summit. Turn in early this evening — tomorrow, you make an early start for the summit.

Continue your descent to the base of the mountain, walking for two to three hours, to rendezvous with your A&K driver, who greets and transports you back to Arusha. During a farewell dinner, celebrate your accomplishment with your fellow guests.