Elevation: 1830 meters to 3100 meters Distance: 18 kilometers Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours Habitat: Montane Forest The drive from Arusha to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes about 50 minutes. The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. You now leave the park gate and walk through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. Lower down, the trail can be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. You continue a short distance until you reach the Machame Camp where you will overnight at.