7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Machame Route
The Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its stunning views, varied landscapes, and diverse ecosystems. Often referred to as the “Whiskey Route” (in contrast to the easier “Coca-Cola Route”), it is considered more challenging due to its steeper terrain. However, it offers a higher success rate compared to some other routes, thanks to better acclimatization opportunities.
Itinerary
Our carefully designed itinerary outlines each day of your journey in detail, ensuring a seamless travel experience. From arrival to departure, every step has been thoughtfully planned to maximize comfort, discovery, and value.
Today, you'll receive an essential climbing briefing at your hotel, where we'll go over important details to ensure a safe and successful climb. We'll also conduct a thorough check of your climbing gear to make sure you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: On your own arrangement
Elevation: 1200m to 1700m to 3000m.
Distance: 13 km.
Hiking time: 5-7 hours.
Habitat: Montane forest
Your climb begins with a scenic drive from your hotel to Marangu Gate, located on Kilimanjaro’s southeastern side. After completing registration and a briefing, your adventure starts as you trek through the dense rainforest, where you’ll encounter vibrant birds, playful colobus monkeys, and lush vegetation. The well-maintained trail gradually ascends to Mandara Hut, where you'll spend your first night on the mountain. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a short walk to Maundi Crater, offering breathtaking panoramic views of northern Tanzania.
Elevation: 3,000 m to 3,850 m
Distance: 9km
Hiking time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland.
Today, you’ll trek from Machame Camp to Shira Camp, covering 5-6 km (3-4 miles) in 4-6 hours. The path ascends through the moorland zone, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape and Kilimanjaro’s glaciers as you gain elevation. By the time you reach Shira Camp at 3,850 meters (12,631 feet), you’ll be above the tree line, surrounded by stunning vistas of the Shira Plateau. The rest of the day is dedicated to resting and acclimatizing to the higher altitude.
Elevation: 3,500 m to 3,960 m.
Distance: 13km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland.
You’ll trek from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp, covering 10 km (6.2 miles) in 5-7 hours. The trail ascends through the Shira Plateau before passing the Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descends to Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters (12,992 feet). The day offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding valleys, and the descent to Barranco Camp aids in altitude adjustment. It’s a challenging but rewarding day, with plenty of time to rest and acclimatize at the camp.
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035 m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
Habitat: Moorland
Today, you’ll trek from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp, covering 5 km (3.1 miles) in 4-5 hours. The day begins with the steep Barranco Wall, a challenging scramble, followed by a series of ups and downs along ridges to Karanga Camp at 4,035 meters (13,267 feet). Although the day is relatively short, the terrain is demanding, and the altitude requires careful pacing. The camp offers stunning views of the mountain and provides an ideal spot for acclimatization.
Elevation: 3900m to 4620m.
Distance: 8 km.
Hiking time: 3-4 hours.
Habitat: Alpine Desert.
Today, you’ll trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, covering 4 km (2.5 miles) in 4-5 hours. The trail is steep and rocky, leading you through alpine desert terrain as you gain elevation. By the time you reach Barafu Camp at 4,640 meters (15,223 feet), you’ll be preparing for the summit attempt. The camp offers stunning views, but it can be cold and windy, so it’s important to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the challenging summit push the following day.
Elevation: 4, 620 m to 5,895 m to 3,100 m
Distance: 15km
Hiking time: 10 – 12 hours
Habitat: Desert and ice.
On this day, you’ll make your summit push from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro, in a challenging 12-14 hour trek. Starting around midnight, you’ll ascend through steep, rocky terrain to reach the summit by sunrise, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views. After celebrating at Uhuru Peak, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for the night. The day is physically demanding but rewarding, marking the culmination of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Elevation: 3100m to 1700m
Distance: 9km
Descending time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane forest.
Today, you’ll complete your Kilimanjaro trek by descending from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, a 10 km (6.2 miles) trek through lush rainforest that takes about 3-4 hours. After signing out at the gate, you’ll receive a certificate to commemorate your achievement. You’ll then drive back to the hotel. It’s a relaxed day, giving you a chance to reflect on your successful ascent.
Group Price / Rates Per Person
| Solo | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People | 5 People | 6+ People |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2869 | $2391 | $2308 | $2258 | $2225 | $2202 |
Includes
- All Transfers
- Accommodation as per Itinerary
- Meals
- Unlimited Water during the trekking
- Coffees, tea, hot chocolate, and Soft Drinks
- Free WI-FI
- Government Taxes and levy
- All ground Handling and assistance
- Hiking & Safety Equipments
- Climbing Crew
Excludes
- International Flights
- Travel & Mountaineering insurance
- Tips for Guides & Crew
- Personal expenses such as calls, laundry, and extra drinks at the lodge
- Portable toilets (if required - 250 USD per unit, one can be shared between 3-4 people)
