7 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking – Machame Route

7 Days from $1,700 per person

SAFARI OVERVIEW

Conquer Africa’s tallest peak through the most scenic route

The Machame Route is one of the most popular and visually stunning trekking routes to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers a challenging yet rewarding climb with breathtaking views, varied landscapes, and the highest summit success rate due to ideal acclimatization.

This 7-day Machame Route trek is designed for adventurers seeking both beauty and challenge. It includes rich rainforest trails, alpine deserts, rocky ridges, and glacier-filled summit views — all while enjoying professional mountain crew support, luxury mountain camping, and delicious meals.

Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a passionate traveler seeking your first summit, this iconic route delivers an unforgettable journey to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) – the highest point in Africa.

🌿 Trip Overview:

  • Route: Machame (Southwest Approach)
  • Duration: 7 Days on the Mountain / 9 Days Total
  • Altitude: 5,895m (19,341 ft) at Uhuru Peak
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Best Season: June to October & January to February
  • Accommodation: Signature luxury mountain camping + Pre/Post climb hotels
  • Group Size: Private & Group departures available

Pricing (Per Person):

Season Solo 2 Pax 4 Pax 6 Pax
Low Season
Mar – May
$1,964 $1,850 $1,750 $1,700
High Season
Jan–Feb, Nov–Dec 20
$2,068 $1,900 $1,800 $1,750
Peak Season
Jun–Oct, Dec 21–Jan 5
$2,298 $2,150 $1,900 $1,850

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, attend a detailed pre-climb briefing and gear check with your lead guide. This is your time to prepare, ask questions, and settle in before the adventure begins.

Accommodation Options:
Mount Meru Hotel / Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel / Kilimanjaro Coffee Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2: Arusha to Machame Gate – Hike to Machame Camp

After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate (1,800m), where your trekking adventure officially begins. Hike through lush rainforest teeming with monkeys and exotic birds before reaching Machame Camp.

  • Hiking Distance: ~6.5 km
  • Elevation Gain: 1,800m to 3,000m
  • Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: Machame Camp (3,000m)

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Today you ascend into the moorland zone, leaving the forest canopy behind. Enjoy wide-open views as you approach the Shira Plateau, with glimpses of Kibo Peak in the distance.

  • Hiking Distance: ~5 km
  • Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m
  • Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
  • Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: Shira Camp (3,840m)

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)

This is a vital acclimatization day. Climb high to Lava Tower (4,630m), then descend to Barranco Camp. The trek offers dramatic views and allows your body to adjust to altitude, increasing summit success chances.

  • Hiking Distance: ~10 km
  • Elevation Gain: 3,840m to 4,630m (Lava Tower), then down to 3,976m
  • Trekking Time: 6–8 hours
  • Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: Barranco Camp (3,976m)

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Tackle the thrilling Barranco Wall, then traverse a series of ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp. A short but scenic day to further acclimatize before summit night.

  • Hiking Distance: ~6 km
  • Elevation: 3,976m to 3,995m
  • Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: Karanga Camp (3,995m)

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Today you reach Barafu Camp – the final camp before your summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest up. You’ll begin your summit push around midnight.

  • Hiking Distance: ~4 km
  • Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
  • Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: Barafu Camp (4,673m)

Day 7: Summit to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp

The summit day begins before dawn. Trek in the dark to Stella Point, then onwards to Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa! After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp through the alpine and rainforest zones.

  • Hiking Distance: ~17 km (ascent + descent)
  • Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (summit), then down to 3,100m
  • Trekking Time: 12–14 hours
  • Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your official summit certificate. After farewells with your mountain crew, transfer to your luxury hotel in Arusha.

  • Elevation: 3,100m to 1,800m
  • Distance: 10 km | Time: 4–5 hours
  • Accommodation: Gran Meliá Arusha or Arusha Coffee Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Departure Day

Enjoy a relaxed morning, then transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. You leave with unforgettable memories and the pride of having conquered Kilimanjaro.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Safari Package Includes

💼 What’s Included

❌ What’s Not Included

Other Safari Tours