7 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

7 Days / 6 Nights Kilimanjaro National Park Machame Route Trek

Challenge yourself on Africa’s highest peak with the scenic Machame Route, known as the “Whiskey Route” for its adventurous spirit and stunning variety of landscapes. This 7-day trek offers a gradual ascent, maximizing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. Traverse lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, guided by experienced mountain teams who prioritize your safety and comfort. Each day brings new vistas, from the Shira Plateau to the dramatic Barranco Wall, culminating in a sunrise summit attempt. Enjoy hearty meals, camaraderie at camp, and the thrill of standing on the Roof of Africa. Perfect for fit trekkers seeking a rewarding, unforgettable adventure.

Route Overview

  • Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
  • Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
  • Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
  • Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
  • Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
  • Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) & Mweka Camp
  • Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (Descent)

Highlights

  • Summit Africa’s highest peak (5,895m)
  • Scenic Machame “Whiskey” Route
  • Expert mountain guides & support crew
  • Stunning landscapes: rainforest, moorland, glaciers
  • Gradual acclimatization for higher success
  • All camping equipment provided

Rates

From $2,150 per person (based on 2 people, low season).
Contact us for a personalized quote depending on group size and season.

  • High season rates may apply (June–Oct, Dec–Feb)
  • Discounts for larger groups available
  • Single supplement applies for solo trekkers

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) – Machame Camp (3,000m)

Meet your mountain crew at Machame Gate for registration and a trek briefing. Begin your ascent through lush rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail is often muddy but shaded, with a steady climb to Machame Camp. Arrive in the late afternoon, settle into your tent, and enjoy a hearty dinner as you acclimatize to the altitude. Overnight at Machame Camp.

Accommodation: Machame Camp (tented)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840m)

After breakfast, leave the rainforest behind and ascend into the moorland zone. The trail is steeper, with panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the Shira Plateau. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and arrive at Shira Camp by mid-afternoon. Take time to rest, hydrate, and explore the plateau’s unique flora. Dinner and overnight at Shira Camp.

Accommodation: Shira Camp (tented)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)

Today’s trek is crucial for acclimatization. Ascend gradually to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation, where you’ll have lunch at high altitude. Afterward, descend to Barranco Camp, passing through the beautiful Senecio forest. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust. Enjoy dinner and a restful night at Barranco Camp, with views of the Barranco Wall.

Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tented)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)

After breakfast, tackle the famous Barranco Wall—a fun, non-technical scramble with rewarding views. Continue along undulating trails to Karanga Camp, where you’ll arrive in time for lunch. The afternoon is free for rest and acclimatization. Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.

Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tented)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, leading you to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. Arrive by early afternoon, rest, and prepare your gear for the midnight ascent. Your guides will brief you on the summit push. Early dinner and early to bed for a few hours’ rest.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tented)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Barafu Camp – Summit (Uhuru Peak, 5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Begin your summit attempt around midnight, trekking by headlamp up steep switchbacks to Stella Point (5,756m) and onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Watch the sunrise from the summit—a truly unforgettable moment. After photos and celebrations, descend carefully to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tented)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (Descent)

After breakfast, descend through lush montane forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Say farewell to your mountain crew and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha. Celebrate your achievement with a hot shower and a well-earned rest. Additional nights or safari extensions can be arranged on request.

Accommodation: No accommodation (end of trek)
Meals: Breakfast

Included

  • All park fees & taxes
  • Camping accommodation & equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mattresses)
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking mountain guides, porters, and cook
  • Drinking water and hot drinks
  • Rescue fees
  • Transfers to/from park gate

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Personal trekking gear (clothing, boots, etc.)

How to Get There

  • Arrival Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off included in all packages
  • Private transfer to/from your hotel in Moshi or Arusha
  • Assistance with domestic flights and connections available on request
Request a Quote / Book Now
Want a custom trek? Contact us for a personalized quote.