7 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Route Via Machame
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7 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Route via Machame Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the Whiskey Route, is one of the most popular and scenic trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). This route offers breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and icy glaciers. Its longer itinerary allows better acclimatization and a higher summit success rate.
Climbing Kilimanjaro via Machame is an unforgettable adventure — a test of endurance, determination, and spirit.
Itinerary at Glance
- Day 1: Arusha – Machame Gate – Machame Camp (3,010m)
- Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840m)
- Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
- Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995m)
- Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673m)
- Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
- Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha
Itinerary In Details
Day 1: Arusha – Machame Gate – Machame Camp (3,010m)
Distance: 11 km | Time: 5–7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, you’ll be driven from Arusha (or Moshi) to Machame Gate (1,800m). Following registration, the trek begins through lush rainforest alive with birds, monkeys, and vibrant vegetation. The trail gradually climbs to Machame Camp where you’ll have dinner and overnight rest.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Machame Camp
Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840m)
Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
After breakfast, ascend through a steep ridge crossing out of the forest zone into the heather and moorland. You’ll enjoy your first panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru in the distance. Arrive at Shira Camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Shira Camp
Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Distance: 10 km | Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Semi-desert
This day follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle to aid acclimatization. Hike to Lava Tower (4,630m) for lunch and rest before descending into the Barranco Valley. Enjoy stunning views of the Western Breach and the famous Barranco Wall. Arrive at Barranco Camp for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995m)
Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, conquer the Barranco Wall, a thrilling but non-technical climb with incredible views. Continue over ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, located in a valley below the Southern Glacier. The afternoon is free for rest and acclimatization.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Distance: 4 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s trek is short and steady, leading to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The landscape is barren and dramatic. After an early dinner, prepare your gear and rest early — tomorrow’s summit push begins before midnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 17 km | Time: 10–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic to Forest
Around midnight, begin your final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa! The trail climbs through ice and scree to Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim, then continues to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Celebrate your achievement with photos at the summit before descending to Barafu Camp for brunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp for your last night on the mountain.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha
Distance: 10 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive their certificates. Meet your driver and transfer back to Arusha (or Moshi) for relaxation or onward travel.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: None (End of tour)
Price Includes
- All park fees, camping fees, and government taxes
- Professional, English-speaking mountain guides and porters
- Cook and full board meals during the climb
- Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, chairs, table)
- Drinking water and hot beverages
- Round-trip airport or hotel transfers
- Rescue fees
Price Excludes
- Flights and visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Sleeping bag and personal climbing gear
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
- Extra nights in Arusha or Moshi (pre/post-climb)
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