Summit Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route in 7 Day

Northern Circuit Adventure Tanzania

🏔️ The Machame Route: The Famous “Whiskey Route” to the Summit

Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the Scenic Machame Route

Embark on a thrilling 7-day adventure to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, via the Machame Route. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” this trail offers a perfect blend of challenge, breathtaking landscapes, and excellent acclimatization opportunities. Each day presents a new environment, from lush rainforests and dramatic moorlands to alpine deserts and the stunning glacier-covered summit.

This route is ideal for those seeking an adventurous and immersive experience. Accompanied by experienced guides, porters, and cooks, you’ll have all the support needed to safely and successfully reach the Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The Machame Route also offers some of the most spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems and iconic landmarks like Lava Tower and the Great Barranco Wall. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time climber, the 7-day Machame itinerary balances acclimatization with adventure to increase your chances of reaching the summit. This journey will leave you with unforgettable memories, stunning photographs, and the incredible achievement of conquering the Roof of Africa!

7-Day Kilimanjaro Itinerary: Machame Route

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll meet our representative. They will transfer you to Silver Palm Hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

After breakfast, transfer by car to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. At the park gates, you’ll complete registration formalities before beginning the climb. The trail winds through a lush rainforest, ascending steadily along a ridge until reaching Machame Camp, your campsite for the night.

Altitude change: 1,800m to 3,000m (+1,200m)
Distance: 11 km
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Environment: Montane Forest

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

After breakfast, you’ll leave the rainforest behind and ascend into the moorland zone. The trail traverses a steep valley and rocky ridges before reaching Shira Camp. Enjoy stunning views of the mountain’s west face.

Altitude change: 3,000m to 3,850m (+850m)
Distance: 9 km
Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Environment: Moorland

Day 4: Shira Camp via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Today is essential for acclimatization. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m) for lunch and acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp for the night. The camp is located in a picturesque valley beneath the Breach Wall, offering incredible sunset views—a perfect spot for photography.

Altitude change: 3,850m to 4,600m to 3,950m (+750m)
Distance: 12 km
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Environment: Semi-desert

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

The day begins with a short but fun scramble up the Great Barranco Wall. The trail continues across scree fields to Karanga Valley, nestled below the stunning icefalls of the Heim, Kersten, and Decken glaciers. Camp overnight at Karanga Camp.

Altitude change: 3,950m to 3,930m (-20m)
Distance: 7 km
Hiking time: 4 hours
Environment: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

After leaving Karanga Camp, you’ll ascend to the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail and continue to Barafu Camp. This site marks the completion of the Southern Circuit and offers spectacular views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Rest, have dinner, and prepare for the summit attempt.

Altitude change: 3,930m to 4,600m (+670m)
Distance: 6 km
Hiking time: 3 hours
Environment: Alpine Desert

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and Mweka Camp

Wake up at 11:30 PM and start your summit attempt with tea and snacks. Ascend through scree fields to Stella Point (5,732m), where you’ll take a short rest. If weather permits, enjoy a breathtaking sunrise. From here, a final push leads to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Barafu Camp for lunch before continuing to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain. Trekking poles are essential for navigating the loose gravel on the descent.

Altitude change: 4,600m to 5,895m (+1,295m), then down to 3,100m
Distance: 7 km ascent / 23 km descent
Hiking time: 6–8 hours ascent / 6–7 hours descent
Environment: Summit—Stone scree, ice-capped / Descent—Alpine Desert

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Descend through the lush montane forest to the Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions. Afterward, transfer back to Moshi or Arusha hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Altitude change: 3,100m to 1,800m (-1,300m)
Distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Environment: Montane Forest

Price Includes

✅ All park entry fees
✅ Flying Doctor Service
✅ Rescue fees/Hut fees
✅ Pickup from the airport
✅ Accommodation at hotels and camps as per the itinerary
✅ Chef services
✅ Guide/assistant guide/porters
✅ Park commission fees
✅ Tents, sleeping mats, and sleeping bags
✅ Meals as per the itinerary above
✅ English-speaking driver guide
✅ Transport to and from the gate
✅ Bottled drinking water (1.5 liters per person per day during the climb)
✅ One night of complimentary hotel accommodation upon your arrival in Moshi/Arusha, including bed and breakfast