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7 Days Machame Route

Route Overview

The 7 days Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic treks up Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its beautiful landscapes and varied terrain, this route begins on the southern side of the mountain, starting with a steep ascent through lush rainforest before emerging into heather and moorland. Over the days, the trail continues across dramatic ridges and valleys, offering trekkers stunning views of glaciers, volcanic formations, and sweeping panoramas of the African plains. The extra day in this itinerary improves acclimatization, significantly increasing the chances of reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak, 5,895 meters above sea level.

As the climb progresses, trekkers face one of the route’s most exciting challenges—the Barranco Wall—before moving higher into the alpine desert and finally to Barafu Camp, the base for the summit push. The final ascent begins at midnight, taking climbers up steep switchbacks to Stella Point and onward to Uhuru Peak for an unforgettable sunrise over the Roof of Africa. With its mix of physical challenge, striking beauty, and high success rates when done over seven days, the Machame Route is a favorite choice for adventurous trekkers seeking a memorable Kilimanjaro climb.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 11 km
Weather: Warm, humid rainforest with possible afternoon rain.
Acclimatization: Steady climb into higher altitude; go slow to let your body adjust.
The trek begins at Machame Gate with registration before entering the lush rainforest. The trail is steep and winding, taking you through dense jungle filled with monkeys, birds, and rich vegetation. After a long ascent, you arrive at Machame Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Machame Camp (3,000m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)
Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 5 km
Weather: Cooler, with sunny conditions during the day and cold nights.
Acclimatization: Moderate altitude gain, allowing your body to adapt further.
Leaving the forest, you enter the heath and moorland zone with fewer trees but sweeping views. The trail climbs more steeply before leveling out across the Shira Plateau. Camp is set at Shira, where you’ll enjoy your first clear views of Kibo Peak.

Day 3: Shira Camp (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,630m), then down to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Hiking time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 10 km
Weather: Cold and windy at higher elevations; possible light snow near Lava Tower.
Acclimatization: Important “climb high, sleep low” day.
Today involves trekking east toward Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation at 4,630m, where you stop for lunch. Afterward, you descend to Barranco Camp, significantly aiding acclimatization by allowing your body to adjust to altitude changes.

Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,050m)
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Weather: Clear skies with warm sun in the day; cool evenings.
Acclimatization: Shorter day to strengthen acclimatization.
The day starts with the famous Barranco Wall climb—a thrilling but non-technical scramble offering incredible views. You then traverse several ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp, an important acclimatization stop.

Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,050m) to Barafu Camp (4,680m)
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 4 km
Weather: Harsh alpine desert—dry, cold, and windy with freezing nights.
Acclimatization: Final preparation before summit attempt.
A steady climb takes you into the alpine desert, where little vegetation survives. You’ll reach Barafu Camp in the afternoon. From here, you rest early, eat dinner, and prepare for the summit push at midnight.

Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,680m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Hiking time: 11–14 hours
Distance: 17 km
Weather: Freezing temperatures before dawn (-10°C to -20°C), clear skies at sunrise, warmer on descent.
Acclimatization: The ultimate test of your altitude adaptation.
Your summit push begins around midnight with a steep climb through rocky switchbacks toward Stella Point (5,739m). From there, you follow the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. After celebrations, you descend to Barafu for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp.

Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Weather: Warmer and more humid as you re-enter the rainforest.
Acclimatization: Descending quickly reduces altitude-related effects.
The final leg is a gentle descent through the forest, where you may spot monkeys and lush vegetation. At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before meeting your team for the transfer back to your hotel.

Price

Number of PeoplePrice Per Person
1 Person$2150 USD
2–4 People$1900 USD
5–9 People$1800 USD
10+ People$1750 USD

Price Includes

✅ 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi or Arusha (before and after the trek)
✅ Private airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
✅ Professional mountain guide and full support crew (rangers, porters, cook)
✅ All Mount Kilimanjaro Park fees, hut fees, and rescue charges
✅ 18% VAT on all applicable services
✅ Accommodation in mountain huts during the trek
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
✅ Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooking staff
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit and basic medical support
✅ Katadyn-filtered drinking water throughout the climb
✅ Emergency evacuation procedures where necessary

Price Excludes

❌ International and domestic flight tickets
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Travel and medical insurance
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and cook (optional but appreciated)
❌ Personal hiking gear (clothing, boots, backpacks, etc.)
❌ Laundry services at the hotel (available at extra cost)

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