7-Day Machame Route - Kilimanjaro Climbing

Introduction and Overview

Embark on a thrilling 7-day adventure to summit Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, dubbed the "Whiskey Route" for its challenging yet rewarding ascent. Known for its stunning scenery and high success rate, this trek takes you through rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point. With Safe and Love Safaris, camp under starry skies, guided by expert climbers and supported by porters and cooks. The 7-day itinerary, including gradual acclimatization, makes it ideal for adventurers seeking both beauty and achievement.

Climb Highlights

• Summit Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 5,895 meters
• Camp amidst diverse landscapes, from rainforest to arctic zones
• Cross the dramatic Shira Plateau and Lava Tower
• Conquer the steep Barranco Wall for breathtaking views
• Guided by experienced Kilimanjaro professionals
• High summit success rate with 7-day acclimatization

Day 1: Arusha to Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Start with a morning drive from Arusha to Machame Gate (1,800m), about 1-2 hours. Register, meet your team, and begin a 11km trek (5-7 hours) through lush rainforest, spotting colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Arrive at Machame Camp (2,850m), where your crew sets up tents for dinner and your first night on the mountain.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Machame Camp (tented)

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

After breakfast, trek 5km (4-6 hours) from Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,750m). Ascend through heath and moorland, with shorter but steeper trails offering views of Kibo Peak. Reach the expansive Shira Plateau, camp at Shira Camp, and enjoy dinner under the open sky with your team.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Shira Camp (tented)

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Trek 10km (6-8 hours) from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,900m) via Lava Tower (4,600m). Climb high to aid acclimatization, passing semi-desert terrain, then descend to Barranco Valley. This “climb high, sleep low” day ends with dinner and rest at Barranco Camp, surrounded by giant senecios.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tented)

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Hike 5km (4-5 hours) from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m). Start with the exhilarating ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep scramble with panoramic views. Traverse ridges and valleys, arriving at Karanga Camp for lunch, dinner, and a night of rest as you acclimatize further.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tented)

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Trek 4km (3-4 hours) from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,670m), your summit base. The shorter day through alpine desert conserves energy for the summit push. Arrive by midday, eat an early dinner, and rest in your tent before the midnight ascent, with Kibo looming ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tented)

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Begin at midnight, trekking 5km (7-8 hours) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Ascend steep scree to Stella Point (5,739m) by dawn, then reach the summit for sunrise views. After celebrating, descend 14km (6-8 hours) to Mweka Camp (3,100m) through moorland, enjoying dinner and a well-earned rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tented)

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha

After breakfast, descend 10km (3-4 hours) from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,650m) through rainforest. Collect your summit certificate, say goodbye to your crew, and drive back to Arusha (2-3 hours), arriving by afternoon for departure or an optional hotel stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: None (optional stay in Arusha)

Tour Price

The total cost for the 7-Day Machame Route trek is $1,950 per person (based on group size of 2+). This includes camping accommodations, meals, park fees, and full support as listed in the itinerary.