Mount Kilimanjaro

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route

The 7-day Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers stunning vistas, diverse landscapes, and excellent acclimatization opportunities, making it a favorite among trekkers. This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a trek through lush rainforest before ascending through moorland and alpine desert to reach the summit. The route provides trekkers with the unique opportunity to traverse different ecological zones and experience breathtaking scenery, including views of Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and the majestic glaciers near the summit. Nights are spent in designated campsites with tented accommodations, offering a truly immersive mountain experience. This 7-day itinerary allows for better acclimatization than shorter versions, improving your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. With a professional mountain crew, careful pacing, and the right preparation, the Machame Route promises an unforgettable journey to the “Roof of Africa.”
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Distance: 7 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
  • Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m)

The adventure begins at Londorossi Gate after a scenic drive from Moshi or Arusha. Once formalities are complete, trek through lush rainforest teeming with birdlife, monkeys, and ancient trees. The trail is gentle, with moss-covered rocks and damp undergrowth as your companions. Your first camp, Mti Mkubwa, or “Big Tree Camp,” sits in the forest. Enjoy your first night under the stars, surrounded by nature’s sounds and the anticipation of the days ahead.

  • Hiking Time: 4–6 hours | Distance: 5 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Moorland
  • Overnight: Shira Camp (tented camp)

The landscape changes dramatically as you leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone. Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, with panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak. You may begin to feel the altitude, so take it slow and stay hydrated. Shira Camp sits on a high plateau, offering clear evening views of Mount Meru in the distance.

  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Distance: 10 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Semi-desert
  • Overnight: Barranco Camp (tented camp)

Today is an essential acclimatization day. You ascend gradually to the Lava Tower, a prominent rock formation at 4,630 meters, before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to the altitude. The trail offers dramatic views and passes through rugged landscapes. Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall, is one of the most beautiful campsites on the mountain.

  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 5 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
  • Overnight: Karanga Camp (tented camp)

After breakfast, you tackle the famous Barranco Wall—a thrilling scramble with rewarding views. Once at the top, you continue along undulating trails through alpine desert, eventually reaching Karanga Camp. This is another acclimatization day, and the short trek helps your body prepare for the summit push. Rest and hydrate well.

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Distance: 4 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
  • Overnight: Barafu Camp (tented camp)

Today’s hike to Barafu Camp is short but steep. The landscape is stark and cold as you climb toward your final base camp before the summit. After an early dinner, rest as much as possible. You’ll wake around midnight to begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak. Prepare all your gear and mentally focus for summit night.

  • Hiking Time: 10–14 hours | Distance: 17 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Arctic to Rainforest
  • Overnight: Mweka Camp (tented camp)

Summit day begins at midnight with a slow, steady climb in the cold and dark. Reach Stella Point at sunrise and continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa. Celebrate briefly, take photos, and begin your descent to Barafu for a short rest. Then continue down to Mweka Camp through changing ecological zones. This is your final night on the mountain.

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Distance: 10 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
  • Overnight: Lodge in Arusha (own arrangement or optional add-on)

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. Your driver will meet you and transfer you back to Arusha for a well-deserved rest. Celebrate your achievement and reflect on your incredible journey to the Roof of Africa.

  • Transportation from/to your Hotel 
  • Park Entry Fee
  • Professional Guide
  • Airport Transfers
  • Full Board Accommodations
  • Government Applied VAT
  • Tipping & Gratitude
  • Arrival & Transit Visas
  • Medical & Travel Insurance
  • Drinks at the Hotel
  • Drones Usage
  • International Flight

ENQUIRY FORM

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Rongai Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp Hiking Time: 4–5 hours |

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Rongai Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Nalemuru Gate (1,990m) to Simba Camp (2,625m) Hiking Time: 4–5

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp Hiking Time: 5–7 hours |

9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Lemosho Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp Hiking Time: 3–4 hours