7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its beautiful and varied landscapes, this 7-day trek offers excellent acclimatization with a climb-high, sleep-low profile. It is ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a slightly more challenging climb with breathtaking views across multiple ecological zones.
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800 m) – Machame Camp (2,835 m)
Depart from Moshi or Arusha after breakfast and drive to Machame Gate. Complete park formalities and begin your trek through lush rainforest. Spot monkeys and exotic birds along the way. Arrive at Machame Camp after a 5–7 hour trek. Dinner and overnight at camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,750 m)
Ascend steadily through the forest and enter the heather zone. The trail opens up to expansive views of the plains and Mount Meru. Arrive at Shira Camp after 4–6 hours of trekking. Enjoy dinner and overnight under the stars.
Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630 m) – Barranco Camp (3,976 m)
Today is key for acclimatization. Ascend to Lava Tower where you’ll have lunch before descending to Barranco Camp. This climb-high, sleep-low approach helps your body adjust to altitude. Total trek time: 6–8 hours. Overnight at the scenic Barranco Valley.
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995 m)
Tackle the Barranco Wall, a moderately steep climb offering panoramic views. Continue through alpine desert to Karanga Camp, arriving in the early afternoon. Relax, have dinner, and overnight in camp. Trek time: 4–5 hours.
Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673 m)
After breakfast, hike to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The route is steep and winds through desolate alpine terrain. Arrive in the early afternoon, rest, and prepare for the midnight ascent. Dinner and early sleep. Trek time: 3–5 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,110 m)
Begin the summit attempt around midnight. Reach Stella Point (5,756 m) at sunrise, then push to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. Celebrate, then descend to Barafu for rest and continue down to Mweka Camp for the night. Total trekking time: 12–15 hours.
Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha
After breakfast, make your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Trek time: 3–4 hours.
Inclusives:
Airport transfers (pick-up and drop-off)
Park fees, camping and hut fees, rescue fees
2 nights accommodation in Moshi/Arusha (before and after the climb)
Mountain guides, porters, and cook
All meals and drinking water on the mountain
Accommodation in mountain huts (Mandara, Horombo, Kibo)
Transportation to/from Marangu Gate
Summit certificate
Exclusives:
International and domestic flights
Tanzanian visa
Travel insurance
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, boots, clothing, etc.)
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Additional hotel nights or activities not mentioned
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Laundry services
Optional excursions (e.g., safari or cultural tours)