7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb – Machame Route
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Price:
$2150.00
Duration
8 Days
People:
21
Tour Overview
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route”, is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This 8-day itinerary combines breathtaking landscapes, gradual acclimatization, and the thrill of reaching Africa’s highest peak. Beginning in lush rainforest, the trail winds through changing ecosystems—from tropical jungle and moorlands to the stark beauty of alpine desert—offering ever-changing vistas and unique flora such as giant lobelias and heathers.
This route is designed for both adventure and a higher chance of summit success, with carefully planned acclimatization hikes at key points like Lava Tower and Barranco Valley. Each day brings a new challenge, culminating in the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), where the sunrise over the African plains rewards your effort with a truly unforgettable experience. The descent via the Mweka Route takes you back through rainforest to Arusha, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and memories that last a lifetime.
Perfect for determined trekkers seeking a balance of challenge, comfort, and unforgettable scenery, the Machame Route is a journey that combines adventure, natural beauty, and the ultimate summit experience.
What Included
All meals while on the Mountain
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
A professional driver/guide
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Clean, purified drinking water
Not included
International flights
Travel insurance
Personal items
International and domestic flights
Tips and gratuities
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Tour Amenities
Mountain Climbing
Tour Plan
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Day 1: Machame Camp
A short drive takes us to the Machame Gate (1,800m / 5,380ft), the official starting point of the climb. After completing park registration, we begin trekking through lush montane rainforest. The trail winds upward beneath a canopy of moss-covered trees, with the sounds of birds and monkeys echoing through the jungle. By late afternoon, we reach Machame Camp (3,000m / 9,350ft), where we settle in for the night. -
Day 2: Shira Plateau
After breakfast, we continue climbing, leaving the rainforest behind as the vegetation gradually thins. The trail opens into moorland with wide views and unique plants like giant lobelias and heathers. As we ascend, the dramatic outline of Kibo Peak comes into sight, offering a glimpse of our final destination. We arrive at Shira Plateau (3,840m / 12,500ft), one of the most stunning high-altitude landscapes on Kilimanjaro. -
Day 3: Barranco Camp
This is a key acclimatization day. The trail climbs steadily upward to Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190ft), where we stop for lunch. After spending time at this higher altitude, we descend into the spectacular Barranco Valley. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps the body adjust to altitude. For those with energy and favorable conditions, there’s the chance to scramble up Lava Tower itself. We finish the day at Barranco Camp (3,960m / 13,044ft), surrounded by dramatic cliffs and giant groundsels. -
Day 4: Karanga Camp
The morning begins with a thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble that rewards you with magnificent views at the top. The trail then follows a series of ridges and valleys, offering a mix of ascents and descents before reaching Karanga Camp (4,035m / 13,106ft). In the afternoon, you may take a short acclimatization hike before resting and preparing for the final push to the summit. -
Day 5: Barafu Camp
Today’s trek is shorter but important, as we ascend steadily to Barafu Camp (4,673m / 15,331ft), the base camp for our summit attempt. The route passes through an alpine desert with little vegetation, but the views of Mawenzi Peak are spectacular. Upon arrival, we enjoy an early dinner and rest, as the summit push begins just before midnight. -
Day 6: Summit – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
In the early hours, guided by headlamps, we begin the toughest but most rewarding part of the climb. Slowly, step by step, we ascend the steep trail toward Stella Point (5,756m / 18,885ft). From here, a final trek along the crater rim leads us to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating this incredible achievement, we begin the long descent, stopping at Barafu for rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,100m / 10,500ft) for the night. -
Day 7: Mweka Gate – Return to Arusha
The final stretch takes us back through the lush rainforest as we descend to Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,000ft). Here, we sign out of the national park and receive our climbing certificates to mark the accomplishment of summiting Kilimanjaro. After farewells with the mountain crew, we drive back to Arusha for a hot shower, well-earned rest, and a celebratory dinner.
