7 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Tour Details

The Machame route, also referred to as the Whiskey route, is one of the most popular routes on Kilimanjaro and a favorite for us. Machame route is one of the highest summit success rates given the topography and nature of the route which allows climbers to “trek high & sleep low” hence making it a more favorable route for acclimatization. This route offers some of the most spectacular scenery while on the mountain. The Machame route starts in the south west side of the mountain and proceeds steeply north, traversing the Shira plateau and eventually joining the Shira and Lemosho routes just after the Shira cave camp. The Machame route can be done in minimum 6 days but a 7 day trek is recommended to allow climbers been well rested and acclimatized before making the final ascent to the summit.

Route Map

Tour Plan

We’ve meticulously crafted each day to ensure you enjoy the ultimate experience. From delving into historical landmarks to savoring delectable local flavors, every moment is filled with adventure and thrill. Come along with us as we embark on a journey through some of the most captivating Africa destinations .

Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania

You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your arranged hotel in Moshi town, you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. Gear which is missing can be rented on this day.

Hotel: Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Machame Gate (1790m) to Machame Camp (3010m)

One hour’s drive from Moshi lies the gate to the Machame route, where we complete park formalities, meet our crew of porters and start to climb! The first section of the route climbs steadily and passes through magnificent, dense rainforest. This path is less well-trodden so it can get somewhat overgrown in places and it is often wet and muddy underfoot.

Distance covered: 10.8km / 6.7mi
Approx. time taken: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 3: Machame Camp (3010m) to Shira Camp (3845m)

Our route continues on up through the forest until we reach the steep ascent onto the Shira Plateau, where there are rewarding views of the mountain. Looking back, you will be able to see Mt Meru rising high above Arusha town in the distance.

Distance covered: 5.4km / 3.4mi
Approx. time taken: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 4: Shira Cave (3845m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)

Walking now on high moorland, the landscape changes the entire character of the trek. We traverse the southwest side of Kilimanjaro, passing underneath the Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach and finally reach camp The day has been spent at altitude (up to 4600m), but we have followed the mountaineering code of ‘walk high, sleep low’ to aid your body’s acclimatization to altitude.

Distance covered: 10.8km / 6.7mi
Approx. time taken: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)

Our day starts by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. We then exit steeply, up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It’s a climb over rock, not technical but long and tiring. Passing underneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards the Karanga valley. From here we have a steep climb up from Karanga valley to our night’s camp at Karanga camp, set at 3963m. For those feeling strong we will go for a mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to around 4200m before descending back to camp for the night.

Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi
Approx. time taken: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963) to Barafu Camp (4640m)

After a good night’s rest and breakfast, we set off on our walk to Barafu camp at 4640m. The climb will take us across desolate scree slopes with no vegetation around us at all. It’s a tough steep walk made more difficult by the altitude. On arriving at camp we eat and spend the afternoon resting as we prepare for a long night and day ahead. It is important to keep hydrated and warm. We have an early dinner and then try to get some sleep as we will be getting up at between 11pm and 12pm to start the climb to the summit.

Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi
Approx. time taken: 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included

Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Mweka Camp (3100m)

We start off at around midnight, and walk steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. We will be climbing scree for 4 to 5 hours but gain incredible height over a short distance. The views are spectacular. We should be on the crater rim at Stella Point (5739m) as the first rays of the sun hit us. Spectacular ice cliffs within the crater surround us and the views to jagged Mawenzi peak and beyond are breathtaking. Another hour’s walking takes us to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). We begin our descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on scree slope and track back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, before finally heading down to Mweka Camp for a long well-earned rest.

Distance covered: 16.4km / 9.6mi
Approx. time taken: 13-15 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included

Day 8: Trek Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)

A gentle trek takes us down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where we complete park formalities and receive certificates, which you can hang up with pride! We are then met by our vehicles and return to the hotel in Moshi, where you can treat yourself to a welcome shower then celebrate with cold drinks. Overnight at your arranged Hotel

Distance covered: 9.1km / 7.5miles
Approx. time taken: 3 hours
Hotel: Bed &Breakfast

Day 9: Depart Tanzania

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.

Price Includes & Excludes

2 night’s accommodation in Moshi or Arusha is included
Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your Accommodations in Moshi.
Park entry fees
Hut fees
Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate
Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)

Airfare Tips for porters, Guide, Cook and Assistant Guide
Flights
Visas
Tips to the mountain staff
Meals other than breakfast while in Arusha or Moshi
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Hotel upgrade costs if you decide to request an alternative hotel to the standard
Items considered to be non-essential, such as alcohol, beverages, cigarettes, snacks, etc

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the commonly asked questions by our visitors. If there’s something crucial that we haven’t covered, please Contact Us. Our team is available to assist you at any time.

What is Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It’s actually a dormant volcano and comprises three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.

How tall is Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro stands at approximately 19,341 feet (5,895 meters) above sea level.

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?

The duration of the climb varies based on the route chosen. Typically, it takes around 5 to 9 days to complete the ascent and descent, depending on the route and the climber’s pace.

What routes are available to climb Kilimanjaro?

There are several routes, including Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and more. Each route has its own characteristics, varying in difficulty, scenery, and success rates.

What are the accommodation options during the climb?

Accommodations vary depending on the route. Typically, climbers stay in tents at designated campsites or huts along the trails. Some routes offer more basic camping experiences, while others have better amenities.

How should I prepare for climbing Kilimanjaro?

Physical fitness is essential. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking with a loaded backpack are recommended. Altitude acclimatization is crucial, so consider spending a few days at high altitudes before the climb.

What about altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real concern when climbing Kilimanjaro. Acclimatization days are built into most routes to help climbers adjust gradually to the altitude. It’s essential to listen to your guides, stay hydrated, and descend if symptoms worsen.

What gear do I need for the climb?

Essential gear includes proper hiking boots, clothing suitable for varied weather conditions, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a daypack, and other personal items. It’s crucial to have proper gear for both warmth and protection against the elements.

Do I need a guide or porter to climb Kilimanjaro?

Yes, it’s required to climb Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide and it’s highly recommended to hire porters for carrying equipment. Guides are familiar with the routes, provide safety, and understand altitude-related issues.

What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best times are during the dry seasons: January to March and June to October. These periods offer clearer skies and more stable weather conditions, making the climb safer and more enjoyable.

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