Kilimanjaro Machame Route
7 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route
$1700-3300 USD
pp
Safari summary
The 7 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers breathtaking views and a high success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile. The route approaches the mountain from the southwest, passing through diverse landscapes such as dense rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the icy summit zone.
About this tour
| Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
| Main focus | None | |
| Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
| Best months | January, February, June, July, August, September, October, November, December | |
| Countries | ||
| Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- All drinks
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Distance: ~11 km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rainforest The journey begins at Machame Gate, where trekkers register before starting the ascent through a dense rainforest. The trail is often muddy and humid, with opportunities to see black-and-white Colobus monkeys. After several hours, you reach Machame Camp, nestled in the heath and moorland zone.
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Distance: ~5 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Moorland Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail steepens as it enters the moorland zone. The route offers stunning views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau. Trekkers pass through volcanic ridges before arriving at Shira Camp, where they enjoy the first views of Kibo Peak.
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
Distance: ~10 km Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert This is an acclimatization day as the route ascends to Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending to Barranco Camp. The high-altitude hike helps the body adjust to lower oxygen levels. The day ends at the picturesque Barranco Camp, surrounded by giant Senecio plants and offering spectacular views of the Barranco Wall.
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Distance: ~5 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert The day starts with the exciting climb of the Barranco Wall, a non-technical scramble offering breathtaking views. After reaching the top, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley, where trekkers rest and prepare for the final ascent.
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Distance: ~4 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert A steep and steady climb leads to Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit attempt. The landscape is barren and rocky, with strong winds. Trekkers have an early dinner and rest before the midnight summit push.
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Distance: ~16 km Hiking Time: 10-14 hours Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest The summit attempt starts at midnight, following a slow, steep climb to Stella Point (5,739m). From here, the trail continues along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, trekkers descend rapidly to Mweka Camp, passing through Barafu Camp for a short rest.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Distance: ~10 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rainforest The final descent takes trekkers through lush rainforest, with chances to see wildlife and exotic plants. At Mweka Gate, climbers receive their summit certificates before heading back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved celebration.
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