Seven Days Machame Route

Safari summary

The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain at 5,895 meters. This 7-day climb offers the perfect balance of gradual acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, and high success rates for reaching the summit. Known for its variety of landscapes, the route takes climbers through lush rainforests, moorlands dotted with giant lobelias, alpine deserts, and eventually the icy glaciers near the summit.

Your adventure begins in Moshi, a charming town at the base of Kilimanjaro, where you’ll spend your first night in a comfortable hotel. Here, you’ll meet your professional mountain guide and crew, who will provide a detailed briefing and gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Over the next six days on the mountain, you’ll trek through diverse ecosystems. The climb starts with a hike through the rainforest, where monkeys and colorful birds accompany you along the moss-covered trails. As you ascend higher, the vegetation thins, and the dramatic views open up. The Shira Plateau reveals sweeping panoramas of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance. From there, you’ll trek past volcanic formations such as the Lava Tower and the Barranco Wall — iconic highlights of the Machame Route. Each day is designed to “climb high and sleep low,” a proven method for acclimatization that significantly improves your chances of reaching the summit.

The highlight of the trek is the summit attempt. Starting before midnight from Barafu Camp, you’ll climb steadily under a sky full of stars. As dawn breaks, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa, where the sun rises over the endless plains of Tanzania and the glaciers glisten in golden light. Standing on the highest point of the continent is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement, and one you’ll never forget.

Accommodations on the mountain are in high-quality four-season tents with sleeping mats, while hot meals are freshly prepared by your dedicated cook each day. Porters carry your main luggage, leaving you to hike with only a daypack. The crew includes guides, porters, and cooks — all trained and experienced in high-altitude trekking — ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the climb.

This 7-day Machame Route climb is ideal for adventurous travelers with a moderate level of fitness, seeking a balance of challenge and reward. With expert guidance, a well-paced itinerary, and excellent acclimatization profile, this route boasts some of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro. Combined with the camaraderie of your climbing team and the majesty of Kilimanjaro’s landscapes, this journey is both a physical challenge and a deeply personal achievement.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, March, June, July, August, September, October
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Photography safari—with professional guide
• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• International flights
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas