Kilimanjaro Hike via Machame
7 days—Experience and Enjoy a Scenic Adventure Through the Machame Route in 2025-2026.
$1950-2100 USD
pp
Safari summary
The Machame Route, often called the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and gradual acclimatization, it offers an adventure that is both challenging and rewarding. Over seven days, you will walk through lush rainforests, cross moorlands dotted with giant heather, trek over alpine deserts, and finally push toward the icy glaciers of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. This itinerary gives you enough time to adjust to the altitude, making it one of the more successful routes for reaching the top.
Every day on this journey is unique. You will start with the sounds of tropical birds in the rainforest and end gazing at endless stars above the African plains. Each step brings a mix of physical effort, mental focus, and unforgettable beauty. With the guidance of experienced local guides and the warm support of porters and cooks, the climb feels like more than just a trek it becomes a story of resilience, connection, and triumph.
This seven-day Machame adventure is not just about reaching the summit; it’s about experiencing the mountain in its fullest form. You will walk through different ecosystems, rest at scenic campsites, and witness sunrises and sunsets that you will carry in your heart forever. By the time you descend, the mountain will have left its mark on you not just in memories, but in the quiet strength you discover within yourself.
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 | ||
Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Walking safari—with armed guard
- Photography safari—with professional guide
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- All drinks
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Hot air balloons
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Laundry
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Spa treatments
- Visas
Itinerary
Moshi to Machame Gate
Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate, where excitement fills the air. After registration and meeting your crew, you will step into a lush rainforest alive with the songs of birds and the rustle of monkeys. The trail is green and refreshing, with a cool atmosphere that makes the walk enjoyable. After about 5–6 hours, you will reach Machame Camp (2,835m) where dinner and a well-deserved rest await under the forest canopy.
Machame Camp
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, you will enter a new landscape filled with giant heather and moorland plants. The trail is steeper today, but the views are spectacular, with glimpses of Mount Meru and the plains below. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you will arrive at Shira Camp (3,750m), set on a wide plateau with stunning views of Kibo Peak. The sunsets here are particularly magical, painting the sky in shades of gold and red.
Shira Camp
Shira Camp to Lava Tower
This is the day your body begins to learn the rhythm of acclimatization. You will climb gradually to Lava Tower (4,600m), where you pause for lunch and let your body feel the altitude. Then, you will descend into the Barranco Valley (3,960m), where the lower altitude eases your breathing. The hike is about 6–7 hours, and Barranco Camp rests beneath the towering Barranco Wall, a dramatic backdrop for the evening.
Barranco Camp
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, you will face the famous Barranco Wall, a climb that looks intimidating but is surprisingly fun. The trail winds up through narrow paths and rocky steps, giving you thrilling views of the valley below. Once at the top, the path levels out with gentle ups and downs before reaching Karanga Camp (3,995m). This shorter hike of 4–5 hours is great for recovery and acclimatization.
Karanga Camp
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
The landscape shifts to an alpine desert, stark and beautiful. The path is dry and windswept, with clear views of the summit ahead. After about 4–5 hours, you will reach Barafu Camp (4,673m), your base for the summit attempt. The afternoon is spent resting, eating, and preparing mentally and physically for the long night ahead. Excitement mixes with nerves as you rest early, knowing the biggest challenge awaits.
Barafu Camp
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
This is summit day the heart of the journey. You’ll wake around midnight and begin the slow, steady climb by headlamp. The path is steep and the air is thin, but every step takes you closer. As dawn breaks, you will reach Stella Point, and with one last push, you will stand at Uhuru Peak (5,895m) the highest point in Africa. After celebrating briefly, you will begin the long descent back to Mweka Camp (3,100m), where you will finally rest after 12–14 hours of hiking.
Mweka Camp
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final morning is filled with joy and relief. You will descend gently through the rainforest for 3–4 hours until you reach Mweka Gate. Here, you will receive your summit certificate a treasured reminder of your achievement. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Moshi, where a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and the satisfaction of climbing Kilimanjaro welcome you back.
Not Included
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