Machame Route Kilimanjaro Hike

9 days—A scenic 7-day trek on the “Whiskey Route” with gradual acclimatization and stunning landscapes.

$2100-2670 USD

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Safari summary

The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most famous and scenic trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), Africa’s highest peak. This 7-day climb offers an excellent balance of adventure, gradual acclimatization, and diverse landscapes. Compared to the 6-day version, the 7-day Machame Route gives climbers an extra day to adapt to the altitude, increasing your chances of reaching the top of Uhuru Peak safely and successfully.

The journey begins in the lush tropical rainforest, where you’ll walk under a canopy of giant trees filled with monkeys, exotic birds, and rich vegetation. As the days progress, the scenery changes dramatically — from rolling moorlands covered in heather and wildflowers, to the stark and stunning alpine desert, and finally to the icy glaciers and snowfields near the summit. Every day brings new views, unique terrain, and a true sense of adventure.

You’ll be guided by a professional and experienced mountain team, including certified guides, skilled cooks, and hardworking porters who will carry your equipment, set up camp, and prepare hot meals to keep you energized. The camaraderie of the team and fellow climbers adds to the experience, making it more than just a hike but a shared journey of determination and discovery.

One of the highlights of this route is the challenging Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble that rewards you with sweeping views of the mountain and valleys below. Another unforgettable moment comes on summit night: beginning at midnight from Barafu Camp, you’ll trek under a blanket of stars toward Stella Point and then push onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), where the golden sunrise over the vast African plains will take your breath away.

The descent follows a different path, giving you a chance to see even more of Kilimanjaro’s beauty. At the end of the climb, successful hikers are awarded a certificate of achievement — a lifelong reminder of your accomplishment.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-time adventurer, the 7-Day Machame Route is the perfect choice for those who want a well-paced climb, stunning scenery, and a higher summit success rate. Combined with expert support and warm Tanzanian hospitality, this trek promises an unforgettable adventure on the Roof of Africa.

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	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
Airport transfers
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
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Arrival

Kilimanjaro

As you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will greet you with a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious meal and relax after your journey. Later, meet your mountain guide for a pre-trek briefing, gear check, and important information about the climb.

Hotel in moshi/Arusha

Machame Gate – Machame Camp

Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Machame Gate (1,800m), complete registration, and begin your trek through lush rainforest filled with birds and monkeys. The trail gradually ascends to Machame Camp. Hiking Distance: 11 km Hiking Time: 5–7 hours Starting Altitude: 1,800m Ending Altitude: 3,000m

Machame Camp

Machame Camp – Shira Camp

Kilimanjaro

Leave the rainforest and ascend into the moorland zone with stunning views of Mount Meru and Shira Plateau. The trail climbs steadily before reaching Shira Camp. Hiking Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4–6 hours Starting Altitude: 3,000m Ending Altitude: 3,840m

Shira Camp

Shira Camp – Barranco camp

Kilimanjaro

Today is an acclimatization day. You’ll trek to Lava Tower (4,630m) for lunch before descending to Barranco Camp (3,960m). This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to the altitude. Hiking Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 6–8 hours Starting Altitude: 3,840m Highest Point: 4,630m Ending Altitude: 3,960m

Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

Begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling section with rewarding views. Continue through alpine desert valleys until you reach Karanga Camp. Hiking Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Starting Altitude: 3,960m Ending Altitude: 4,035m

Karanga Camp

Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro

A short but steep climb takes you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Rest early, prepare gear, and get ready for the midnight climb to the summit. Hiking Distance: 4 km Hiking Time: 3–4 hours Starting Altitude: 4,035m Ending Altitude: 4,640m

Barafu Camp

Barafu Camp Uhuru Peak Mweka Camp

Kilimanjaro

At midnight, begin your final push to the summit. Climb slowly in the dark to Stella Point (5,739m), then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) for an unforgettable sunrise view. After celebrating, descend to Barafu for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp. Hiking Distance: 17 km Hiking Time: 10–14 hours Starting Altitude: 4,640m Summit Altitude: 5,895m Ending Altitude: 3,080m

Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi

Kilimanjaro

Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where successful climbers will receive summit certificates. From here, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest. Hiking Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 3–4 hours Starting Altitude: 3,080m Ending Altitude: 1,640m

Hotel in moshi

Departure Day

Kilimanjaro

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. If you’d like to continue your adventure, we can arrange a safari or a Zanzibar beach holiday.

not included

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