Kilimanjaro Hike Via Machame

Safari summary

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Kilimanjaro hiking adventure via the Machame Route in 2026–2027, one of the most scenic and rewarding trails to Africa’s highest mountain. Famously known as the “Whiskey Route,” Machame offers hikers an incredible journey through diverse landscapes—from lush rainforests and heathlands to alpine deserts and icy glaciers. Unlike a technical climb, this is a hiking adventure where no ropes or mountaineering equipment are required, making it suitable for adventurers with good fitness and determination.
Over seven days, hikers will gradually adapt to the altitude, crossing dramatic ridges, sweeping valleys, and high-altitude plains before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. This hiking experience combines natural beauty, cultural discovery, and personal achievement, perfect for those seeking both challenge and wonder on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Detailed Hiking Itinerary

Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp (3,010m)
Your Kilimanjaro hiking journey begins with a transfer from Moshi to Machame Gate. After registration, you’ll start hiking through the dense rainforest, alive with bird calls, monkeys, and colorful flora. The trail can be muddy and steep, offering a true taste of adventure. After about 5–6 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Machame Camp, where you’ll rest under the stars.

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,845m)
Leaving the rainforest, the path opens into the moorland zone with fewer trees and wide views. The hike gradually climbs rocky ridges, giving you sweeping views of Mount Meru and the plains below. This stage is a steady uphill hike of about 5–6 hours, leading to Shira Camp on a high plateau.

Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
This is a classic acclimatization day. You’ll hike uphill toward the striking Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation at 4,630m, where you’ll pause for lunch and adjust to the altitude. Afterwards, you descend into the Barranco Valley, a green valley surrounded by steep cliffs. This long day of 6–7 hours of hiking helps your body prepare for higher altitudes. Overnight at Barranco Camp.

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
The day starts with the famous Barranco Wall, a steep yet non-technical climb using hands for balance in some parts. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy incredible views before continuing through rolling valleys and ridges. The hike lasts about 4–5 hours, ending at Karanga Camp, a key stop for rest and acclimatization.

Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Today’s hike is shorter but important as you move into the high-alpine desert. The terrain is rocky and dry, with fewer plants as oxygen levels drop. After 3–4 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The rest of the day is for early dinner and sleep in preparation for the midnight hike to the summit.

Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
At midnight, you’ll begin the most challenging and rewarding part of your Kilimanjaro hike. Using headlamps, you’ll follow a zigzag path through steep scree slopes, slowly making your way up. After about 6–8 hours of steady hiking, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise, standing on the Roof of Africa. After photos and celebration, descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (11–14 hours total hiking).

Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
The final hike takes you back through the lush rainforest with a gentle 3–4 hour descent. At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement before being transferred to Moshi.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Meals
• Park fees

What’s not included?

• Internal flights
• International flights
• Spa treatments