7 Days Machame Route: A Full Adventure to Conquer Kilimanjaro
The 7-day Machame Route provides an extended version of this scenic trek, offering an additional day for better acclimatization and an improved chance of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak. Known as the "Whiskey Route," this trek is challenging yet rewarding, with diverse landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glacial peaks.
This itinerary is perfect for trekkers looking for a well-paced adventure while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Elevation: 1,800m (5,905 ft) to 3,000m (9,842 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Begin your trek at the Machame Gate after completing registration. Hike through the lush rainforest, encountering vibrant flora and fauna along the way. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Machame Camp, where you’ll spend your first night on the mountain.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Elevation: 3,000m (9,842 ft) to 3,840m (12,598 ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
The trail ascends steeply into the moorland zone, offering stunning views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru. Arrive at Shira Camp, where you can relax and soak in the incredible landscape.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
- Elevation: 3,840m (12,598 ft) to 3,950m (12,959 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Acclimatization begins as you ascend to the Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190 ft), an iconic volcanic formation. After reaching the high altitude, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, allowing your body to adjust to the thinner air.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,950m (12,959 ft) to 4,035m (13,238 ft)
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Today begins with the challenging climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but thrilling section offering panoramic views. After crossing ridges and valleys, you’ll arrive at Karanga Camp, a shorter trekking day designed for rest and acclimatization.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 4,035m (13,238 ft) to 4,600m (15,091 ft)
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Leaving Karanga behind, you’ll trek through alpine desert terrain toward Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the midnight ascent to the summit.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,600m (15,091 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) (descent to 3,100m/10,170 ft)
- Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Around midnight, start your summit push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement at the top, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100m (10,170 ft) to 1,800m (5,905 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
On your final day, trek down through the lush rainforest to the Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive a summit certificate. Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha to celebrate your achievement.
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional and certified mountain guides, porters, and cooks
- Transfers to and from the trailhead
- Park entry, camping, and rescue fees
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping pads, chairs, and dining tables)
- Pulse oximeter for daily health monitoring
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
Tour Exclusions:
- Flights to and from Tanzania
- Personal trekking gear (e.g., boots, jackets, sleeping bags)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Personal expenses, such as snacks and drinks
- Additional hotel stays before or after the trek
Contact US Now!
Arusha – Tanzania
+255 682 009 908
info@kiligatesexpedition.com
kiligatesexpedition@gmail.com