Kilimanjaro Machame Route 7 Days
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Tour Overview
Nicknamed the “Whiskey” Route, the Kilimanjaro Machame Route 7 Days presents a more challenging and costly experience compared to the Marangu route. However, it offers climbers one of the best combinations of cost-effectiveness and acclimatization opportunities. Adventurous trekkers, especially those with prior hiking or trekking experience, will find this route ideal.
The Kilimanjaro Machame Route 7 Days rewards climbers with breathtaking scenic views and diverse landscapes. It begins in the southwest and descends through the Mweka Route, offering views of the expansive Shira Plateau, a scramble up Lava Tower, a challenging ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, and a traverse beneath the stunning southern ice field of Kilimanjaro.
While the Kilimanjaro Machame Route 7 Days presents physical challenges in certain sections, climbers generally find it easier overall compared to the Marangu and Rongai routes. The route provides excellent acclimatization opportunities, with plenty of “walk-high, sleep-low” chances, helping climbers gradually adjust to the altitude.
The Kilimanjaro Machame Route 7 Days takes climbers through five distinct climatic zones, offering a varied and rewarding trekking experience. The route also provides a split pre-summit day, ensuring climbers rest before the final push to the summit. While the trail’s popularity means it can get busy, the stunning views and challenging terrain make it a must-do for adventurous climbers.
Tour Highlights
Departure and Return Place: Moshi Town to Machame Gate and then back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map)
Departure Time: Please be ready by 8:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
Return Time: Approximately 10:30 AM on the last day.
Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hats, cold-weather jackets, gloves, pants, and spare clothing.
Accommodation: Two nights of accommodations based on Bed and Breakfast at a 3-star hotel (upgrades on request).
Customizations: Can be customized upon request, to meet travelers’s needs
Extensions: Trip Extensions are available on request.
Trip Availability: All year round.
Included/Exclude
- Two-way private airport transfers
- All park fees collected by the National Park
- Hotel accommodations before and after the expedition
- Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro
- All meals on the hike
- All group camping equipment
- Oxygen cylinders and oximeters
- Complete Expedition medical kits
- Kilimanjaro licensed professional guides
- Hiking dedicated support crews
- Government taxes
- Crew salaries
- Medical evacuations with AMREF Flying doctors
- Purified water while on the mountain
- Portable tented private flush toilet
- Personal Climbing gears
- Tanzania Visa on arrival
- Mountaineering Insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
On Day 1, we begin our journey with a scenic 45-minute drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. The route takes us through Machame town, nestled on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. From the park entrance, we follow a winding trail that ascends a ridge, leading us into the lush rainforest.
At lower altitudes, the trail can be slick and muddy, so it's advisable to bring hiking poles and gaiters for better traction and comfort. After a short while of trekking through the dense rainforest, we'll arrive at Machame Camp, our resting spot for the night.
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3050m/9950ft
Distance: 11km/7mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
After an early breakfast, we leave behind the glades of the rainforest and begin our ascent. The trail gradually climbs, crossing a valley before tackling a steep, rocky slope. As we continue, the path turns west and descends into a river gorge. Eventually, we reach Shira Camp, where we will settle for the night and rest.
Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
From Shira Plateau, we head east, following a ridge and passing the junction that leads towards the summit of Kibo. Continuing southeast, we arrive at Lava Tower, also known as Shark’s Tooth (elevation: 4650m/15,250ft).
After taking in the views, we move on and reach the second junction, which leads to Arrow Glacier. From here, we begin our descent towards Barranco Camp.
Although the day ends at a similar elevation to where it started, this section is essential for acclimatization, helping your body prepare for the challenges of summit day.
Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we depart from Barranco Camp and tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep and challenging climb. This will bring us to the Karanga Valley, where we’ll connect with the Mweka Trail.
The journey provides stunning views and an excellent opportunity to test your skills and endurance as you ascend to new heights.
Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Climbing Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After a hearty breakfast, we ascend further to Barafu Camp. As we trek along the South Circuit, we enjoy a variety of stunning perspectives of the summit, offering ample photo opportunities and breathtaking views.
At Barafu Camp, we’ll set up camp, take some time to rest, and prepare for the challenging summit attempt the next day. After dinner, get an early rest to conserve energy for the climb ahead.
Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 4km/2mi
Climbing Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
We begin our ascent to Uhuru Peak between midnight and 2:00 AM, heading northwest towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section, traversing dense scree, is the most physically and mentally demanding part of the trek.
At Stella Point, we take a well-deserved rest and are treated to a breathtaking sunrise. Those who are quicker can enjoy the sunrise from the summit itself.
From Stella Point, it’s a one-hour trek to Uhuru Peak. Along the way, expect snow-covered terrain, which marks the final push to Africa’s highest point!
After reaching the summit, we begin our descent, heading straight down to Mweka Camp, with a lunch stop at Barafu. The descent can be tricky, with loose gravel, so trekking poles and gaiters will assist in keeping you steady.
Upon reaching Mweka Camp, we enjoy our final night on the mountain, celebrating our incredible achievement.
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5 km/3 mi up, 13 km/8 me down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up, 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we begin our descent towards Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. As we descend to lower altitudes, the trail can become muddy and damp, so it's a good idea to have trekking poles and gaiters to maintain stability. Dress comfortably in shorts and T-shirts, but keep your warm clothes and rain gear handy, as weather conditions can change quickly.
Upon reaching Mweka Gate, a Monkey Adventures van will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation in Moshi. The drive typically takes about 60 minutes, allowing you to reflect on your incredible Kilimanjaro journey.
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
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