The 7-Day Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular trekking routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a perfect balance of adventure and acclimatization. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it provides trekkers with stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glacial summits. Over seven days, you will gradually ascend through diverse ecological zones, allowing your body ample time to adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) successfully. This route is ideal for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb, with breathtaking views along the way, including the iconic Barranco Wall and the expansive Shira Plateau.
Your journey begins at the Machame Gate, where you trek through dense rainforest, spotting unique flora and wildlife before ascending to Shira Camp with its panoramic vistas. The route follows a climb-high, sleep-low approach, with highlights like the Lava Tower and the scenic Karanga Valley, crucial for acclimatization. The final ascent to the summit starts at midnight from Barafu Camp, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise over the African plains from Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, the descent follows the Mweka Route, offering a swift return through the lush lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. This 7-day trek is perfect for adventurous hikers looking for an unforgettable experience on Africa’s tallest mountain.
Any group size
Private group tour
Arusha
Arusha
12
A Perfect Balance of Challenge and Reward – The Machame Route is known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its moderately challenging nature, making it ideal for adventurous trekkers looking for both a test of endurance and an unforgettable journey. With gradual acclimatization over seven days, it offers a fulfilling yet achievable trek for those determined to conquer Africa’s highest peak.
Reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but what makes it truly special is the breathtaking sunrise you’ll witness as you stand on the roof of Africa. As the first rays of sunlight break over the horizon, illuminating the glaciers and vast plains below, the moment becomes an emotional and unforgettable highlight of the trip.
This trek is not just about reaching the summit—it’s about the experience of being part of a well-organized mountain expedition. A dedicated team of experienced guides, porters, and cooks ensures you have everything you need, from expertly prepared meals to motivational support, creating an incredible sense of camaraderie and adventure throughout the journey.
This route allows trekkers to experience an extraordinary transformation of landscapes, from the lush tropical rainforest at the base to the heath and moorland, followed by the alpine desert, and finally, the icy glaciers near the summit. Each day offers new scenery, wildlife, and terrain, making the adventure feel like trekking through different worlds within a single trip.
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Your adventure begins at Machame Gate, where you complete registration and meet your guides and porters. The trek starts with a scenic hike through the lush rainforest, home to unique wildlife, towering trees, and vibrant mosses. The trail is relatively moderate, with occasional steep sections, and takes about 5-7 hours to reach Machame Camp, your first overnight stop.
After breakfast, the trail ascends steeply through the forest before transitioning into heath and moorland. You will trek across rocky ridges, with beautiful views of Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak in the distance. This day involves a 4-6 hour hike, with increasing altitude but a steady pace, allowing for acclimatization. You’ll spend the night at Shira Camp, enjoying stunning sunset views over Mount Meru.
Today’s trek follows the climb-high, sleep-low strategy, crucial for acclimatization. You ascend gradually to Lava Tower (4,630m), a rocky outcrop where you take a lunch break and let your body adjust to the altitude. Afterward, you descend into the scenic Barranco Valley, passing through giant Senecio trees. The trek takes about 6-8 hours, and you will camp at Barranco Camp, surrounded by towering cliffs and glaciers.
Your day begins with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable scramble that offers rewarding views. The trail then undulates through alpine desert terrain, with a few short ascents and descents before reaching Karanga Camp after 4-5 hours of trekking. This is a shorter day, allowing for rest and acclimatization before the final push to higher altitudes.
The trek continues through barren, rocky landscapes, gradually ascending to Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The hike takes about 4-5 hours, and upon arrival, you’ll have an early dinner and rest, preparing for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak. Expect a cold night, but the excitement of reaching the top keeps spirits high.
Your summit push begins around midnight, trekking in the dark with headlamps under a sky full of stars. The climb is steep and physically demanding, taking 6-8 hours to reach Stella Point (5,756m), where you witness an incredible sunrise. A final 1-hour push leads you to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa! After celebrating and capturing memories, you descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) via Barafu, completing a 10-14 hour trekking day.
The final descent is a 3-4 hour trek through the lush rainforest, where you’ll likely see Colobus monkeys and diverse birdlife. At Mweka Gate, you receive your summit certificates before transferring back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and celebration of your incredible achievement.
This 7-day Machame Route is designed to maximize acclimatization and summit success while providing breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.
1 Person
2 people
3 people
4 people
5 people
6 people
7 people
$2,050
$1,570
$1,560
$1,550
$1,540
$1,530
$1,530
8 People
9 - 19 People
$1,530
$1,530
2 nights’ accommodation at Moshi or Arusha
All nights’ accommodation in Tents;
Professional, experienced, mountain;
All Park fees and Rescue fees;
All meals while on the Mountain;
Arrival and Departure transfers;
Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees;
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food;
Clean, purified drinking water;
Fair and ethical treatment of porters;
Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival;
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc;
Optional Tours;
Tips and any items of personal nature;
International and Local Flights;
Yellow fever vaccinations;
International flights: Check baggage allowance with your airline.
Domestic flights: Usually allow 15kg (33 lbs) of luggage, including carry-on.
Trekking gear:Porters will carry a duffel bag (max 15kg/33 lbs).
You can store extra luggage at your hotel in Moshi/Arusha.
A daypack (5–7kg/11–15 lbs) is recommended for essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.
Physical Preparation: The Machame Route is a strenuous trek, and we recommend training 2–3 months in advance with:Cardio workouts (running, cycling, swimming)
Strength training (leg and core exercises)
Hiking practice (with a weighted backpack)
Altitude Sickness: The route offers good acclimatization, but symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness can still occur.Prevention: Drink plenty of water, ascend slowly, and consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) with a doctor’s approval.
Tanzania’s weather varies based on the season and altitude.
Expect warm temperatures at lower altitudes and freezing conditions at the summit.
For a detailed packing list, we will provide a comprehensive checklist upon booking.
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