Climb Kilimanjaro in 7 Days Machame Route
Embark on an unparalleled adventure with our 7-day Machame Route climb of Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Traverse through breathtaking landscapes, from verdant rainforests to snow-covered summits, and challenge yourself to reach the top with the guidance of our seasoned experts.
Our meticulously planned Machame Route itinerary maximizes your chances of success while allowing time for acclimatization. You’ll start at Machame Gate and ascend through diverse ecological zones, including rainforest, heathland, and alpine desert. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique flora and fauna, such as giant lobelias and various bird species.
The climax of the climb is the summit attempt, where you’ll begin your ascent around midnight and aim to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. Although the final stretch is demanding, the views from the summit are spectacular and the sense of achievement is unparalleled.
Our skilled guides will support you throughout the journey, providing motivation and assistance. We’ll handle all the logistics, including transportation, accommodation, and meals, allowing you to concentrate on the climb.
Upon completing the trek, you’ll receive a summit certificate to mark your achievement. You’ll return home with lasting memories and stories of an extraordinary adventure.
Highlights of the 7-Day Machame Route Climb
- Explore the Rainforest: On Day 2, hike through dense rainforest and witness the distinctive flora and fauna. Look out for colobus monkeys and other wildlife!
- Conquer the Barranco Wall: On Day 4, tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep and exhilarating section of the trail offering incredible views.
- Summit Uhuru Peak: The goal is to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. The final ascent begins around midnight on Day 7, with the aim to reach the summit by sunrise. The panoramic views from the top are truly awe-inspiring!
- Experienced Guides and Support Staff: Our knowledgeable guides and support team will be with you throughout the climb, offering guidance, support, and ensuring your safety. We are committed to delivering exceptional service.
What to Expect on the Machame Route
The Machame Route is a demanding climb, requiring good physical fitness and experience with high-altitude trekking. The trek involves long days of walking, and you should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.
Packing List for the Machame Route
- Warm sleeping bag
- Insulated jacket
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Backpack
7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trek + Pre-Trek Briefing
Day 0: Pre-Trek Briefing
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. We recommend arriving at least one day before your trek. Today includes a detailed pre-trek briefing, gear check, and rental assistance.
Day 1: Hotel to Machame Camp
Drive from Arusha to Machame Gate. Trek through lush rainforest to Machame Camp.
Elevation: 1830m to 3050m
Distance: 11 km
Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Ascend through moorlands and ridges to Shira Camp with views of Kibo Peak.
Elevation: 3050m to 3850m
Distance: 5 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Climb to Lava Tower (4630m) and descend to Barranco Camp for acclimatization.
Elevation: 3850m to 4000m (via 4630m)
Distance: 10 km
Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Climb the scenic Barranco Wall and trek through valleys to Karanga Camp.
Elevation: 4000m to 4050m
Distance: 5 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Continue the ascent toward Barafu Camp. Rest and prepare for the summit push.
Elevation: 4050m to 4700m
Distance: 4 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Barafu to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin the summit climb at midnight, reach Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp.
Elevation: 4700m to 5895m, then down to 3100m
Distance: 5 km up, 13 km down
Time: 5–7 hrs up, 5–6 hrs down
Habitat: Scree & summit glacier
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi
Complete your descent through the forest. Collect your summit certificate and transfer to your Moshi hotel.
Elevation: 3100m to 1680m
Distance: 10 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions
- Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro and Moshi hotel
- Professional English-speaking mountain guides
- Park entry, camping, conservation & rescue fees
- High-quality four-season tents & sleeping mats
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
- All meals during the trek
- Mess tents with tables and chairs
- Purified drinking water
- 18% VAT (government tax)
- Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Exclusions
- Tanzania visa
- International/domestic flights
- Hotel accommodation (optional add-on)
- Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, calls, etc.)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Meals not listed
- Online payment surcharge (5%)
Trek Pricing – USD per Person
Group Size | Price Per Person |
---|---|
Solo Trekker | $2,520 |
Group of 2 | $2,381 |
Group of 3 | $2,300 |
Group of 4 | $2,250 |
Group of 5 | $2,206 |
Group of 6 | $2,183 |
Group of 7 | $2,103 |
Group of 8 | $1,971 |
Group of 9 | $1,904 |
Group of 10+ | $1,856 |