The 7-day Machame Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most popular and scenic trekking trails, offering dramatic landscapes, varied ecosystems, and excellent acclimatization. Known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its challenging nature, Machame provides a rewarding climb for trekkers seeking adventure, diversity, and the highest summit success rate among camping routes.
This 7-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Karanga Camp, significantly enhancing your ability to adapt to altitude and increasing the likelihood of reaching Uhuru Peak. The route ascends through lush rainforest, crosses moorland ridges, passes beneath the Lava Tower, and traverses the Southern Circuit before the final summit push via Barafu Camp.
For climbers who enjoy scenic trails, a well-paced ascent, and varied terrain, the 7-day Machame Route is an excellent choice for a successful and memorable Kilimanjaro experience.
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Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a full briefing and gear check. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the climb ahead.
Your journey begins at Machame Gate, where procedures and registrations are completed. The trail starts with a steady climb through dense rainforest, rich with birdlife, ferns, and towering trees draped in moss. The path is sometimes muddy, adding to the adventure.
Arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon, settle into your tents, and enjoy a hot meal.
Today’s trek leads out of the rainforest and into the heather moorland, featuring volcanic rocks and unique vegetation. The trail is shorter but steeper as you ascend to the Shira Plateau, a vast high-altitude desert with sweeping views.
Arrive at Shira Camp, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Shira Ridge.
Today follows the crucial “hike high, sleep low” acclimatization strategy. Trek upward toward the impressive Lava Tower at 4,600m, where you’ll pause for lunch.
After acclimatizing at high altitude, descend to Barranco Camp, one of the most scenic camps on the route, set beneath the spectacular Barranco Wall.
Start the morning with the thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep ascent offering dramatic views. Traverse beneath Heim and Kersten glaciers before descending into the Karanga Valley.
A short climb leads to Karanga Camp, where you rest and acclimatize.
Ascend steadily through the alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The trail becomes rockier and windswept as you gain altitude.
Arrive early to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight summit push.
Begin the summit climb around midnight. The ascent to Stella Point is steep and demanding, but the reward is the breathtaking sunrise glowing over the glaciers.
Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Barafu Camp for rest, then continue down through moorland to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Descend through the lush rainforest, enjoying the warmth and vibrant greenery. At Mweka Gate, complete park formalities and receive your summit certificate.
Your driver will transfer you to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and celebration.
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If you are continuing on safari or Zanzibar, we will assist with seamless onward arrangements.
Your 7-day Machame Route adventure concludes with pride, accomplishment, and unforgettable memories from the Roof of Africa.
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
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$ 1,473
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$ 2,000
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$ 1,658
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$ 2,700
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$ 2,700
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$ 1,950
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