The best seven-(7)-days Kilimanjaro’s Climbing Machame full Package on 2025-2026
The best seven-(7)-days Kilimanjaro’s Climbing Machame full Package on 2025-2026 also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and adventurous paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This longer itinerary offers more time for acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching the summit. The route takes you through diverse landscapes, from tropical rainforest to alpine desert, providing breathtaking views and a rewarding trekking experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Transfer: To your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. In the evening, you’ll meet your guide for a pre-climb briefing, equipment check, and rest.
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi.
Day 2: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Machame Gate for registration. The trek begins through a dense rainforest with towering trees and lush greenery. You may encounter wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds along the way. The trail can be muddy and slippery but is relatively gentle. Arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight rest.
Day 3: Machame Camp (2,835m) to Shira Camp (3,750m)
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
The trail becomes steeper today as you leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone. The vegetation is sparser, and the terrain opens up, providing spectacular views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys. You’ll arrive at Shira Camp on the Shira Plateau, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views before settling in for the night.
Day 4: Shira Camp (3,750m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s trek is important for acclimatization as you ascend to Lava Tower at 4,630m, where you’ll stop for lunch and enjoy the stunning rock formation. Afterward, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, following the “climb high, sleep low” strategy, which helps your body adjust to the altitude. As you approach Barranco Valley, you’ll witness the imposing Barranco Wall.
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Begin the day by tackling the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that rewards you with spectacular views. After the climb, the trail undulates through rocky landscapes and alpine desert. You’ll reach Karanga Camp by early afternoon, where you’ll spend the night. This day also helps with acclimatization and prepares you for the final ascent.
Day 6: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today is a shorter trekking day but involves a gradual climb to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. You’ll arrive early to rest and prepare for the final push to the summit. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing your gear for the midnight ascent. Early dinner and early sleep are essential to get ready for the upcoming challenge.
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 17 km (5 km ascent, 12 km descent)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic, Alpine Desert, Moorland
The final summit push begins just after midnight. You’ll trek up the steep switchbacks to reach Stella Point (5,739m) at the crater rim. After a brief rest, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Enjoy the sunrise and take photos before descending back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and then continuing down to Mweka Camp.
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
On your final day, you’ll descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
Includes:
Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
Airport Transfers
Meals according to the itinerary
Drinking water and Full Board Meals
All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
Gate Transfers
Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
Quality Imported Equipments
Excludes:
Flights
Visa fees
Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation
Gamow Bag
Medication
Tips for porters and mountain crew (20% Industry Standard Recommended)
Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain $150 per room
