The Best Seven (7)-Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route for 2025
Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Offering diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glaciers, this seven-day itinerary provides trekkers with an unforgettable experience. With a well-paced climb and breathtaking views, the Machame Route is ideal for those seeking adventure and a rewarding journey to Uhuru Peak.
Why Choose Our 7-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour?
Scenic and Adventurous Route
The Machame Route offers unparalleled views and a rich diversity of landscapes. From the dense rainforests at the base to the breathtaking vistas near the summit, every step of the journey provides something new and stunning.
Expert-Guided Treks
Our experienced and knowledgeable guides are certified professionals with extensive high-altitude trekking experience. They prioritize your safety while sharing fascinating insights about the mountain’s ecosystem and geology.
High Summit Success Rate
Due to the route’s length and the gradual ascent, climbers have a higher chance of reaching the summit compared to shorter routes. Our itinerary also includes an acclimatization day to boost summit success rates.
Comfort and Safety
We provide high-quality camping equipment, nutritious meals, and health monitoring throughout the trek. Your comfort and safety are always our top priorities, ensuring you enjoy every moment of your adventure.
Personalized Experience
Whether you’re a first-time climber or a seasoned adventurer, we tailor our support to your needs. We help you prepare with gear recommendations, training tips, and a pre-climb briefing.
Itinerary for the 7-Day Machame Route
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, you’ll meet your guide for a full briefing on the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)
After breakfast, we drive to the Machame Gate for registration. The hike begins through the lush rainforest, where you’ll spot unique flora and fauna. The day ends at Machame Camp, set in the lower moorlands.
Day 3: Machame Camp (3,000m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)
The trail leads out of the forest and onto the Shira Plateau, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the mountain’s glaciers. The gradual ascent gives you time to acclimatize while enjoying the rocky terrain.
Day 4: Shira Camp (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Today’s trek involves hiking to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. The day helps your body adjust to the altitude, which increases the likelihood of summit success. Barranco Camp offers spectacular views of the towering Barranco Wall.
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
You’ll tackle the iconic Barranco Wall today, a thrilling but non-technical climb. After the ascent, the trail eases as you continue to Karanga Camp, a great spot for acclimatization.
Day 6: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,670m)
The final push towards the summit begins with a gradual hike to Barafu Camp. You’ll arrive in the afternoon and rest in preparation for the midnight summit attempt. After dinner, you’ll sleep early to regain strength for the climb to the top.
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,670m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
The summit attempt starts around midnight. You’ll hike up steep terrain toward Stella Point (5,739m) before making the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Today’s trek takes you through the rainforest once again as you make your way to Mweka Gate. After signing out, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey or continue exploring Tanzania.
Inclusions
- All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides
- Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
- Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
- Sleeping Mattress
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
- Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
- Clean, purified drinking water
- Conservation fees (part of park fees)
- Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
- Rescue fees (part of park fees)
- VAT (18% charged by the Government)
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Exclusions
- Tanzania Visa
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel (available as an optional addon)
- Transfers (available as an optional addon)
- Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
- Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
FAQs
Is the Machame Route difficult?
The Machame Route is considered moderately challenging, with a longer, gradual ascent that helps with acclimatization. It’s perfect for trekkers with a reasonable fitness level.
How is the Machame Route different from other Kilimanjaro routes?
The Machame Route is scenic, offering diverse landscapes, and has a higher summit success rate due to the acclimatization time built into the itinerary.
What is the best time to climb the Machame Route?
The best times to climb are during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October. These periods offer better weather conditions and clearer views.
Book Your Kilimanjaro Adventure for 2025
Experience the beauty and thrill of Mount Kilimanjaro with our expertly guided 7-day Machame Route climb. Secure your spot today for the 2025 climbing season and take the first step toward conquering Africa’s highest peak!
