Arusha , Tanzania

7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Machame Route

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(15 reviews)

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About this experience

Machame route is the most popular path. It is the route of choice for many people because it provides impressive views and a variety of habitats. About 50% of all climbers, especially the seasoned climbers, prefer the Machame route for summiting Kilimanjaro.

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7 DAYS KILIMANJARO CLIMB MACHAME ROUTE

What's included

3 Season mountain tents

Transportation to & from the mountain gate

Pre & Post Trek accommodation at the hotel in moshi

Lunch

Dinner

Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters

Breakfast

Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees

2- way private airport transfers

Coffee and/or Tea

Filtered water throughout the trek

3 meals daily while on the mountain

Bottled water

Snacks

18% VAT on tour fees & services

Double layered Sleeping Mats

What you'll see

Among the most popular routes, Machame is preferred by the majority of the tourists became of the impressive views all around and variety of habitats. Most seasoned climbers which make up 50% of all the climbers choose this route.

The Machame route is nicknamed “The Whiskey Route” which is in contrast to the nickname of Marangu Route “Coca-Cola route.” It is so because Machame is a relatively difficult route to climb, and as opposed to Marangu where there is gradual incline and hut accommodations, there is a lack of such facilities in Machame and trekkers have to sleep in tents.

The climbing journey in Machame Route takes about six days and five nights, however seven days and six nights is set aside for better acclimatization purposes. The trek begins at Machame Gate which is located in the southern base of the mountain within a dense lush rainforest. The route heads toward the Shira Plateau, before circling along the southern circuit halfway around the mountain, exposing the climber to great views from all angles. The approach to the summit is made from the east, and the descent follows the Mweka trail.

When measured from gate to gate, Machame Route is approximately 62 km in length. This route is recommended for people with some trekking experience and who are physically fit. The table below presents the variation of the entire 7 day Machame climb from starting to finish points including altitude, distance, and total hiking time. This is considered the ideal Machame route variation

What's not included

Flights

Tips to mountain crew

Items of a personal nature

Laundry Services

Any service not mentioned above

Portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is extra (US$65 per toilet + toilet tent)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Written guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Day 1: Drive To Kilimanjaro National Park Machame Gate, Hike To Machame Camp

After a breakfast, you will be briefed on what to expect during the hiking and some secrets behind concurring the summit. And then one hour drive from Moshi town to Machame village (1490m). Guides and porters will pack your gears and food at the village. You will also be given lunch packs and mineral water at the village, which will save you as you spend seven (7) hours walking to the next stopover (Machame hut). After you have completed the registration process at the gate, you will then kick start the enjoyable hiking and will reach the Machame hut late in the afternoon. Accommodations on the mountain are tents.

Day 2: Hike Machame Camp To Shira Camp

We leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path up to a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.

Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft

Distance: 5 km/3 miles

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Heath

Day 3: Hike Shira – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Following a ridge, we move east and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower which is a 300 feet tall volcanic rock formation. We’ll be descending down to Barraco Camp following the beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. You’ll be beginning and ending the day approximately at the same elevation, but the time spend in this altitude is beneficial for acclimatizing your body.

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower

Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft

Distance: 7 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft

Distance: 3 km/2 miles

Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4: Hike Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

We’ll begin our day with a descending trek into a ravine which is located at the base of the Great Barranco Wall. We’ll be climbing a 900 ft cliff which is non-technical in nature, but steep. Through a series of hills and valleys, we descend sharply into the Karanga Valley. Another set of steep climb will lead us to Karanga Camp. A short day means it is good for acclimatization.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft

Distance: 5 km/3 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. This will mark the completion of southern circuit which provided excellent view from many different angles. We’ll set up our camp here and rest for the day. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and prepare for the next summit day. Peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are easily spotted in here.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft

Distance: 4 km/2 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak

Just past midnight, we’ll begin our summit to the top. This is considered the most challenging part of the journey when the wind and cold can be extreme at any period of the day. With short and frequent breaks, we ascend in the darkness. Once reaching at the Stella Point which is at an elevation of 18,900 ft, you’ll be rewarded with one of the stunning view of the sunrise coming over the Mawenzi Peak. After spending some time at Stella Point, we continue on to the roof of Africa, the Uhuru Peak.

As we descend from the summit, we climb down to the Mweka Hut Camp site, making a brief stop at Barafu for our lunch. The trail is rocky which can be stressful for the knees. In this scenario, trekking poles will be really helpful. The camp is situated in the upper forest where mist and rain in the late afternoon are common occurrence. Late in the evening, we’ll have our last dinner on the mountain and will relax for the rest of the day.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak

Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft

Distance: 5 km/3 miles

Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft

Distance: 12 km/7 miles

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate

On our last day, we’ll be descending down to the Mweka Gate where we’ll collect our summit certificates. AThe lower reaches can be muddy and wet depending upon rain. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. Youth Adventures and Safaris vehicle will meet you at Mweka Gate and transfer you to the hotel in Moshi.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

Distance: 10 km/6 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

About Arusha

Arusha is a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru in northern Tanzania. Known as the gateway to some of Africa's most famous national parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it offers a blend of urban amenities and natural wonders. The city is also a cultural melting pot, with a mix of African, Arab, and European influences.

Top Attractions

Mount Meru

Mount Meru is an active volcano and the second-highest peak in Tanzania. It offers challenging treks and stunning views.

Nature 2-3 days for trekking Moderate

Arusha National Park

This compact park offers a variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes. It's a great place for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

Serengeti National Park

One of the most famous national parks in the world, the Serengeti is known for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant wildlife.

Nature Full day to multi-day safari Expensive

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife.

Nature Full day to multi-day safari Expensive

Tarangire National Park

Known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire offers a unique safari experience.

Nature Full day Moderate

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre

This center showcases the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania, with a focus on the Maasai and other local tribes.

Cultural 1-2 hours Low

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali

A thick porridge made from cornmeal, often served with stews or sauces.

Staple food Vegetarian

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, often served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad).

Main dish Contains meat

Pilau

A spiced rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat

Mandazi

Sweet fried dough, often served with tea.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Trekking Mount Meru Safari in Serengeti National Park Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti Visit Lake Momella Coffee tasting at local cafes Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visit Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre Cultural tour of Mto wa Mbu

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season, offering the best wildlife viewing conditions. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F