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Plan your unforgettable adventure to Kilimanjaro. Trek the Machame Route for stunning views and high success rates during your climb.
Known as the "Whiskey Route," the Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular ways to reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak. Over 7 days, you'll journey through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests and alpine meadows to dramatic lava ridges and icy glaciers. This route allows for excellent acclimatization and offers panoramic views across the Shira Plateau and toward Mount Meru. Whether you're an experienced trekker or taking on Kilimanjaro for the first time, the Machame Route delivers an unforgettable mix of challenge, beauty, and achievement.
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Itineraries
Day 1
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Drive about 49 minutes from Moshi town through scenic Machame Village at Kilimanjaro’s foothills.
Begin your trek at Machame Gate, escorted by your guide and porters.
The hike climbs steadily through dense, lush rainforest with the sounds of birds and monkeys around you.
Overnight: Reach Machame Camp, your first night at 9,350 ft, where you can relax and enjoy dinner in the fresh mountain air.
Elevation: 5,380 ft → 9,350 ft
Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2
Machame Camp to Shira Cave
Terrain Change, Leaving the rainforest behind, the landscape opens up into the heath and moorland zone.
Trek across the Shira Plateau, a vast high-altitude plateau with dramatic views of Kibo Peak.
Campsite: Set up at Shira 2 Camp, located near a river gorge, perfect for enjoying a peaceful evening surrounded by stunning vistas.
Elevation: 9,350 ft → 12,500 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Heath
Day 3
Shira Cave to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Challenging Day, Start hiking towards the imposing Lava Tower, a massive volcanic rock standing about 1 km tall.
Pass through the high alpine desert with scattered giant Senecio plants and expansive views.
Descend to Barranco Camp, located at 13,044 ft, which helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Evening: Enjoy a well-deserved dinner and rest while watching the sunset paint the mountain peaks.
Elevation: 15,190 ft → 13,044 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Begin the day by tackling the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical 900 ft climb using footholds and handrails.
After the wall, traverse a series of rolling hills and valleys toward the Karanga Valley.
Spend the night at Karanga Camp to help your body adapt to the thinner air at over 13,000 ft.
Savor a warm meal and share stories with fellow trekkers under a starry sky.
Elevation: 13,044 ft → 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Trek from Karanga to the Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt.
Marvel at panoramic vistas of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks as you approach.
Settle in at Barafu (meaning “ice” in Swahili), where the mountain’s icy summit feels close.
Early dinner and rest to prepare for the challenging summit day ahead.
Elevation: 13,106 ft → 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6
Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin your summit climb around midnight to avoid harsh midday weather and to catch the sunrise at the top.
Push through the cold, wind, and steep terrain up to Stella Point on the crater rim (18,900 ft).
Experience a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak, an unforgettable moment.
Reach Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft), the highest point in Africa, celebrate this incredible achievement!
Begin the long descent to Mweka Camp, stopping for lunch at Barafu Camp.
In the evening relax with your team after a tough but rewarding day.
Elevation: 15,331 ft → 19,341 ft → 10,065 ft
Distance: 5 km up / 12 km down (total 17 km)
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent, 4–6 hours descent
Habitats: Arctic (summit), Rainforest (Mweka Camp)
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Trek through lush rainforest on the last day, enjoying the rich biodiversity.
Arrive at Mweka Gate where you receive your summit certificates, marking your accomplishment.
Vehicle transfer back to Moshi town, concluding your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Be prepared for possible rain and muddy paths as you near the base.
Elevation: 10,065 ft → 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Professional, English-speaking guide
Well-equipped mountain crew
Meals and drinking water
National Park fees and permits
Airport transfers
Gate transfers
Flights
Visa fees
Travel or Medical Insurance
Personal spending money
Tips for porters and crew
Personal hire gear
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