Overview

The 7-Day Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular ways to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Known as the “Whiskey Route” for its adventurous nature, this trek offers diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glacier-clad peaks. The route is ideal for trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb, with ample time for acclimatization to improve summit success rates.

Best Time to Visit: June to October, December to February (dry seasons for clear skies and better trail conditions)

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Activities:
  • Arrive in Moshi and check into your hotel.
  • Meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing and equipment check.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Moshi, such as Springlands Hotel or Ameg Lodge.
Meals:

• Dinner: Traditional Tanzanian dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat) or vegetarian options.

Recovery: Relax and prepare for the upcoming trek.

Day 2: Moshi to Machame Camp (2,835 m)

• Distance: ~11 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~1,200 m
• Terrain: Rainforest trails.

Highlights:

• Drive to Machame Gate for registration and the trek’s start.
• Hike through lush rainforest, encountering colobus monkeys and unique flora.

Accommodation: Machame Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Hotel-provided.
• Lunch: Packed picnic on the trail.
• Dinner: Hot meal prepared by the trekking chef.

Recovery: Rest under the forest canopy, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,750 m)

• Distance: ~6 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~915 m
• Terrain: Moorland with rocky paths and stunning vistas.

Highlights:

• Trek through Kilimanjaro’s heather and moorland zone.
• Arrive at Shira Plateau, with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.

Accommodation: Shira Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Hot porridge, eggs, and toast.
• Lunch: Packed meal en route.
• Dinner: Warm, energy-rich meal at camp.

Recovery: Acclimatize and enjoy the mountain’s spectacular sunsets.

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

• Distance: ~10 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~210 m (after ascending higher during the trek).
• Terrain: Alpine desert with steep sections.

Highlights:

• Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630 m) for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp.
• Marvel at the dramatic landscapes, including views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.

Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Freshly prepared by your chef.
• Lunch: Packed meal near Lava Tower.
• Dinner: Hot dinner at camp.

Recovery: Acclimatize at lower altitudes to improve summit success chances.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

• Distance: ~5 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~75 m
• Terrain: Steep climbs and rolling trails.

Highlights:

• Tackle the iconic Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb.
• Traverse ridges and valleys with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s southern icefields.

Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Energy-packed meal.
• Lunch: Hot meal served en route.
• Dinner: High-carb dinner to fuel the next day’s trek.

Recovery: Rest and acclimatize for the final ascent stages.

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640 m)

• Distance: ~4 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~605 m
• Terrain: Rocky alpine desert.

Highlights:

• Arrive at Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt.
• Prepare your gear and rest before the midnight climb.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Warm porridge, tea, and bread.
• Lunch: Packed meal on the trail.
• Dinner: High-energy dinner at camp.

Recovery: Early rest to prepare for the summit push.

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Down to Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

• Distance: ~5 km ascent to Uhuru Peak, ~12 km descent to Mweka Camp.
• Estimated Trekking Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 5-6 hours descent.
• Elevation Gain: ~1,255 m (ascent), ~2,815 m (descent).

Highlights:

• Begin your midnight trek to Uhuru Peak, reaching Africa’s highest point at sunrise.
• Descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp.

Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Light snacks during the summit climb.
• Breakfast and lunch at Barafu Camp.
• Dinner at Mweka Camp.

Recovery: Celebrate your achievement and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Moshi

• Distance: ~10 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 3-4 hours descent.

Highlights:

• Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate for a certificate ceremony.
• Transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory meal.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Moshi.
Meals:

• Breakfast: At Mweka Camp.
• Lunch: Packed lunch en route.
• Dinner: Optional celebration dinner in Moshi.

Tour Highlights

1. Scenic Variety: Traverse rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
2. Dramatic Landscapes: Stunning views of the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and southern icefields.
3. Acclimatization Benefits: A 7-day itinerary increases your chances of reaching the summit.
4. Cultural Insights: Learn from experienced guides and porters about Kilimanjaro’s unique environment.
5. Unforgettable Summit: Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Accommodations

• Tents on the Trail: Comfortable, weatherproof tents with sleeping mats provided.
• Hotels in Moshi: Comfortable mid-range or luxury options for pre- and post-trek stays.

Meals

• Prepared by experienced mountain chefs, with a focus on high-energy meals.
• Breakfasts: Porridge, eggs, toast, and tea/coffee.
• Lunches: Packed meals or hot dishes at camp.
• Dinners: Soups, stews, pasta, rice, and other carb-rich dishes.
• Dietary preferences accommodated upon request.

Who Is This Tour For?

• Adventurers seeking a scenic and rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.
• First-time climbers who want an itinerary with good acclimatization time.
• Travelers looking for a mix of challenge and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Features

• Trekking Distance: ~62 km round-trip.
• Inclusions:
  • Park fees and permits.
  • Professional guides, porters, and cooks.
  • Tents and meals during the trek.
  • Transfers to and from the trailhead.
• Exclusions:
  • Personal trekking gear (available for rent).
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cooks.
  • Optional oxygen tanks or altitude chambers.

Pricing Estimate

Cost: $2,000–$3,000 USD per person, depending on:

• Group size (discounts for larger groups).
• Accommodation type in Moshi.
• Additional gear rentals or add-ons.