7 Days Machame Route: Ultimate Kilimanjaro Climb Experience

7-day Machame route itinerary

Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly staff and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you will meet your guide for a thorough briefing and preparation session. This day allows you to rest, acclimatize to the new environment, and ensure you have all necessary gear for the climb.

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Your adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate, where you will complete registration formalities. The trek starts through the lush rainforest, offering a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the vibrant vegetation. The trail gradually ascends to Machame Camp, situated at 2,835 meters.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

After a hearty breakfast, you will leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone. The path becomes steeper and rockier as you ascend, with stunning views of the Shira Plateau. By the end of the day, you will reach Shira Camp at 3,750 meters, where you can relax and acclimate.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Today’s trek involves a long, steady climb towards the Lava Tower, an iconic rock formation at 4,600 meters. This is a critical day for acclimatization as you hike high and sleep low. After reaching Lava Tower, you will descend to the Barranco Valley and arrive at Barranco Camp, set at 3,960 meters. The descent provides a welcome relief after the strenuous climb.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

The day begins with the daunting Barranco Wall, a steep climb that requires some scrambling but is entirely achievable with your guide’s support. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s glaciers. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley, ending at Karanga Camp at 4,035 meters.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Today’s trek to Barafu Camp is shorter but still challenging, as you make your way through the alpine desert. The landscape becomes increasingly barren, with little vegetation but expansive views. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, situated at 4,640 meters, you will rest and prepare for the summit attempt. An early dinner and a good night’s sleep are crucial.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit and Back to Mweka Camp

You will start your summit attempt around midnight, ascending through the Arctic-like zone to Stella Point at 5,739 meters. After a short rest, you will continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. After celebrating your achievement and taking photos, you will descend back to Barafu Camp for a short break before continuing to Mweka Camp at 3,080 meters.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Departure

The final day involves a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have time to explore Moshi before your flight home.

Park fee

Rescue fee

Mountain Guide

Cook

Porters

Accommodations during hike

Delicious meals

Accommodations in Moshi before and after safari

Airport Pick-up and Drop-off

Flights (International and Domestic)

Visa

Health Insurance

Tips