- Leen Adventures
- Kilimanjaro Tours
7-Day Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route
- Mount Kilimanjaro
Duration
7 days
Max People
12+
Min Age
9+
Tour Type
Kilimanjaro Tours
Overview
The Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its challenging nature compared to the “Coca-Cola Route” (Marangu), it offers breathtaking views and varied ecological zones—from lush rainforest to alpine desert and glacial summit. This route allows excellent acclimatization, significantly improving summit success rates.
This 7-day adventure is designed for those seeking both a physically demanding trek and the reward of panoramic landscapes. The trail gradually climbs from the southern rainforest slopes through volcanic ridges and across the vast Shira Plateau, eventually joining with the Lemosho and Umbwe routes before ascending the famed Barranco Wall and summiting via Stella Point and Uhuru Peak.
With expert mountain guides, porters, and camp crew, you’ll be well-supported throughout the journey. The trek includes full-board mountain camping accommodation, professional safety monitoring, and a deep immersion into one of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences.
Tour Highlights
- Departure & Return Place: Start/end from any hotel in Moshi/Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map)
- Departure Time: Be ready by 7:00 AM for a 7:30 AM departure
- Return Time: Approximately 3:00 PM
- Dress Code: Technical hiking gear, layers, gloves, and thermal clothing
- Customizations: Itinerary can be tailored to your pace or extended
- Extensions: Safari or Zanzibar beach holidays available upon request
- Best Season: June to October (dry and clear) or January to March (warm and less crowded)
- Support: Expert guides, porters, cooks, and around-the-clock support from your travel team
What to Expect on Tour
You’ll hike through five distinct climate zones: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic summit, and then descend back to lush forest. This route provides time for proper acclimatization, improving summit success. Expect early starts, long days, and physical challenges—but also the reward of jaw-dropping scenery, camaraderie, and personal accomplishment. Your support crew will set up camp, prepare hot meals, and ensure your safety every step of the way.
The highlight is reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, with 360° views over glaciers, volcanic ridges, and the expansive plains below. Many trekkers describe this as a life-changing journey—not just for the views, but for the resilience and spirit it requires.
Includes/Excludes
- Professional guides licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park
- All meals on the hike
- 2-night accommodation in lodge.
- Oxygen cylinders and oximeters
- Complete Expedition medical kits
- Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority.
- Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.)
- Portable tented private flush toilet
- International Flights.
- All items of a personal nature.
- Tips and Gratuities
- Personal climbing gears
- Drinks and Beverage at Lodge during Safari
- Travel insurance we are highly recommends.
- Single Supplement (Single room) will be $150 per person.
- Visa fee (50 US$ /100 US$ for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival).
📍 Day 1:Machame Gate (1,800 m) – Machame Camp (3,000 m)
Drive to Machame Gate where permits are issued and porters pack gear. Begin the trek through lush montane rainforest with chances to spot blue monkeys and colorful flora. The trail gradually ascends to Machame Camp. Tents will be ready on arrival, and your cook will prepare a hot dinner before rest.
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Machame Camp (Tented)
📍 Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840 m)
Start with a steep climb leaving the rainforest behind. Enter moorland zone with low vegetation, volcanic rock formations, and distant mountain views. The hike is short but strenuous, ending at Shira Plateau. Explore the area or rest while enjoying sweeping views of Kibo Peak and Shira Cathedral before dinner.
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Shira Camp (Tented)
📍 Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp (3,950 m)
Climb higher to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Valley. This is a key acclimatization day with a dramatic shift in landscape to alpine desert. The descent to Barranco Camp allows for better sleep and adaptation. Enjoy views of the massive Barranco Wall and surrounding glaciers.
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Barranco Camp (Tented)
📍 Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035 m)
Today’s highlight is the thrilling climb up Barranco Wall, a fun scramble with stunning rewards. The trail then winds through ridges and valleys with views of icefields and peaks. Arrive at Karanga Camp for rest, acclimatization, and a hot meal. This is the shortest hike and vital for summit preparation.
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Karanga Camp (Tented)
📍 Day 5:Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640 m)
Ascend gradually across rocky alpine desert to Barafu Camp, your base camp before the summit. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing gear. An early dinner is served before you sleep for a few hours. Wake at midnight for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak under the stars.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp (Tented)
📍 Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,100 m)
Summit day begins at midnight. Hike in silence under starlight to Stella Point, then push to Uhuru Peak for sunrise views above Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend carefully to Barafu, rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
- Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Mweka Camp (Tented)
📍Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha/Moshi
A final descent through lush forest leads to Mweka Gate where summit certificates are awarded. Celebrate your success with the crew before returning to Moshi for a hot shower, rest, and optional celebration dinner. You’ve just climbed the tallest mountain in Africa!
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
- Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged)
How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route?
You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but good physical condition is essential. The Machame Route involves steep climbs and long trekking days. Training with cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking at altitude helps a lot. Mental endurance is just as important as physical fitness on summit day.
What is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months for climbing are January to early March and June to October. These periods offer the clearest weather, more stable conditions, and better trail accessibility. While Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, avoiding the rainy seasons in April–May and November is ideal for safety and comfort.
Is altitude sickness common and how is it managed?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness. The Machame Route is designed for gradual acclimatization, and your guide will monitor symptoms closely. Drinking water, walking slowly, and following the itinerary help reduce risk. In serious cases, descent is the primary treatment, and guides are trained for emergencies.
What gear do I need to bring?
You’ll need layered clothing for cold weather, a good sleeping bag, waterproof gear, hiking boots, trekking poles, and a headlamp. A detailed packing list will be provided. Tents, sleeping mats, and cooking equipment are included in the trek, and gear rentals are available if you’re missing anything.
How are meals prepared and what dietary options are available?
Our mountain chef prepares nutritious meals including soup, pasta, rice, meat, vegetables, and fruits. Meals are designed to provide energy and aid acclimatization. We cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice. All meals are freshly cooked and served in a dining tent or camp.
What kind of support staff will accompany the climb?
Each trek includes a team of local guides, porters, and a cook. The ratio is typically 1 guide for every 2–3 climbers, plus support staff to carry your gear, pitch tents, and cook meals. This team is crucial to your comfort and safety and is certified and experienced in high-altitude trekking.
What happens if I can’t continue the climb?
If you experience severe altitude sickness or fatigue, your guide will assess your condition and recommend whether to continue or descend. Safety is the top priority. A separate support team can escort you down while others continue. We plan for contingencies so you’re always supported, even if plans change.
Pricing
| Number of People | Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,100 |
| 2 people | $1,250 |
| 3 people | $1,060 |
| 4 people | $940 |
| 5 people | $890 |
| 6–10 people | $840 |
Accommodation
| Tour Day | Budget Camping Package | Standard Package |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Outpost Lodge / Tulia Boutique Hotel / Green Mountain Hotel | Ilboru Safari Lodge / Arusha Planet Lodge / Airport Planet Lodge |
| Day 2 | Lilac Campsite / Panorama Campsite | Eileen’s Tree Inn / Endoro Lodge / Karatu Simba Lodge |
Price
From
$1830
Book this Tour
You may also like
5 Days Calving Season Safari
6-Day Family Safari Escape: Discover Tanzania Together
Kikuletwa Hot Spring Day Tour (Chemka Hot Springs)
