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7 Days

Machame Route

Overview
Summary
Itinerary
Includes & Excludes
Plan Your Safari

7 Days Machame Route

The 7-day Machame Route is a popular and scenic path up Mount Kilimanjaro, passing through rainforests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts. Starting from Machame Gate, it offers gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization with an extra day at Barranco Camp. Trekkers enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and vast plains throughout this unforgettable adventure.

Tour Summary & Map

Day 1 – Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Day 2 – Machame Camp to Shira Camp 2

Day 3 – Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Day 5 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Kosovo Camp

Day 6 – Kosovo Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Mweka Camp

Day 7 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Machame Gate to Machame Camp (11km)

Machame Gate to Machame Camp (11km)

Start your Kilimanjaro adventure with a 1.5-hour drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, where you’ll meet your team of guides, porters, and cooks. After completing registration, go on your first day’s trek. The hike begins in Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest, where moss-covered trees and vibrant flora will greet you. As you ascend, the vegetation gradually changes, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Reach Machame Camp for your first night under the stars, with Kibo Peak looming above in the distance.

Overnight: Machame Camp

Day 2 - Machame Camp to Shira Camp 2 (5km)

Machame Camp to Shira Camp 2 (5km)

Today’s trek is considered one of the easier days but still includes some uphill sections. The trail takes you through diverse vegetation, with views of both Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. As you gain altitude, the trees give way to alpine plants like Scenecio kilimanjari and Lobelia deckenii. Lunch is served on the way, followed by a steady climb to Shira Camp. This camp offers panoramic views of Kibo to the west and Mount Meru to the east, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Overnight: Shira Camp 2

Day 3 - Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (10km)

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (10km)

Today’s trek is essential for acclimatization. The day starts with a hike across the Shira Plateau, followed by a steep ascent to Lava Tower (4,530m). This is the highest point of the day, but soon after, you will descend to Barranco Camp. Although you end the day at a lower elevation than you started, the hike helps your body adjust to the altitude. The terrain is barren, and the views are extraordinary, making this day both challenging and rewarding.

Overnight: Barranco Camp

Day 4 -Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5km)

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5km)

The day starts with the famous challenge of the Great Barranco Wall, a steep, rocky climb that offers breathtaking views. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with vistas of Heim Glacier and the surrounding landscapes. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley, providing ample opportunity for acclimatization. This relatively short day is designed to help your body adjust further to the high altitude while enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Overnight: Karanga Camp

Day 5 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Kosovo Camp (5km)

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Kosovo Camp (5km)

Today, you’ll trek through a stark, arid landscape towards Barafu Camp. The trail is surrounded by expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s twin peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo. After reaching Barafu, continue a short distance to Kosovo Camp, located at 4,800 meters. Staying at Kosovo Camp provides the advantage of a quieter and more restful night before your summit attempt. You’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest, followed by a light dinner in preparation for the final ascent.

Overnight: Kosovo Camp

Day 6 - Kosovo Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Mweka Camp (17km)

Kosovo Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Mweka Camp (17km)

Around midnight, begin the grueling ascent to Uhuru Peak. The climb takes you between the Ratzel and Rebmann glaciers, following a series of challenging switchbacks. After approximately six hours, you’ll reach Stella Point on the crater rim, where you can catch a spectacular sunrise. From here, it’s a one-hour walk to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Kibo Camp for a short break, before continuing to Mweka Camp for your last night on the mountain.

Overnight: Mweka Camp

Day 7 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10km)

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10km)

After a restful night at Mweka Camp, descend through Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest, making your way to Mweka Gate. The trail can be slippery, so take caution during the descent. Once at the gate, you’ll be greeted by Kingse Safaris Africa’s vehicles, ready to take you back to Moshi. Take the opportunity to purchase a commemorative t-shirt or soda at the gate, celebrating your monumental achievement of summiting Africa’s highest peak.

Includes & Excludes

Include & Exclude

Park fees
All activities
All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
A professional driver/guide
All transportation
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Camping Equipment
Porterage

International flights (from/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Rescue Fee
Climbing Gear
Sleeping Bag

7 Days Machame Route

Mid Range

Luxury

Top Luxury

Plan Your Safari

Discover Africa's Best Mountain Packages

Mount Kilimanjaro offers several scenic routes to its summit, each varying in difficulty and duration. Popular paths include Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit. These routes showcase diverse landscapes—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

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7 Days Machame Route FAQs

How do I choose a Kilimanjaro tour operator?

Choosing the right Kilimanjaro Tour Operator is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when hiking Africa’s highest peak.

It is often advised to look for a registered and experienced operator that has good reviews, professional mountain guides, and follows proper safety practices.

A good company should also take care of its crew, provide fair wages, reasonable porter loads, and appropriate meals. Don’t just go with the cheapest option.

A reliable operator provides superior support, high-quality equipment, and a safer experience on the mountain.

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?

The cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro usually ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. This depends on the route, the number of days, whether the climb is group or private, and the services included.

Remember, cheaper companies may cut corners on staff welfare or safety equipment.

A reasonable price usually includes park fees, experienced guides, meals, tents, porters, and airport transfers.

Therefore, always ask for a detailed cost breakdown before booking.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons. January to mid-March and June to October offer the most stable weather and clearer views.

These months are ideal for achieving summit success and enjoying comfort. The long rains (late March to May) and short rains (November) make the trails slippery and reduce visibility.

While climbing during the rainy seasons is possible, it’s not ideal unless you’re prepared for wet, muddy, and more difficult conditions.

Which is the best route for climbing Kilimanjaro?

The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are known for beautiful scenery and good acclimatization.

Machame is the most popular, offering a dramatic and varied landscape.

Rongai is less crowded and drier, great for those seeking quiet trails.

Marangu is the only route with hut accommodations, but it offers less time for acclimatization.

Hence, your choice should depend on your fitness, time, and comfort level with altitude.

How many days should I spend on the mountain?

Climbing Kilimanjaro should not be rushed. The longer you spend on the mountain, the better your chances of acclimatizing properly and reaching the summit safely.

Most climbers choose a seven or 8-day route. These extra days allow your body to adjust gradually to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes shorter than 6 days often lead to lower summit success and more health issues.

What kind of weather should I expect?

The weather on Kilimanjaro changes dramatically with altitude. You’ll experience five different climate zones, from tropical rainforest at the base to arctic conditions at the summit.

Days are warmer on the lower slopes (around 20–27°C / 68–80°F), while nights are much colder at higher altitudes.

Near the summit, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), especially before sunrise. Be ready for sun, wind, rain, and freezing temperatures—all in one climb.

What gear do I need to bring?

The essential items that are a must-have when climbing Kilimanjaro include: waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers, an insulated jacket, waterproof pants and jacket, gloves, a hat, a warm sleeping bag, a headlamp, and a daypack.

The support team carries your large duffel bag (up to 15 kg), while you have only a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a jacket. We always provide a complete Kilimanjaro Packing List.

How should I train and prepare for the climb?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you must be physically prepared by doing some intensive training for Kilimanjaro. The best way to train is by doing long-distance hikes with elevation gain while carrying a backpack.

Build your endurance 2–3 months before the trip with regular walking, stair climbing, strength training, and cardio.

Aim for 4–6-hour hikes at a steady pace. Most of all, get used to walking uphill and downhill for several days in a row.

Is it safe to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical mountain, but the high altitude can be risky. Good operators take safety seriously. Trained guides monitor your health every day using pulse oximeters and ask questions to check for signs of altitude sickness. Oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and emergency evacuation plans are standard. If you climb with an experienced team and follow their advice, the climb is safe and well-managed.

Why are some Kilimanjaro climbs much cheaper than others?

If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Budget operators often cut costs by paying porters unfair wages, overloading staff, using worn-out gear, or skipping proper meals and safety checks. These practices are not just unethical; they also affect your overall experience. Reputable companies charge more because they take care of their team, use better equipment, and focus on your safety and success.

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