Tour Overview
Discover why the Machame Route is the most popular way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route", is the most popular trail on Mount Kilimanjaro because of its spectacular scenery and excellent acclimatization profile. The route approaches the mountain from the southwest and passes through lush rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and finally the arctic summit zone.
Compared to the Marangu Route, Machame is more challenging due to its steeper trails and longer hiking days. However, it offers a much higher summit success rate thanks to the "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy.
The route crosses the famous Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, Karanga Valley, and Barafu Camp before making the midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
This package includes airport transfers, two hotel nights in Moshi, all Kilimanjaro National Park fees, professional mountain guides, porters, emergency oxygen, camping equipment, delicious mountain meals, and full support from the experienced KiliLocal Adventures team.
Quick Facts
Essential information about your 7 Days Machame Route adventure.
Duration
7 Days Trek
Highest Point
Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation
Mountain Camping
Best Season
Jan–Mar & Jun–Oct
Success Rate
Very High
Tour Itinerary
Follow your unforgettable 7 Days Machame Route journey to the Roof of Africa.
Day 0: Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Relax after your journey, meet your mountain guide for a detailed climbing briefing, equipment inspection, and prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Accommodation: Kilimanjaro White House Hotel / Similar
Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp
- Altitude: 1,640m – 2,835m
- Distance: 11 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
- Accommodation: Machame Camp
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate for registration before beginning your trek through lush tropical rainforest. The trail winds beneath towering trees filled with birds, monkeys and colorful vegetation before reaching Machame Camp where dinner and overnight await.
Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira 2 Camp
- Altitude: 2,835m – 3,850m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours
- Habitat: Heath & Moorland
- Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Leave the rainforest behind as you climb onto the spectacular Shira Plateau. Enjoy panoramic views across the mountain while passing giant heathers, volcanic rock formations and open moorland before arriving at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
- Altitude: 3,850m – 4,630m – 3,960m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 6–8 Hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Today's trek follows the famous "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy. Reach the impressive Lava Tower before descending through the beautiful Senecio Forest to Barranco Camp. This day greatly improves your body's adaptation to high altitude.
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
- Altitude: 3,960m – 4,640m
- Distance: 9.5 km
- Hiking Time: 7–8 Hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall before crossing ridges and valleys toward Karanga Camp. Continue to Barafu Camp where you will rest, enjoy an early dinner and prepare for your midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak.
Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
- Altitude: 4,640m – 5,895m – 3,100m
- Distance: 17 km
- Hiking Time: 11–14 Hours
- Habitat: Arctic → Rain Forest
- Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Around midnight, begin your summit push toward Uhuru Peak. Hiking under the stars, you will pass Stella Point before reaching the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Witness an unforgettable sunrise above the clouds before taking photographs at the famous Uhuru Peak sign.
After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch before continuing down through the alpine desert and heath zones to Mweka Camp for dinner and your final overnight on the mountain.
Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
- Altitude: 3,100m – 1,640m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
- Accommodation: Kilimanjaro White House Hotel / Similar
After breakfast, enjoy your final descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, receive your official Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate before meeting your driver for the transfer back to Moshi. Relax, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate your incredible achievement.
Day 7: Leisure Day in Moshi
Enjoy a relaxing day after your successful climb. You may choose to explore Moshi town, visit the Mbuyuni Local Market, enjoy local coffee, or simply rest at your hotel. Optional cultural tours and coffee farm visits can also be arranged.
Accommodation: Kilimanjaro White House Hotel / Similar
Day 8: Departure – Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, our driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We hope you leave Tanzania with unforgettable memories and look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure with KiliLocal Adventures.
Total Price Computation
7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route with 2 Hotel Nights in Moshi
| Package | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 7 Days Machame Route Climb | USD 2,300 |
Price Includes
- Airport transfers (Arrival & Departure)
- 2 Hotel nights in Moshi (Before & After Trek)
- 7 Days Machame Route Trek (Full Board)
- Kilimanjaro National Park Fees
- Rescue Fees
- All Government Taxes and Crew Wages
- Emergency Oxygen Tank
- Hot Water Bottle for Warm Sleeping
- Private Toilet
Price Excludes
- International Flights
- Tanzania Visa Fees
- Travel & Medical Insurance
- Personal Expenses (Laundry, Drinks and Souvenirs)
Payment Policy
To secure your booking, a 20% deposit is required. The remaining balance is payable upon your arrival in Tanzania before the climb begins.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers may cancel their booking free of charge up to two weeks before the scheduled tour departure date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Machame Route?
The Machame Route is considered moderately difficult due to its steep sections and longer trekking days. However, its excellent acclimatization profile makes it one of the most successful routes.
What is the success rate?
The 7 Days Machame Route has one of the highest summit success rates, often exceeding 90% when climbers follow the itinerary.
Do I need previous climbing experience?
No. Anyone with good physical fitness and proper preparation can successfully climb Kilimanjaro using the Machame Route.
Is drinking water provided?
Yes. Safe, purified drinking water is provided every day during the climb.
