Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our 7 days Kilimanjaro climb via the renowned Machame Route, one of the most scenic and popular paths to the summit of Africa's highest peak. This carefully planned itinerary allows you to ascend Kilimanjaro at a steady pace, giving you ample time to acclimatize and enjoy the diverse landscapes along the way.
The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, dense rainforests, and alpine meadows. Starting from the Machame Gate, you will trek through five distinct climate zones, each with its own unique charm, from the lush rainforests to the rugged, barren summit.
Over the course of 7 days, your expert guides and porters will lead you through the challenging yet rewarding terrain, ensuring your safety and comfort every step of the way. Reach the summit, Uhuru Peak, with a sense of accomplishment, as you take in the breathtaking views and celebrate your success.
This 7 days Kilimanjaro climb on the Machame Route is perfect for those seeking a challenging and immersive adventure. Book your climb today and take the first step towards reaching the roof of Africa!
The drive from Moshi to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes about 50 minutes. The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. We now leave the park gate and walk through the rainforest on a winding trail up a ridge. Lower down, the trail can be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. We continue a short distance until we reach the Machame Camp.
•Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
•Distance: 11 km
•Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
•Habitat: Rain Forest
•Route: Kilimanjaro Machame Route - 7 Days
Accommodation: Bed, Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the little valley walking along a steep rocky ridge, covered with heather until the ridge ends. The route now turns west onto a river gorge. Time for rest, dinner, and overnight at the Shira campsite.
•Elevation (ft): 9,400ft to 12,500ft
•Distance: 5 km
•Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
•Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Bed, Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth." Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
•Elevation (ft): 12,500ft to 13,000ft
•Distance: 10 km
•Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
•Habitat: Semi Desert
Accommodation: Bed, Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day meant for acclimatization.
•Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 13,100ft
•Distance: 5 km
•Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
•Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Bed, Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
•Elevation (ft): 13,100ft to 15,300ft
•Distance: 4 km
•Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
•Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Bed, Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.
At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
•Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)
•Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
•Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
•Habitat: Arctic
Accommodation: Bed, Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
From the gate, you continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to the hotel in Moshi.
•Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft
•Distance: 10 km
•Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
•Habitat: Rain Forest
Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast
We understand that planning your perfect safari is a big decision, and we’re here to make it easy. Feel free to request a personalized, no-obligation quote tailored to your preferences. Rest assured, requesting a quote does not commit you to booking the tour—it's simply a way for us to help you explore your options and ensure your safari experience is everything you dream it to be.
We'll send you a quote for free, booking the tour is absolutely optional.
The best times to climb Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons: from January to mid-March and from June to October. These months offer more stable weather, clear skies, and better trail conditions. While you can climb year-round, the rainy seasons (April-May and November) can make the trail slippery and increase the challenge.
You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but good physical conditioning is important. You’ll be walking several hours per day, sometimes at high altitude, so stamina and mental determination are key. Training with long hikes, cardio workouts, and strength training a few months in advance will greatly improve your chances of success and enjoyment.
There are several routes, each with its own charm. The Machame Route is scenic and popular, Lemosho offers beauty and great acclimatization, Marangu has hut accommodation and is considered "easier," while Rongai is quieter and drier. Your choice depends on your fitness level, budget, and how many days you can spend on the mountain.
Prices vary depending on the number of days, route, and quality of service. Budget climbs may start around $1,500–$2,000, while mid-range and premium packages can range from $2,500–$4,000 or more. The price covers park fees, guides, porters, accommodation, meals, safety gear, and transport. Avoid deals that seem "too cheap"—they may cut corners on safety or porter welfare.
Yes, altitude sickness is real and can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness. That’s why acclimatization is critical. Choosing a longer route (7–8 days) increases your chances of success. Our guides are trained in altitude awareness and carry equipment like oximeters and oxygen tanks to monitor and assist climbers. Always listen to your body and go "pole pole" (slowly, slowly).
You’ll need proper hiking gear including warm layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, a good sleeping bag, a daypack, headlamp, and personal items. We provide a full packing list when you book, and rental gear is available for most items if needed. Staying warm, dry, and comfortable is key to a successful summit attempt.
Yes! Our Kilimanjaro team includes certified, experienced guides trained in mountain safety, first aid, and wilderness rescue. We’re proud members of KPAP (Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project), ensuring that our porters receive fair wages, proper meals, safe working conditions, and respectful treatment.
We provide nutritious, hot meals prepared by our mountain chefs. Expect a mix of local and international dishes—soups, rice, pasta, vegetables, fruits, eggs, and meat (when possible). Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. We also provide purified water daily.
Absolutely. Travel insurance is required and must cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters. It should also include emergency evacuation, medical coverage, and trip cancellation. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind while you take on the adventure of a lifetime.
Your health and safety come first. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness or fatigue, your guide will make the best decision—sometimes this means descending early. A support team will accompany you to a lower altitude or back to base. Remember, reaching the summit is amazing, but the journey and effort matter just as much.
To book your adventure, simply send us an email detailing your desired experience—whether it's climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, going on a Tanzania safari, or enjoying the Zanzibar beach.
We'll promptly respond with all the information you need to finalize your plans. Plus, we offer the convenience of online payment to make the process even smoother.
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