.png){kind=small}
7 Days Machame Route
6 Days / 5 Nights On The Mountain, 2 Nights In Arusha Hotel | Private Tour
While the Machame Route, often affectionately known as the 'Whiskey' Route, is considered more challenging than the Marangu Route, it has become the most popular choice for climbing Kilimanjaro. With its longer and steeper hiking stages compared to Marangu, it’s a preferred option for those who enjoy a more strenuous adventure. If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a rewarding challenge, the Machame Route offers an unforgettable journey to the summit.
Highlights
The breathtaking views from the summit, standing at the "Roof of Africa," are indescribable. Reaching Uhuru Peak is the crowning achievement of a Machame Route trek, leaving climbers with unforgettable memories.
Best Time to Visit
-
January to March: Recommended for dry weather and sunny skies.
-
June to October: Ideal for clear skies and dry trails.
-
November to December: The weather can be slightly wetter, but trekking is still recommended.
Physical Level
This trek is categorized as challenging. Climbers need to prepare physically with two to three months of hiking training to handle high-altitude conditions. Special gear and clothing are essential for the varied weather conditions.
Accommodation
Accommodation includes two nights at a hotel in Arusha and five nights in basic camping on the mountain. Planet Lodge is provided for hotel accommodation, and tents will be used on the mountain for a more authentic trekking experience.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
​
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. You will spend the night at Planet Lodge, where you can rest and prepare for the trek.
​
Day 2: Arusha to Machame Gate – Machame Camp
Today, after breakfast, you will drive from Arusha to the Machame Gate for registration. The trek begins in the lush rainforest, with towering trees and wildlife along the way. The climb to Machame Camp, located at an altitude of 2,972 meters, takes about five to six hours. The day ends with a well-deserved dinner at camp.
​
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Caves
After breakfast, you will leave Machame Camp and ascend through the heath and moorland zone. The day’s trek takes about four to six hours as you make your way to Shira 2 Camp, which sits at 3,804 meters. The landscape becomes more barren, with sweeping views of the Shira Plateau, a volcanic caldera.
​
Day 4: Shira Caves to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Today is a challenging but rewarding day. You will hike from Shira Caves up to the Lava Tower, reaching an altitude of 4,630 meters. This part of the trek is crucial for acclimatization. After a short rest at Lava Tower, you will descend to Barranco Camp, located at 3,950 meters. This day involves six to seven hours of trekking through alpine desert and rugged terrain.
​
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp via Karanga Camp
The day begins with a climb up the iconic Barranco Wall, which is steep but manageable. You will then pass through Karanga Camp, located at 4,033 meters, before continuing the ascent to Barafu Camp at 4,556 meters. The trek takes about seven to eight hours, and you’ll arrive at Barafu Camp in the late afternoon to rest before the summit attempt.
​
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
This is the most challenging and exciting day of the trek. You will begin your ascent around midnight, aiming to reach the summit by sunrise. After reaching Stella Point, you will continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. After taking in the stunning views, you will descend to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters. The day involves a total of 10 to 13 hours of trekking, with time spent both ascending and descending.
​
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Arusha
After breakfast, you will complete the final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Arusha for a night at Planet Lodge, where you can rest and reflect on your incredible journey.
Day 8: Departure
Your adventure concludes with a transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.
What’s Included
The itinerary includes helicopter rescue service, provided you have high-altitude trekking insurance. All transfers from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha and back are covered, as well as transportation to and from the mountain gate. You will stay two nights in Arusha at Planet Lodge and five nights in tents on the mountain, with full-board meals provided throughout the trek. Your team includes experienced guides, porters, and a mountain chef, and all necessary camping equipment such as tents, sleeping mattresses, and dining tents will be supplied. In addition, your park entrance and camping fees are covered. Upon successful completion of the trek, you will receive a certificate of achievement, whether you reach Uhuru Peak, Gilman’s Point, or Stella Point.
What’s Not Included
International flights, personal expenses, and tips for guides and porters are not covered. Climbers are also required to have high-altitude medical insurance, which is necessary for any helicopter rescue services that may be required in emergencies.
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating and rewarding experience as you take on the Machame Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro!
Contact Us
We are always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
+255 748 308 038