7 Days Machame Route

Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure

The Machame Route, is renowned for its scenic beauty. It offers trekkers breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a thrilling adventure. However, it is also considered one of the more challenging routes due to its steep trails and shorter itinerary. This makes it better suited for adventurous trekkers or those with some high-altitude hiking or backpacking experience.

The route approaches Kilimanjaro from the south, starting with a short drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. The trail leads hikers through lush rainforests to the Shira Plateau, where many of Kilimanjaro’s routes converge. From there, the path turns east, traversing beneath the Southern Ice Field along the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu Camp. The descent is made via the Mweka Route.

No. of PAX Cost per Person

Cost Starting From $1350(International) $ 650 East African

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Elevation:5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
Hiking Time:5-7 hours
Distance:11 km | 7 miles

After a 50-minute drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, your trek begins with a steady climb through dense rainforest. The trail winds up a ridge, offering glimpses of wildlife and vibrant flora, before reaching Machame Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation:9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
Hiking Time:4-6 hours
Distance:5 km | 3 miles
Habitat:Heath and Moorland

Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the heath and moorland zone. The trail ascends a rocky ridge before opening onto the Shira Plateau, where you’ll cross a river gorge to reach Shira 2 Camp.

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

- Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower:
  - Elevation:12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
  - Hiking Time:4-5 hours
  - Distance:7 km | 4 miles
  - Habitat:Alpine Desert
- Lava Tower to Barranco Camp:
  - Elevation:15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
  - Hiking Time:2-3 hours
  - Distance:3 km | 2 miles
  - Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day begins with a climb to the iconic Lava Tower, a 300 ft volcanic rock formation. After lunch, descend through the surreal Senecio Forest to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is excellent for acclimatization

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

- Elevation:13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
- Hiking Time:4-5 hours
- Distance:5 km | 3 miles
- Habitat:Alpine Desert.

The day starts with a thrilling ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb. After conquering the wall, you’ll traverse hills and valleys before descending into Karanga Valley. A final steep climb brings you to Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize further.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation:13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Hiking Time:4-5 hours
Distance:4 km | 2 miles
Habitat:Alpine Desert

Today’s trek takes you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Along the way, you’ll complete the Southern Circuit, enjoying panoramic views of the summit from multiple angles. Rest early and prepare for the challenging summit night ahead.

Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

- Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak:
  - Elevation:15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
  - Hiking Time:6-8 hours
  - Distance:5 km | 3 miles
  - Habitat:Arctic
- Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp:
  - Elevation:19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
  - Hiking Time:4-6 hours
  - Distance:12 km | 7 miles
  - Habitat:Rainforest

Summit day begins around midnight with a steep, challenging ascent under the stars. After hours of hiking, you’ll reach Stella Point (18,900 ft), where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From there, it’s a final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

- Elevation:10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
- Hiking Time:3-4 hours
- Distance:10 km | 6 miles
- Habitat:Rainforest

On your final day, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower, celebration, and reflection on your incredible journey.