7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey” Route, is the most popular route on Kilimanjaro. Its main draw is its scenic beauty. However, the trail is considered difficult, steep, and challenging, particularly due to its shorter itinerary. Therefore, this route is better suited for more adventurous individuals or those with high-altitude hiking or backpacking experience.
The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a short drive from your hotel to Machame Gate. The path leads hikers through the rainforest to the Shira Plateau, where many of Kilimanjaro’s routes converge. Descent is made via the Mweka Route.

Arrival Day

Upon arrival, meet your mountain guide for brief introductions, information, discussions, and preparations for your climb.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,830 m/6,000 ft) - Machame Camp (3,000 m/10,000 ft)

After an early breakfast, depart from your lodge and drive to the Kilimanjaro entry gate. Following registration, begin your journey to Machame Camp, crossing the famous and mysterious tropical rainforest at the foothills of Kilimanjaro.
Altitude gain: 1,170 m/3,840 ft

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,850 m/12,630 ft)

Today, cross a stream valley, moving through the moorland zone to the Shira Plateau, a unique and mesmerizing area of Kilimanjaro. The hike takes 5–6 hours. Dinner and overnight stay in tents at Shira Plateau Camp.
Altitude gain: 850 m/2,790 ft

Day 3: Shira Camp - via Lava Tower (4,550 m/15,000 ft) - Barranco Camp (3,950 m/13,000 ft)

Embark on a 5–6 hour hike, encountering Kilimanjaro’s unique vegetation, such as giant senecio, lobelia, and helichrysum species, along with stunning views of the Lava Tower and glaciers (weather permitting). Climb as high as 4,550 m, then descend to Barranco Camp at 3,950 m for acclimatization, enjoying your first glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s Kibo Peak.
Altitude gain: 100 m/330 ft (600 m/1,970 ft to Lava Tower)

Day 4: Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp (4,040 m/13,255 ft)

Ascend the Barranco Wall, then cross scree and ridges to reach the Karanga Valley. Arrive at camp by lunchtime, with time for an acclimatization walk. Enjoy views of the Western Breach and Southern Glacier at approximately 4,040 m.
Altitude gain: 90 m/295 ft

Day 5: Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp (4,650 m/15,260 ft)

Start early, climbing at an easy pace up a moraine ridge, enjoying views of the Southern Glacier and glacial valleys. Reach Barafu Camp at lunchtime, with ample time to relax and prepare for the summit day. Go to sleep around 5:30 PM, as the summit attempt begins at midnight.
Altitude gain: 610 m/2,000 ft

Day 6: Summit Day - Mweka Camp

12:00 AM Summit Attempt via Stella Point (5,752 m/18,871 ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m/19,340 ft)
At a slow pace, make your final ascent across scree. Along the way to Uhuru Peak, encounter Kilimanjaro’s famous glaciers and witness a stunning sunrise above the clouds! You are on the Roof of Africa.
After summiting, descend to Barafu Camp (4,650 m/15,260 ft) for a hot lunch, then continue at 2:00 PM to Mweka Camp (3,000 m/10,000 ft).
Altitude gain: 1,245 m/4,085 ft (descent: 2,895 m/9,500 ft)

Day 7: Mweka Gate/Hotel

Depart camp at 8:00 AM after breakfast, descending through Kilimanjaro’s rainforest to Mweka Gate. Climbers who reached the summit receive their summit certificate. After signing out of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, drive back to your booked hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

Rates

Group Size	1 Person	2-4 People	5-7 People	8-10+ People
US$ per Person	$2,750	2,240	$1,920	$1,810

Included

Excludes

All mountain accommodations on a full-board basis.
Highly experienced and skilled mountain guides
National Park entrance and camping fees.
Rescue fees and crew wages.
Guide, cook, and porter salaries.
Camping equipment (e.g., Mountain Hardware Tango 4 tents for clients).
Three meals daily, plus evening tea with popcorn or peanuts.
All government taxes and fees.
Water supply on the mountain

International flights (From/ To Home)
Trip protection/coverage insurance.
Personal items (e.g., toiletries, gear).
Beverages, laundry, and phone calls.
Acclimatization day at Arusha National Park (optional, recommended for time adjustment).
Accommodations in Moshi/Arusha town hotels.
Transportation to/from Kilimanjaro National Park (drop-off and pick-up).

Embark on an unforgettable journey to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro with Rove Adventures Africa! Led by our founder, Moses Kashumba, a certified expert with over 20 years of guiding experience, our 6-Day Marangu Route climb offers a perfect blend of adventure, safety, and cultural immersion. With extensive training from Mweka Wildlife College, NOLS, and Wilderness First Responder, Moses ensures every step is supported by deep knowledge of Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife. From the rainforest trails to the summit of Uhuru Peak, we provide top-tier services, comfortable accommodations, and personalized care to make your climb a lifetime memory. Ready to reach Africa’s highest peak? Contact us at +255 787 152 017 or info@roveadventuresafrica.com to book your Kilimanjaro adventure today!