Kilimanjaro Wonders
7-Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Itinerary: Machame Route
Tour Overview
The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular trails. Offering stunning views and a variety of landscapes, this 7-day trek is perfect for adventurers looking for a slightly challenging yet rewarding experience. With a high success rate due to excellent acclimatization opportunities, this route ensures a memorable journey to the summit of Africa’s highest peak.
Itinerary
From $ 2485
- Day 1:
- Day 2:
- Day 3:
- Day 4:
- Day 5:
- Day 6:
- Day 7:
- Day 8:
Arrival in Moshi
- Activity: Arrival, orientation, and trek briefing.
- Details: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Transfer to Moshi for an overnight stay at a comfortable lodge. Meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing and gear check.
- Meals: Dinner.
Moshi – Machame Gate (1,800m) – Machame Camp (2,835m)
- Trek Distance: 11km (5-7 hours).
- Details: Transfer to Machame Gate for registration. Begin trekking through a lush rainforest with occasional wildlife sightings. Arrive at Machame Camp for your first night under the stars.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Machame Camp (2,835m) – Shira Camp (3,750m)
- Trek Distance: 5km (4-6 hours).
- Details: Ascend through moorland to Shira Plateau, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mount Meru and the Shira Ridge. Overnight at Shira Camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Shira Camp (3,750m) – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,976m)
- Trek Distance: 10km (6-8 hours).
- Details: Climb to Lava Tower for acclimatization and descend to Barranco Camp. This day is critical for acclimatization, with dramatic views of the Western Breach.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Barranco Camp (3,976m) – Karanga Camp (3,995m)
- Trek Distance: 5km (4-5 hours).
- Details: Navigate the challenging Barranco Wall and continue through alpine desert terrain to Karanga Camp. Enjoy breathtaking views and rest for the next day.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Karanga Camp (3,995m) – Barafu Camp (4,673m)
- Trek Distance: 4km (3-4 hours).
- Details: A short yet steep trek through the desolate alpine desert to Barafu Camp. Prepare for your midnight summit attempt.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Barafu Camp (4,673m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,067m)
- Trek Distance: 17km (10-14 hours).
- Details: Start the summit push at midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise for a breathtaking view. Descend to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing to Mweka Camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Mweka Camp (3,067m) – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Moshi
- Trek Distance: 10km (3-4 hours).
- Details: Complete the descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Included
- Accommodation: 2 nights at your selected lodge (as per the option chosen: Budget, Mid-Range, or Luxury)
- Transportation: Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide/driver
- Game Drives: Full-day game drives in Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater
- Meals:
- Breakfast at the lodge
- Picnic lunches during the safari
- Dinner at the lodge
- Bottled water throughout the trip
- Park Fees: All entry fees for Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater
- Cultural Visit: Maasai village experience
- Transfers: From Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel, and from your lodge to Arusha or the airport
Not Included
- International Flights to/from Tanzania
- Tips for the Guide/Driver (recommended USD 10-15 per person per day)
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks, personal items)
- Alcoholic Beverages (unless specified)
- Visa Fees (if applicable)
- Optional Activities (listed below)
Booking & Contact Information
For more information or to book your Safari, Trekking, Zanzibar Holiday or Combo Package, please contact in the form below or click at the bottom right green popup dialogue and our expert will respond to guide you in your adventure planning.