8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb – Machame Route

The Machame Route is one of the most scenic and adventurous paths to the Roof of Africa. Known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its more challenging nature compared to the “Coca-Cola” Marangu Route, it is perfect for trekkers seeking a rewarding journey with varied landscapes, dramatic vistas, and excellent acclimatization opportunities. This 8-day itinerary maximizes your chance of summit success by incorporating an acclimatization day while traversing through rainforest, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glacial landscapes. The route begins on the southwestern slopes and descends via the Mweka route.

Tour Plan

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Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. In the evening, your climbing guide will provide a thorough briefing and gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared for your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Accommodation: SG Resort or similar

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Arusha – Machame Gate (1,800m) – Machame Camp (3,010m)

After breakfast, we depart Arusha and head toward the Machame Gate. Here, park registration and final preparations will take place before we begin the trek through the lush montane rainforest. The trail ascends steadily, winding through giant fig trees, ancient ferns, and vibrant birdlife. By late afternoon, we arrive at Machame Camp, nestled just above the forest line.

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Distance: ~11 km

Elevation Gain: 1,210m

Accommodation: Machame Camp (budget camping)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840m)

Today’s hike takes you above the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. The trail climbs a rocky ridge with open views of Mount Meru to the west. As you move toward Shira Plateau, the vegetation thins and the path reveals panoramic views. The Shira Camp sits on a broad plateau and provides your first glimpse of the summit glaciers.

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Distance: ~5 km

Elevation Gain: 830m

Accommodation: Shira Camp (budget camping)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)

This is a critical acclimatization day. We ascend gradually to Lava Tower, also known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” The high altitude is likely to be felt here. After lunch near the tower, we descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley. The descent offers dramatic views and helps the body adjust to the altitude following the “climb high, sleep low” principle.

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Distance: ~10 km

Elevation Gain/Loss: +790m / -670m

Accommodation: Barranco Camp (budget camping)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)

The day begins with an exhilarating climb up the iconic Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that requires a bit of scrambling. At the top, enjoy sweeping views of the Karanga Valley below. The trail then undulates through alpine desert terrain with towering glaciers in the distance. We arrive at Karanga Camp in the early afternoon for a restful night and acclimatization.

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Distance: ~5 km

Elevation Gain: ~75m

Accommodation: Karanga Camp (budget camping)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)

A short yet steep climb leads us to the final base camp before summit night. As we approach Barafu (“ice” in Swahili), the landscape becomes more rugged and windswept. We rest early in preparation for the midnight summit push. Your guide will provide a final briefing and ensure all gear is ready for the big day.

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Distance: ~4 km

Elevation Gain: 605m

Accommodation: Barafu Camp (budget camping)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Summit Day – Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

This is the most challenging and rewarding day. At midnight, we begin the slow, steady climb under the stars. You’ll pass Stella Point (5,739m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your success at the summit before descending back to Barafu for breakfast, then continue the descent to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Hiking Time: 12–14 hours total

Distance: ~17 km

Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,255m / -2,795m

Accommodation: Mweka Camp (budget camping)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha

After breakfast, enjoy a final scenic descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Our vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Arusha. Celebrate with a hot shower, a warm meal, and well-earned rest.

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Distance: ~10 km

Accommodation: Optional at additional cost

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Included
  • Park fees (For non-residents)
  • All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All Taxes/VAT
  • Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
  • International flights (From/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
$2350
Duration
7 days
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(If Childrens are included please mention ages on Message section below)
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