Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 7 Days Machame Route
From $. 2,100 USD* / 24/7 service / 9 days
*Price p.p. incl. transfers, accommodation, food, drinks, guides, tents and park fees. Excl. International flight (based on six persons)
Mount Kilimanjaro, often referred to as Kilimanjaro, is the highest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. It is a dormant stratovolcano located in Tanzania and is a major attraction for hikers and adventure enthusiasts worldwide. Among the various routes available for ascending Kilimanjaro, the Machame Route is one of the most popular. This guide provides an in-depth exploration of the 7-day Machame Route, including its itinerary, preparation advice, tips for success, and the unique experiences offered throughout the trek.
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and scenic views of the mountain. The trek typically takes 6 to 7 days, giving climbers ample time to acclimatize and enjoy the beauty of Kilimanjaro.
Key Features of the Machame Route:
Scenery: The route offers incredible panoramic views of the mountain, forests, and unique flora and fauna.
Acclimatization: Due to its higher altitude gain and varied topography, the Machame Route facilitates good acclimatization.
Camping Experience: Climbers camp under the stars each night, enhancing the adventure experience.
Accessibility: The route can be accessed from Machame Gate, making it a convenient starting point.
Day 1: Arrival At Kilimanjaro International Airport
After clearing customs and immigration, you will be greeted by your safari guide. Transfer to your accommodation in Arusha to check in and freshen up. We have suggested bellow a comfortable accommodations based on your budget from 3 stars, 4stars or 5stars.
If you arrive in morning time, you will have rest at your hotel and after lunch, take a compliment short tour of Arusha town. Visit the local market for an authentic experience, and if time permits, visit the Arusha Declaration Museum to learn about Tanzania’s history. Experience the local culture by interacting with the friendly locals.
Evening enjoy a welcome dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant to try local dishes like NyamaChoma(grilled meat) or/and Ugali(cornmeal).
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
- Time: 5-7 hours
- Altitude: Start at 1,600 m (5,249 ft), ascend to 2,980 m (9,777 ft)
The trek begins at Machame Gate, where climbers register and go through a briefing. The trail initially passes through lush rainforests filled with unique vegetation and wildlife. Hikers can expect to see various bird species, monkeys, and vibrant plants. The ascent to Machame Camp offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: Acclimatization, ascend to 3,850 m (12,631 ft)
The third day involves a shorter hike as acclimatization is crucial. The path leads through moorland, with spectacular views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak. Upon arrival at Shira Camp, trekkers can relax and enjoy the stunning sunset.
Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower, then to Barranco Camp
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Time: 6-8 hours
- Altitude: Ascend to Lava Tower at 4,600 m (15,091 ft) and descend to 3,960 m (12,992 ft)
On this day, trekkers tackle the Lava Tower, an impressive rock formation that serves as a great acclimatization point. After reaching the tower, the descent to Barranco Camp takes hikers through the Barranco Wall, a challenging yet rewarding segment offering expansive views of the landscape.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: Ascend to 4,030 m (13,220 ft)
The fourth day involves climbing the Barranco Wall, where trekkers navigate steep sections using fixed ropes. This part of the trek provides an exhilarating experience and offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys. After a careful descent, climbers make their way to Karanga Camp, the last water source before the summit.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Distance: 7 km (4 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: Ascend to 4,640 m (15,223 ft)
This day is relatively short, providing an opportunity for climbers to rest. As you ascend to Barafu Camp, the climate changes and the scenery become more barren. Barafu serves as the base camp for the summit attempt, and it’s critical to rest well before the long and challenging day ahead.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp
- Distance: 14 km (8 miles)
- Time: 12-14 hours
- Altitude: Summit at 5,895 m (19,341 ft) and descend to 3,100 m (10,171 ft)
Summit day begins with a midnight wake-up call. Climbers start their trek in the dark to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. This is the ultimate reward of the climb, with spectacular views from the roof of Africa. The descent back to Mweka Camp can be exhausting, but the sense of achievement fuels each step.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Altitude: Descend to 1,640 m (5,379 ft)
The final day involves a descent through the rainforest back to Mweka Gate, where climbers sign out. Here, it’s time to celebrate the successful summit attempt and receive certificates. Many trekkers choose to spend a night in Moshi or Arusha to unwind after their journey.
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 9: Departure:
Late morning breakfast, them you will have city tour and have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in local craft shops.
Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or proceed with safari tour or flight to Zanzibar.
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Kilimanjaro Mountain Packing List
Communal equipment (tents, food, utensils, etc.) is provided. You are responsible for bringing the required, recommended and optional personal gear and equipment listed below. The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack. Be selective in what you take with you. Our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs. (15 kgs) of your personal belongings.
Clothing:
- 4-5 Pairs of underwear
- Top and bottom base layer – Icebreaker (Women) or SmartWool (Men)
- 3-4 Short sleeve and 1-2 long sleeve trekking shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of hiking trousers
- 1 Fleece jacket – Helly Hansen (Men) or The North Face (Women)
- 1 Insulated winter jacket – Arc’Teryx Atom (Men) or North Face Nuptse (Women)
- 1 Insulated trekking trousers
- 1 Hardshell jacket – North Face Resolve Resolve (Men) and North Face Venture 2 (Women)
- Lightweight raingear
Headgear:
- Sun hat, ideally with a neck cover
- Warm beanie or fleece headband
- Bandana or neck gaiter
- Headlamp – PETZL Tikka
- Sunglasses
Hands and Walking:
- Lightweight inner gloves – New Balance Lightweight Gloves
- Warm outer gloves/mitts – Gore-Tex Gloves (Men) or Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (Women)
- Adjustable trekking poles – Black Diamond Alpine
Footwear:
- Mid-weight hiking boots – Salomon Quest (Women) or KEEN Targhee (Men)
- Camp trainers (Men) / Trekking sandals (Women)
- 4-5 Pairs of trekking socks – SmartWool or Bridgedale
- 1 Pair of warm/thick trekking socks
- Bags and Daypack (click for details)
- 80-90L Waterproof duffle bag – North Face Base Camp
- 20-30L Daypack – Osprey Talon 22
- Daypack raincover
- Travel bag organisers (optional)
Sleeping Accessories:
- 4-Season sleeping bag – Marmot Trestles or Hyke & Byke Unisex
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
General Accessories:
- Large volume water bottle or hydration bladder – Platypus Hydration Bladder for backpack
- Water Purification Tablets
- Baby wipes
- Sweat-resistant suncream
- Blister plasters
- Insect repellant
- General medications (Paracetamol, Imodium)
- Pee bottle (optional)
Technology:
- Camera
- GoPro (optional)
- Solar Backpack Charger (optional)
- Spare batteries and camera memory card
- Kindle with backlight (optional)
Other Bits and Bobs
- Energy bars
- Energy drink supplement
- Ziplock bags for important possessions (passport, money, phone, etc.)
- Trekking towel
- Toiletries, including one roll of toilet paper
- Passport, visa, insurance, yellow fever card (if applicable)
- Small lock for your duffle bag.
Important Information’s to know:
- Children under 10 years are not allowed to Summit Kilimanjaro.
- The duration of transfers/walking are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions and customers fitness.
- A Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory when enters Tanzania.
- Visas are available on arrival. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Preparation for the Climb
Physical Preparation
Getting in shape for the Kilimanjaro climb is crucial. Engage in a well-rounded fitness program, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking practice. Aim for at least three to six months of preparation:
- Cardio Training: Engage in activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. Gradually increase your duration and intensity.
- Strength Training: Focus on building strength in your legs, back, and core to ease the physical demands of the trek. Squats, lunges, and leg presses are beneficial.
- Hiking Practice: Go on regular hikes, both on flat and inclined terrains, to prepare your body for the conditions you will encounter on Kilimanjaro.
Mental Preparation
Climbing Kilimanjaro can be as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Preparing mentally involves:
- Researching the Climb: Understand the route, what to expect in terms of altitude sickness, and the physical demands.
- Setting Realistic Goals: Know your limits and be prepared for the possibility of needing to descend if necessary.
- Practicing Mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mental resilience, such as meditation or yoga, to prepare for the mental aspect of high-altitude trekking.
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We are honored to have been awarded multiple Travelers’ Choice Awards for being among the best tour operators in Tanzania. These accolades demonstrate our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences for our guests and we are proud to be acknowledged as a leading tour company in the region. We look forward to taking you on one of our award-winning adventures.
