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7 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Machame

Experience the Wild Heart of Africa

7 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Machame

The 7-day Machame Route is the most popular and recommended itinerary for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its scenic beauty and high success rate, this route allows for better acclimatization and a more enjoyable trekking experience.

A key advantage is the split of the Barranco to Barafu section into two days. This gives climbers a shorter day before the tough summit push, helping them rest and prepare for the early midnight start.

Top Kilimanjaro tour operators prefer this route due to its smart pacing, gradual ascent, and built-in rest days—making it ideal for maximizing acclimatization and minimizing altitude sickness risks.

Time climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Experience the ultimate Kilimanjaro climb with our expert-guided 7-day Machame Route — the perfect balance of acclimatization, scenery, and summit success.

Minimum age: 10+

Adventure awaits! Children aged 10 and up can join the trek with proper preparation, guidance, and parental supervision.

Expert Guides

Our knowledgeable guides will enrich your experience with insights into Tanzania's ecosystems and cultures.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Machame Gate (1,640m / 5,380ft) to Machame Camp (2,850m / 9,350ft)

  • Distance: ~11 km (~7 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
  • levation Gain: +1,210m (+3,970ft)
Airport Transfer Lodge Accommodation
Arusha

Begin your Kilimanjaro climb at Machame Gate, entering through the southern side of the mountain. Hike through lush rainforest, enjoying diverse flora and birdlife. Arrive at Machame Camp , nestled in a clearing.

Day 2

Machame Camp (2,850m / 9,350ft) to Shira Camp (3,750m / 12,300ft)

  • Distance: ~6 km (~4 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
  • levation Gain: +900m (+2,950ft)
Tarangire

Ascend out of the forest into open moorland. The terrain becomes steeper and more rugged as you approach Shira Camp , offering your first panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 3

Shira Camp (3,750m / 12,300ft) to Lava Tower (4,600m / 15,100ft) to Barranco Camp (3,900m / 12,800ft)

  • Distance: ~6 km (~4 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
  • levation Gain: +900m (+2,950ft)
Lake Manyara

A challenging day featuring the "climb high, sleep low" principle. You’ll trek to Lava Tower , a towering rock formation, then descend to Barranco Camp , resting below the famous Barranco Wall.

Day 4

Barranco Camp (3,900m / 12,800ft) to Karanga Camp (4,050m / 13,300ft)

  • Distance: ~5 km (~3 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • levation Gain: +150m (+500ft)
Ngorongoro

Begin by climbing the Barranco Wall , a thrilling but non-technical scramble. Then descend through alpine terrain before ascending gently to Karanga Camp , an important acclimatization stop.

Day 5

Karanga Camp (4,050m / 13,300ft) to Barafu Camp (4,600m / 15,100ft)

  • Distance: ~4 km (~2.5 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • levation Gain: +550m (+1800ft)
Serengeti

This short day allows for much-needed rest before summit night. Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp , located on the edge of the mountain’s crater ridge. Prepare for an early start to the summit.

Day 6

Barafu Camp (4,600m / 15,100ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,340ft) to Mweka Hut (3,100m / 10,170ft)

  • Distance: ~14 km (~9 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
  • levation Gain/Loss: +1,295m / -2,795m (+4,250ft / -9,170ft)
Arusha

After breakfast at your camp, transfer to the Seronera airstrip for your scenic flight back to Arusha (approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival in Arusha, you'll be transferred to a day room at a local hotel where you can freshen up and relax before your international flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping in Arusha or simply relax at the hotel. Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Tanzanian safari adventure.

Day 7

Mweka Hut (3,100m / 10,170ft) to Mweka Gate (1,630m / 5,350ft) then to Moshi/Arusha

  • Distance: ~10 km (~6 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • levation loss: -1,470m (-4,820ft)
Serengeti

Descend through the lush Mweka Rainforest , passing waterfalls and wildlife. Arrive at Mweka Gate , where you'll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest.

Includes

  • All transfers
  • Professional and experienced mountain guide, cook and porters
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Rescue fees
  • Clean purified water
  • Accommodation before climbing
  • All entry fees
  • All meals during your trekking
  • Large portion of fresh healthy nutritious food

Excludes

  • International flights
  • Visa fees ($50 -$100, varies by nationality)
  • Sleeping bags, bring your own sleeping bag but still you can rent it in Arusha at reasonable
  • Gratitude’s for Kilimanjaro climbing crews
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses ((e.g. laundry bills, telephone bills, beverages etc.))
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Optional activities

Ready for Your Tanzanian Adventure?

Experience the magic of Tanzania's wildlife, landscapes, and cultures on our unforgettable 7-day safari.

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