+255758500037
emneladventures@gmail.com
The 7-Day Machame Route is one of the most popular trekking routes to Kilimanjaro’s summit, favored for its stunning landscapes and effective acclimatization profile. The route spans 62 km (37 miles) from Machame Gate (1,800m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), and typically takes 6 days up, 1 day down. It features the famous Barranco Wall, the beautiful Shira Plateau, and the dramatic Lava Tower.
What to Expect
The Machame Route is a favorite among adventurers for its dramatic scenery and well-paced ascent. Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” it’s a bit more challenging than Marangu but offers better acclimatization and incredible views at every turn.
Trek through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zones.
Ideal for adventurous trekkers with good fitness levels.
Stunning photo opportunities across diverse terrain.
High summit success rate due to gradual elevation gain.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arush. Meet your guide for a gear check and full trek briefing. Rest and prepare for the climb ahead.
Elevation: 1,800m (5,905ft) → 2,835m (9,301ft)
Distance Covered: 11 km (6.8 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overview: Start your trek at Machame Gate with a hike through lush rainforest. This day is filled with sights of dense vegetation and possibly Colobus monkeys. Arrive at Machame Camp by evening.
Elevation: 2,835m (9,301ft) → 3,850m (12,631ft)
Distance Covered: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overview: The trail gets steeper as you ascend into the moorland zone. Enjoy panoramic views as you reach the scenic Shira Plateau, where you’ll set camp at Shira Camp.
Elevation: 3,850m (12,631ft) → 4,630m (15,190ft) → 3,976m (13,044ft)
Distance Covered: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overview: This acclimatization day takes you to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. The climb high, sleep low strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Elevation: 3,976m (13,044ft) → 3,995m (13,106ft)
Distance Covered: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overview: Ascend the iconic Barranco Wall, then trek across valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp. A shorter day to allow further acclimatization before the summit push.
Elevation: 3,995m (13,106ft) → 4,673m (15,331ft)
Distance Covered: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overview: A short but steep climb to Barafu Camp, your base camp for the summit. Eat and rest early in preparation for your midnight ascent to the peak.
Elevation: 4,673m (15,331ft) → 5,895m (19,341ft) → 3,100m (10,170ft)
Distance Covered: 17 km (10.6 miles)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Overview: Begin your summit push at midnight, reaching Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebration, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Elevation: 3,100m (10,170ft) → 1,640m (5,380ft)
Distance Covered: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overview: Final descent through the forest leads to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. After check-out, transfer back to Kilimanjaro International Airport
