>Overview
The 7-day Machame Route is one of the most scenic, adventurous, and rewarding routes to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. With stunning landscapes ranging from rainforest to alpine desert and glacier-tipped peaks, this trek offers a high summit success rate and excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Duration: 6 nights / 7 days on the mountain
Route Style: Tent Camping
Altitude: Max 5,895m / 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best For: Adventurous hikers seeking scenery + summit success
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be met by a Wildhorn Africa representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and equipment check.
Overnight: Kibo Palace Hotel
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
TREK DAY 1: Arusha to Machame Camp
After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate (5,380 ft) and begin the journey through lush montane rainforest. Your ascent takes you through moss-draped trees and bird-rich jungle.
Arrival at Machame Hut Camp for dinner and rest.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~2,850 m / 9,350 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
TREK DAY 2: Machame Camp to Shira Plateau
Climb into the moorland zone as forest gives way to rocky ridges and panoramic views. You’ll hike at a steady pace, adapting to altitude. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp with views of Kibo Peak.
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~3,810 m / 12,500 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
TREK DAY 3: Shira to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
A critical acclimatization day. Hike to Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) before descending to Barranco Valley. Optional scramble up Lava Tower. Diverse vegetation zones and stunning terrain.
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~3,976 m / 13,044 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
TREK DAY 4: Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp
Climb the impressive Barranco Wall, then continue through ridges and valleys. A shorter hike allows time to rest and acclimatize. Optional afternoon hike for altitude adjustment.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~3,995 m / 13,106 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
TREK DAY 5: Karanga to Barafu Camp
Continue your circuit toward the final base before the summit: Barafu Camp. Enjoy early dinner and sleep before the midnight summit push.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~4,673 m / 15,331 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
TREK DAY 6: SUMMIT DAY – Barafu to Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp
Midnight departure toward Stella Point, then on to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)—Africa’s highest point. After sunrise and celebration, descend to Mweka Camp for recovery.
Ascent Time: 6–7 hours
Descent Time: 6–9 hours
Summit Altitude: 5,895 m / 19,341 ft
Overnight Altitude: ~3,100 m / 10,500 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
TREK DAY 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, Return to Arusha
Final descent through tropical forest to Mweka Gate (1,524 m / 5,000 ft). After receiving summit certificates, transfer back to Arusha for a hot shower and farewell dinner.
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Overnight: Kibo Palace Hotel (Optional)
Meals: Breakfast
Included in This Trek
- Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro Airport
- Accommodation before and after trek at Mount Meru Hotel
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional certified guides, porters & cook
- Quality, waterproof, four-season tents
- Sleeping mats and mess tents with chairs & table
- All meals on the mountain + clean drinking water
- Portable emergency oxygen, oximeter, and first-aid kit
- Crisis management and evacuation protocols
- Fair porter treatment as per KPAP standards
Not Included
- International flights
- Tips (recommended $15–25 per day for your team)
- Alcoholic & soft drinks
- Visa fees (Approx. $50–100 depending on nationality)
- Personal spending money (souvenirs, laundry)
- Travel & medical insurance (required)
- Portable toilet (available at extra cost)
⭐ Why Choose Wildhorn Africa for Kilimanjaro?
🥇 Expert Local Guides
Our mountain guides are certified, experienced, and passionate about your safety and summit success.
🏕️ High-Quality Equipment
We use top-tier tents, sleeping mats, and cooking gear for warmth, safety, and comfort.
🧭 Ethical and Responsible
We are committed to fair porter treatment, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism.
🍲 Nutritious Food
Delicious, energy-packed meals are freshly prepared by trained mountain chefs.
🚑 Safety First
We carry oxygen, first-aid kits, and monitor your vitals daily with pulse oximeters. Your well-being is our top priority.
