Overview
Take on the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the 7-day Machame Route, known for its scenic beauty and high success rate. This extended version of the Machame trek allows for better acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 5,895m. The route passes through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and breathtaking ridges, offering a diverse and rewarding trekking experience.
Trip Highlights
- Trek through stunning landscapes, from rainforests to glaciers
- Extra acclimatization day for a higher summit success rate
- Climb the famous Barranco Wall for incredible views
- Reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa
- Led by experienced guides and supported by porters
Itinerary
- Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
The trek begins at Machame Gate, where you’ll register before starting the hike through a lush rainforest with towering trees and rich wildlife. The trail leads to Machame Camp, your first overnight stop.
- Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail steepens as you ascend into the moorland zone. The landscape opens up, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s peak. You’ll camp at Shira Plateau for the night.
- Elevation: 3,840m to 3,950m (via 4,630m at Lava Tower)
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
A critical acclimatization day as you ascend to Lava Tower at 4,630m before descending to Barranco Camp. This climb-high, sleep-low approach improves your ability to adapt to the altitude
- Elevation: 3,950m to 3,995m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Begin the day with a thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep ascent with stunning views. The trek continues with undulating terrain before reaching Karanga Camp for an overnight stay.
- Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
A shorter trek leading to Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit attempt. After an early dinner, you’ll rest before the midnight push to the summit.
- Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Summit day begins around midnight with a challenging ascent to Stella Point, then a final push to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
- Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
- Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
The final descent takes you back through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before returning to your hotel.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, chairs)
- All meals and drinking water during the trek
- Round-trip transport from your hotel to the mountain gate
- Emergency oxygen and rescue fees
Cost Excludes
- International flights
- Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Extra accommodation before/after the trek
FAQs
It is a challenging trek but provides an extra day for acclimatization, increasing the success rate.
The best months are January–March and June–October for stable weather conditions.
No technical climbing is required, but good fitness and endurance are necessary.
Temperatures can drop as low as -20°C, so warm clothing is essential.
With proper acclimatization, the success rate is around 90%, making it one of the best routes for reaching the summit.