7 Days Machame Route
Tour Overview
Trekkers can embark on an amazing experience by joining a Kilimanjaro expedition via the Machame Route, which takes them to the famous Uhuru Peak, which is 5,895 metres (19,341 ft) above sea level and Africa’s highest point. The Machame Route, sometimes referred to as the “Whisky Route,” is well-known for its difficult terrain and breathtaking views as it passes through a variety of environments.
Before reaching the peak, this seven-day adventure promises to be an amazing experience as you pass through verdant rainforests, moorlands blanketed in heather, and untamed alpine deserts. Here is a detailed schedule with arrival and departure information to help you navigate this amazing journey.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at JRO
When you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your Kilimanjaro experience officially begins. Tanzania is the starting point of your journey, and our knowledgeable staff will extend a warm welcome to you upon arrival. After a smooth transport, you’ll arrive at your Arusha lodging, where you may relax, acclimatise and take part in an extensive pre-climb briefing to make sure you’re ready for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Machame Gate (1,490m) to Machame Camp (2,980m)
The Machame Gate is where your Kilimanjaro adventure begins (1,490 metres or 4,888 feet). You will register, meet your knowledgeable guides, and join other hikers on this first day. You’ll experience unusual flora and animals on this thrilling three to four-hour walk through the enchanted woods thanks to the trail. The Machame Camp will be your home base for the first night (2,980 metres or 9,777 ft).
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,840m)
The journey begins on Day 3, when you leave Machame Camp and make your way up to the Shira Plateau. This 4- to 6-hour section of the route passes over heather and moorland with breathtaking views of Shira Cathedral. For your overnight stay, Shira Camp (3,840 metres or 12,598 feet) is waiting for you.
Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
offers a thrilling task as you ascend the Barranco Wall, a precipitous rock scramble. Then you’ll go into the high desert, up to 4,600 metres (15,092 feet) before descending to the camp at Barranco (3,950 metres or 12,959 feet). The walk today takes five to seven hours.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m)
The thrilling rock scramble known as the Barranco Wall is the first task of the day. You’ll climb through the rocky terrain and arrive at Karanga Camp, which is located in the alpine desert at 3,995 metres (13,107 ft). This day’s walk should take three to four hours.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Travelling through rocky and desolate areas, you will gradually climb into Barafu Camp (4,673 metres or 15,331 feet) on Day 6. Located in the heart of the alpine desert, this camp is your last base before the summit push. Four to five hours will pass during the walk.
Day 7: Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Mweka Camp (3,100m)
It’s the most thrilling day of the year as you start your ascent. Depending on how quickly you go, you may wake up late on Day 6 or early on the next day. The climb will take you past the captivating Gilman’s Point (5,681 metres or 18,638 feet) on the crater rim and over difficult scree slopes.
At last, your goal will be reached at Africa’s highest point, Uhuru Peak (5,895 metres or 19,341 ft), where you can celebrate your victory. Then start downhill to Mweka Camp, which is 3,100 metres (10,170 feet) above sea level.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) and Departure
The final leg of your incredible journey takes you from Mweka Camp to the Mweka Gate (1,640 meters or 5,381 feet). Here, you’ll receive a well-deserved summit certificate as a testament to your determination and spirit.
Your adventure concludes with a transfer back to Arusha, where you can reminisce about your Kilimanjaro conquest before your departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This journey will etch the splendor of Mount Kilimanjaro into your life’s tapestry, leaving an indelible mark.
