Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trek to Uhuru Peak

7 Days Round trip from Moshi Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Ascend Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa
02 Climb the iconic Barranco Wall with breathtaking views
03 Journey through lush rainforest, heath, moorland, and rocky terrain
04 Follow the scenic Machame Route across Kilimanjaro's diverse landscapes

Join us on a 7-day adventure to summit Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the Machame Route. Trek through diverse landscapes, from dense rainforest and heath to rocky plateaus and alpine terrain, while taking on the iconic Barranco Wall. Reach Uhuru Peak for breathtaking views and the unforgettable achievement of standing at the highest point in Africa.

Join us on a 7-day adventure to summit Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the Machame Route.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Machame Gate to Machame Camp Through the Rainforest

The trek starts at Machame Gate, and you'll hike through the dense and lush rainforest. This is the longest day of the route, and it can take about 5-7 hours to reach Machame Camp. The campsite is located in the moorland zone.

Day 02

Machame Camp to Shira Camp Across Heath and Moorland

The trail ascends out of the forest and into the heath and moorland zone. You'll gain significant elevation, and the hike can take about 4-6 hours.

Day 03

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via the Shira Plateau

You'll continue to gain elevation as you cross the Shira Plateau. This day's hike can take around 5-7 hours. The landscape becomes increasingly rocky and barren.

Day 04

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp via Barranco Wall

The hike includes the famous Barranco Wall, a challenging climb with breathtaking views. After descending from the wall, you'll continue through the Karanga Valley to reach Karanga Camp. This day's hike can take about 4-5 hours.

Day 05

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp for Summit Preparation

The trail ascends, taking you to Barafu Camp, the last stop before your summit attempt. This is a relatively short hiking day, taking about 3-4 hours.

Day 06

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Mweka Camp

This is the summit day. You'll start your ascent to the summit during the night, typically around midnight. The trail is steep, and you'll reach Stella Point before making the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After reaching the summit, you'll return to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp. The summit hike can take 7-8 hours, and the descent to Mweka Camp can take about 5-7 hours.

Day 07

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Through the Rainforest

The final day of the trek takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates. The hike can take about 3-4 hours.

Where this trip takes you

Machame Gate, Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Moshi 2 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transfers on arrival and departure (airport pick-up and drop-off)
Three meals per day and two litres of mineral water
All entrance fees during the trek
Professional local guide
Crew salaries - guide, assistant guide, cook, and porters
All accommodation on the mountain - sleeping tents
Pre- and post-trek accommodation in town - one night before and one night after the trek (B&B)
Sleeping mattress
Walking poles
Hot water for washing
Transfer from the hotel to Machame Gate and from Mweka Gate to the hotel in Moshi

What's Not Included

International flight from your home country
Domestic flight
Travel and medical insurance - highly recommended
Shopping, alcohol, souvenirs, and other personal expenses
Entry visa for Tanzania
Tips for the crew
Laundry services
Trekking gear - any missing gear can be rented on this day

What to bring

Trekking gear: any missing gear can be rented on this day.

Know before you go

Dry Season (June to October):
- Considered the best time to climb Kilimanjaro.
- Generally dry weather with higher chances of clear skies.
- Excellent visibility for breathtaking views.
- Moderate temperatures for comfortable trekking.
- July and August are popular, so expect more trekkers.
Rainy Season (November to May):
- Includes short rains (November to mid-December) and long rains (March to May).
- Climbing is possible but less popular.
- Often cloudy, reducing visibility.
- Trails can be muddy and more challenging.
- Temperatures get colder as you ascend.
- Fewer trekkers, with a lush and green landscape.
Shoulder Seasons (Late December to February):
- Late December to February is considered the shoulder season.
- Generally good weather with fewer crowds compared to July and August.
- Ideal if you prefer less crowded trails.

In summary, the best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry season from June to October, with late June to early September being optimal for ideal conditions. Shoulder seasons in late December to February offer good weather with fewer crowds. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially at higher elevations, and ensure you book your climb in advance with a reputable tour operator for a safe and successful experience.

Logistics