Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trek to Uhuru Peak from Arusha

7 Days Round trip from Arusha Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Hike through lush rainforest on the ascent to Machame Camp at 3,000m
02 Take in panoramic views from Kilimanjaro's western slopes and the Shira Plateau
03 Conquer the Barranco Wall and cross the scenic Karanga Valley
04 Reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895m, the highest point in Africa
05 Celebrate your Kilimanjaro achievement after the descent to Mweka Gate

Embark on a memorable 7-day journey to summit Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route. This well-paced itinerary allows ample time for acclimatization, helping maximize your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Led by experienced guides, the expedition combines stunning scenery, camaraderie, and the ultimate achievement of standing atop Africa's highest peak.

Reach Stella Point (5,685m) at the edge of the crater rim, where you will witness a breathtaking sunrise.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Machame

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Machame Gate to Machame Camp Through Rainforest

In the morning, meet your guide and support team in Arusha, then drive to Machame Gate (1,800m).
Complete park registration and meet the rest of your trekking group.
Begin the trek through lush rainforest, ascending gradually toward Machame Camp (3,000m).
Enjoy the rich biodiversity of the forest and the first views of Kilimanjaro. Set up camp at Machame Camp, have dinner, and rest for the night.

Day 02

Machame Camp to Shira Camp Across Moorland

Depart Machame Camp after breakfast and continue the ascent through the rainforest.
Trek into the heath and moorland zones, ascending toward Shira Camp (3,840m).
Enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's western slopes and the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira Camp, set up camp, and rest for the evening.

Day 03

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Begin the day with breakfast and start trekking toward Barranco Camp (3,950m).
Traverse the alpine desert landscape, passing Lava Tower (4,630m) along the way.
Descend into the Barranco Valley, known for its unique flora and geological features. Arrive at Barranco Camp, set up camp, and rest for the night.

Day 04

Barranco Wall Climb to Karanga Camp

Start the day with a challenging climb up the Barranco Wall, a thrilling highlight of the route.
Traverse the Karanga Valley, ascending gradually toward Karanga Camp (4,035m).
Enjoy breathtaking views of the glaciers and surrounding peaks along the way. Arrive at Karanga Camp, set up camp, and rest for the evening.

Day 05

Karanga Camp to Barafu Base Camp

Depart Karanga Camp and continue the ascent toward Barafu Camp (4,600m), your final base camp.
Ascend through alpine desert terrain, navigating rocky trails and high-altitude landscapes.
Arrive at Barafu Camp in the afternoon, settle in, and prepare for the summit push. Eat an early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.

Day 06

Summit Day to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Wake before midnight for a light meal and begin the summit ascent under the cover of darkness.
Trek through the night, guided by headlamps and the rhythmic crunch of gravel underfoot.
Reach Stella Point (5,685m) at the edge of the crater rim, where you will witness a breathtaking sunrise.
Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate your achievement, take photos, and soak in the incredible views.
Descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Spend the night at Mweka Camp, reflecting on your journey and celebrating your accomplishment.

Day 07

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Return to Arusha

Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,650m), marking the end of your trek.
Receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your guides and porters.
Transfer back to your hotel in Arusha for a well-deserved shower and celebration.
Spend the evening reminiscing about your Kilimanjaro adventure and preparing for your departure the next day.

Where this trip takes you

Machame Camp rainforest, Shira Plateau panoramas, Barranco Wall, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 3 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Professional and experienced mountain guides
Guides, porters, cook salaries, and park fees
Sleeping mattress
Emergency oxygen cylinder
All meals while on the mountain
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Clean, purified drinking water
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Camping or hut fees (part of park fees)
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate

What's Not Included

Tanzania visa
International and domestic flights
Hotel (available as an optional add-on)
Transfers (available as an optional add-on)
Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc. (available for rent)
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Liquors, beers, and bottled beverages
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)

What to bring

Preparing for a Kilimanjaro climb requires careful consideration of the gear and equipment needed to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Clothing:

Moisture-wicking base layers: tops and bottoms to help regulate body temperature and manage sweat.
Insulating layers: fleece jackets, down jackets, or synthetic insulated jackets to keep warm at higher altitudes.
Waterproof and windproof jacket: protection against rain, snow, and wind.
Hiking pants: lightweight, quick-drying pants for trekking.
Convertible pants: pants that can be converted into shorts for variable weather conditions.
Synthetic or wool socks: several pairs of moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters.
Hiking boots: sturdy, waterproof boots with ankle support and good traction.
Gaiters: to keep snow, rocks, and debris out of your boots.
Sun hat and warm hat: protection from the sun during the day and warmth at night.
Gloves: lightweight gloves for hiking and warmer gloves or mittens for colder temperatures.
Buff or neck gaiter: this versatile accessory protects the neck and face from sun, wind, and cold.

Gear:

Daypack: a comfortable backpack for carrying essentials during daily hikes.
Sleeping bag: rated for cold temperatures (0°F to -10°F or lower) to stay warm at night.
Sleeping pad: insulated sleeping pad for cushioning and insulation from the ground.
Trekking poles: adjustable poles for stability and to reduce knee strain during descents.
Headlamp or flashlight: essential for navigating in the dark and for nighttime use.
Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses with high-quality lenses to shield eyes from glare and snow reflection.
Water bottles or hydration system: insulated water bottles or a hydration reservoir to stay hydrated.
Water purification: water purification tablets or a filtration system for refilling water along the trail.
Duffel or dry bag: pack gear for porters to carry between campsites.
Toiletries: including biodegradable soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, and toilet paper.
Personal first-aid kit: including basic medications, blister treatment, and any personal medications.

Miscellaneous:

Passport and permits: required documents for entering Tanzania and climbing Kilimanjaro.
Cash: for tipping guides, porters, and other expenses.
Camera or smartphone: for capturing memories of the journey.
Sunscreen: high SPF sunscreen to protect from sunburn at high altitudes.
Lip balm with SPF: to prevent chapped lips in dry and windy conditions.
Snacks: high-energy snacks like nuts, trail mix, and energy bars for on-the-go fuel.
Notebook and pen: for journaling or taking notes along the journey.

Optional:

Portable battery charger: to recharge electronics like cameras or smartphones.
Portable oxygen: in case of altitude sickness, especially for those prone to it.
Trekking towel: quick-drying and compact towel for personal hygiene.
Trekking snacks: favourite snacks for extra energy during long hikes.

Know before you go

Supplements: Off-season supplement = USD 75.
Charges apply for solo trekkers starting a new departure in March, April, May, and November. This does not apply if you join an existing group, and it does not apply if other trekkers also join your new group.

Logistics