Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Machame Route to Uhuru Peak

7 Days Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek through lush rainforest on the climb to Machame Camp
02 Cross the Shira Plateau through rocky ridges, heather, and open moorlands
03 Hike to the dramatic Lava Tower and descend through the beautiful Senecio Forest
04 Climb the Great Barranco Wall and traverse the hills and valleys beyond
05 Take in summit views from Barafu Camp with Mawenzi and Kibo in sight
06 Make a challenging pre-dawn ascent to Uhuru Peak with sunrise near Stella Point

Embark on a breathtaking 7-day Kilimanjaro trek via the Machame Route, beginning in lush rainforest and ascending through heather moorlands, the Shira Plateau, and the dramatic Lava Tower. Tackle the Great Barranco Wall, continue through Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp, and prepare for a challenging pre-dawn summit push. Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in Africa, with a magnificent sunrise near Stella Point, then descend to Mweka Gate to celebrate with your summit certificate.

Near Stella Point at 18,900 ft, you will be rewarded with a magnificent sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Machame

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Moshi and Trek to Machame Camp

Arrive in Moshi and drive to Machame Gate. The journey takes about 50 minutes and passes through Machame village on the lower slopes of the mountain.
After leaving the park gate, walk through dense rainforest along a winding trail up a ridge until you reach Machame Camp.

Day 02

Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp عبر Moorlands

Leave the rainforest glades behind and continue on an ascending path toward a steep, rocky ridge.
Cross the Shira Plateau through heather and open moorlands, then pass over a large river gorge before arriving at Shira 2 Camp.

Day 03

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

Continue east along a ridge, then head southeast toward Lava Tower, a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation.
Descend to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest at an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent higher up helps with acclimatization.

Day 04

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp via the Great Barranco Wall

Begin the day by descending into a ravine at the base of the Great Barranco Wall.
Then climb the steep but non-technical cliff of nearly 900 ft. From the top of the Barranco Wall, cross a series of hills and valleys before descending sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb brings you to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day designed for acclimatization.

Day 05

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp on the Southern Circuit

Leave Karanga and follow the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail.
Continue upward to the rocky section of Barafu Hut.
By this stage, you will have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles.
Set up camp here, rest, and enjoy an early dinner in preparation for summit day. From this position, both Mawenzi and Kibo are visible.

Day 06

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Begin the summit push around midnight. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek, and the wind and cold at this elevation and hour can be extreme.
Climb in the darkness for several hours, taking frequent but short breaks. Near Stella Point at 18,900 ft, you will be rewarded with a magnificent sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.
Finally, arrive at Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and on the African continent.

Day 07

Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi

On the final day, continue descending to Mweka Gate and collect your summit certificates. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy.
From the gate, continue for another hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle will meet you and drive you back to your hotel in Moshi.

Where this trip takes you

Machame Camp rainforest, Shira Plateau moorlands, Lava Tower volcanic rock, Uhuru Peak at Stella Point sunrise

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd 3 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private transport to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi
2 nights of accommodation in Moshi
Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
Park entry fees
Camping fees
Team Kilimanjaro rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees and services
4-season mountain tents
Double-layered sleeping mats
3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
Sufficient treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and the Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Government taxes
Portable oxygen tanks and an ox meter
Emergency first-aid kit

What's Not Included

Lunches, dinners, and drinks at your hotel before and after the climb
Travel insurance
A portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is available for an extra charge of $70 for the entire trek
Flights
Laundry, available at the hotel
Personal items and toiletries
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks

What to bring

Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers such as fleece, and weatherproof outer layers such as a rain jacket and rain pants.
Warm hats, gloves, and thermal socks.
Sturdy, well-fitting trekking boots with good ankle support, plus comfortable camp shoes or sandals for relaxing after the trek.
Sleeping gear.
Water bottles and energy snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
Trekking equipment: trekking poles, a good-quality daypack for carrying your essentials, and a personal first-aid kit.

Know before you go

The Machame Route is known for its steeper ascent, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness. It is essential to acclimatize properly during the trek. Take it slow, drink plenty of water, and be attentive to any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Weather on Kilimanjaro can vary dramatically. Be prepared for both warm and cold conditions. Essential gear includes a good-quality waterproof jacket, warm layers, a hat, gloves, and proper trekking boots. Do not forget sunscreen and sunglasses for sun protection at higher altitudes.
Select a trekking company that prioritizes safety and has experienced guides. Look for companies with good reviews, proper licenses, and ethical, environmentally responsible practices.
Train in advance to build your endurance and strength. Hike regularly, and include cardio and strength training in your routine to prepare for the physical demands of the trek.
While your trek costs may be covered, remember to budget for tips for your guides, porters, and chef. Also consider additional costs such as travel insurance, tips, and any gear you may need to purchase or rent.
Being well prepared will enhance your experience and safety as you tackle the stunning Machame Route.

Logistics