Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trek to Uhuru Peak

7 Days Round trip from Barangata Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek the scenic and popular Machame Route through diverse landscapes
02 Experience rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glacier peaks
03 Use the "climb high, sleep low" approach for better acclimatization
04 Summit Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters on a challenging midnight trek
05 Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate at the end of the journey

Embark on a 7-day adventure along the Machame Route, one of the most scenic and popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Trek through diverse landscapes including rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert as you gradually ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Enjoy excellent acclimatization, experienced guides, and breathtaking views on this challenging yet rewarding climb.

Begin the midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Machame

Languages Dutch, English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Swahili, Swedish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Machame Gate to Machame Camp Through Rainforest

Begin the trek through lush rainforest.
Camp in the moorland at Machame Camp.

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 11 km

Day 02

Machame Camp to Shira Camp Across Moorland

Hike out of the forest into the moorland zone.
Enjoy spectacular views of Shira Plateau.

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 5 km

Day 03

Lava Tower Acclimatization and Descent to Barranco

Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), then descend to Barranco.
Acclimatization day following the "climb high, sleep low" principle.

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours | Distance: 10 km

Day 04

Barranco Wall Climb to Karanga Camp

Climb the famous Barranco Wall.
Enjoy a short but steep hike with great views.

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 5 km

Day 05

Alpine Desert Traverse to Barafu Camp

Traverse the alpine desert.
Rest early in preparation for the summit push.

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 4 km

Day 06

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent

Begin the midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak.
Reach the summit and descend back to Mweka Camp for rest.

Hiking Time: 12-14 hours | Distance: 17 km

Day 07

Rainforest Descent to Mweka Gate

Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate.
Receive your summit certificate at the gate.

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 10 km

Where this trip takes you

Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

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

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All park entry and rescue fees
Camping equipment (tent, mat, dining gear)
Professional guides, porters, and cook
All meals on the mountain
Drinking water and crew support
Pre-trek briefing

What's Not Included

International and domestic flights
Sleeping bag, trekking poles, and other gear rental
Tips (guidelines provided)
Personal insurance
Extra accommodation before or after the trek
Beverages and snacks not included in meals

What to bring

4-season sleeping bag
Waterproof jacket and pants
Thermal layers and insulated jacket
Trekking poles
Headlamp and power bank
Day pack and duffel bag
Gaiters and hiking boots
Altitude medication (if prescribed)

Know before you go

The 7-day route provides excellent acclimatization and increases your summit chances.
This is a camping route-expect portable toilets and no permanent shelters.
The Barranco Wall is not technical but requires confidence and stamina.
Weather can be unpredictable-pack layers and waterproof gear.
This route is physically demanding and recommended for fit trekkers.
Airport transfers can be arranged on request.

Logistics