Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Machame Route to Uhuru Peak

7 Days Round trip from W738+XPH Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Ascend through diverse ecological zones including rainforest, heath, moorland, and alpine desert
02 Traverse the stunning Shira Plateau and South Circuit with panoramic mountain vistas
03 Climb the iconic Barranco Wall, a steep and scenic highlight of the Machame Route
04 Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters
05 Acclimatize strategically with altitude variation to improve summit success
06 Celebrate your achievement with a summit certificate at Mweka Gate

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Kilimanjaro trek via the breathtaking Machame Route, one of the most scenic and popular trails to Africa's highest peak. Journey through lush rainforests, dramatic moorlands, and alpine desert, tackle the iconic Barranco Wall, and enjoy panoramic views along the South Circuit. The climb culminates at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa, before descending through changing mountain landscapes to Mweka Gate.

Rest briefly at Stella Point while witnessing an unforgettable sunrise over the African plains.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Machame

Languages English, French, German, Italian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Transfer to Machame Gate and Trek to Machame Camp

Drive from your hotel in Moshi to Machame Gate, which takes approximately one hour.
Pass through the village of Machame, located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Begin the trek through lush rain forest on a winding trail that ascends steadily up a ridge.
Navigate potentially muddy and slippery terrain, especially at lower elevations; use gaiters and trekking poles for stability.
Arrive at Machame Camp and settle in for your first night on the mountain.

Day 02

Rainforest to Moorland on the Way to Shira Camp

Eat breakfast and depart the rainforest, transitioning into heathland and moorland zones.
Follow an ascending path and cross a deep valley before climbing a steep rocky ridge.
Turn westward into a river gorge and continue trekking until you reach the Shira Plateau.
Arrive at Shira Camp and enjoy expansive views of the mountain landscape.

Day 03

Acclimatization Trek via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Begin the day heading eastward up a ridge toward the junction near Kibo Peak.
Ascend steadily toward Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation known as the 'Shark's Tooth' (elevation 4650 m / 15,250 ft).
Take time to rest and acclimatize at this high point before descending.
Continue to the second junction toward Arrow Glacier, then descend sharply into the Barranco Valley.
Reach Barranco Camp by evening; although elevation gain is minimal today, acclimatization is critical.

Day 04

Barranco Wall Climb to Karanga Camp

Eat breakfast and tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep and scenic rock face offering panoramic views.
Ascend the wall and traverse through several valleys and ridges.
Descend into the Karanga Valley, then climb again to reach Karanga Camp.
Join the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail, the route used for descent.

Day 05

South Circuit Ascent to Barafu Camp

Continue the steady ascent toward Barafu Camp, located in a barren alpine desert zone.
Complete the South Circuit, which provides striking views of the summit from different angles.
Arrive at Barafu Camp, rest, eat dinner, and prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 06

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Wake up around midnight to begin the summit ascent between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers.
Move in a northwesterly direction, navigating heavy scree on the way to Stella Point (elevation 5756 m / 18,885 ft).
Rest briefly at Stella Point while witnessing an unforgettable sunrise over the African plains.
Continue for about one hour along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak (elevation 5895 m / 19,341 ft), the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate your summit achievement, then begin the descent by returning to Barafu Camp for lunch.
Descend further to Mweka Camp through loose gravel terrain; use trekking poles for balance.
Arrive at Mweka Camp and enjoy your final night on the mountain.

Day 07

Final Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi

Eat breakfast and continue your final descent through the montane forest.
Reach Mweka Gate, where you will receive summit certificates to commemorate your achievement.
Encounter potentially muddy trails; wear gaiters and keep trekking poles ready.
Dress in shorts and t-shirts at lower altitudes, but keep rain gear accessible.
Meet your vehicle at the gate and drive approximately 30 minutes back to your hotel in Moshi.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from W738+XPH 3 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park Fees and Permits: These are mandatory and cover entry into Kilimanjaro National Park.
Guides and Porters: Licensed guides are essential for navigation and safety, while porters carry equipment and supplies.
Accommodation: This usually includes tents (or huts on the Marangu route).
Meals: All meals on the mountain are typically included, often prepared by a mountain chef.
Transfers: Transfers to and from the mountain are usually included.
Safety Equipment: Basic safety equipment, such as first-aid kits and emergency oxygen, may be included, according to Climb Kili.
Pre- and Post-Climb Support: Some packages include briefings, gear checks, and celebration dinners.

What's Not Included

Flights: International flights to and from Tanzania are generally not included.
Visas: Tanzanian visas are typically the climber's responsibility.
Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and other support staff are rarely included.
Personal Gear: Climbers need to bring their own gear, such as appropriate clothing, boots, and a sleeping bag.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical and evacuation coverage, is usually not included.
Pre/Post-Climb Accommodation and Meals: Unless specifically stated, accommodation and meals in Moshi before and after the trek are not included.
Personal Spending Money: Expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and snacks are not included.