7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route
the 7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route is one of the most scenic, adventurous, and rewarding paths to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Also known as the Whiskey Route, this trail has gained popularity among trekkers for its stunning landscapes, gradual acclimatization, and higher summit success rate compared to shorter routes.
Unlike the Marangu Route, which uses shared huts for accommodation, the Machame Route is a camping trail, allowing for a more authentic experience in nature. It winds through five distinct ecological zones—lush rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zone—offering ever-changing scenery that keeps the trek visually engaging and inspiring each day. You’ll walk past ancient trees, cross high ridges, traverse lava formations, and eventually gaze out over the clouds from Africa’s highest point: Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters).
One of the key advantages of the 7-day Machame Route is its effective acclimatization strategy. With an extra day on the mountain compared to the 6-day version, trekkers are better able to adapt to the increasing altitude. This “climb high, sleep low” approach—especially on Day 3 when you reach Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp—significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and improves your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
Whether you’re a first-time high-altitude trekker or a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging yet manageable climb, the 7-day Machame Route is ideal. It balances difficulty with beauty and adventure with safety, making it one of the top-recommended Kilimanjaro routes for those seeking a successful and unforgettable journey to the top of Africa.
With Kale Voyage Expedition, you’ll be guided by experienced, certified professionals and supported by a dedicated crew ensuring your comfort, safety, and success every step of the way.
Included/Exclude
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Professional English-speaking guides, cook & porters
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Park and rescue fees
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All camping gear and tents
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Full board on the mountain (3 meals per day)
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2 nights at Venice Hotel (Day 1 & Day 8)
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Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
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Oxygen cylinder, pulse oximeter, and first aid
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Summit certificate
- Sleeping bag
- Flights
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you'll be warmly welcomed by a Kale Voyage representative and transferred to Venice Hotel in Arusha. Rest, relax, and get ready for the big adventure. A pre-trek briefing with your mountain guide will take place in the evening.
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
Accommodation: Venice Hotel
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 11 km
Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate, where you’ll register and begin your trek. Hike through lush rainforest trails, encountering colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife, before reaching Machame Camp for your first night under the stars.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Machame Camp (tented)
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 5 km
Habitat: Moorland
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend through moorland landscapes. Cross the Shira Plateau, an ancient lava flow with sweeping views of the summit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Shira Camp (tented)
Day 4: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,976m)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
A key acclimatization day. Hike high to Lava Tower for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp for the night. This “climb high, sleep low” technique helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tented)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Tackle the thrilling Barranco Wall after breakfast, then make your way across ridges and valleys to the quiet and scenic Karanga Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tented)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 4 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Continue climbing toward Barafu Camp, your base camp for summit night. Arrive early to rest, hydrate, and prepare for your midnight push to the summit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tented)
Hiking Time: 12–16 hours
Distance: 17 km
Habitat: Arctic summit to rainforest
Around midnight, begin your final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa! Watch the sunrise from the top of Kilimanjaro before descending to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tented)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Forest
Descend through lush forest trails to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Venice Hotel in Arusha for a hot shower and relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Venice Hotel
After breakfast, enjoy free time until your airport transfer. A Kale Voyage driver will escort you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight or onward travel.
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer: Included
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