Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as you embark on a 7-day trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the iconic Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route.” Known for its challenging but highly rewarding path, this route offers breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes as you make your way through five distinct climatic zones, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, all the way to the snow-capped Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or embarking on your first mountain expedition, this journey is the perfect blend of natural beauty, personal challenge, and unforgettable experiences. With our expert team of guides, porters, and cooks, you can focus on reaching the summit, knowing you’re in safe hands.
This private tour includes a pick-up and drop-off from Arusha town or Moshi town, with optional airport transfers and accommodation before and after the climb available at an additional cost.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha/Moshi to Machame Gate (1,800m) – Machame Camp (2,835m)
Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, followed by a scenic drive to the Machame Gate. Here, you’ll complete registration formalities while the porters prepare your gear. The trek kicks off with a hike through lush rainforest, where the air is fresh, and the scenery is vibrant. You’ll be surrounded by towering trees, ferns, and an array of wildlife, including monkeys and birds. The terrain is moderate, gradually ascending as you approach Machame Camp, your first stop. After a long day of trekking, settle into your tent, enjoy a hearty meal prepared by the crew, and take in the serene surroundings.
- Trekking time: 5-7 hours
- Distance: 11 km
- Altitude gain: 1,035m
Day 2: Machame Camp (2,835m) to Shira Camp (3,750m)
After a nourishing breakfast, you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone, where the landscape dramatically shifts to low-lying shrubs, heathers, and rocky terrain. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend, offering panoramic views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau. You’ll pass through various ridges and valleys as you make your way to Shira Camp, where the horizon opens up, revealing stunning views of Kibo Peak. Here, you’ll spend the evening, with plenty of time to rest and acclimatize.
- Trekking time: 4-6 hours
- Distance: 5 km
- Altitude gain: 915m
Day 3: Shira Camp (3,750m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,600m)
This day is a key acclimatization day as you ascend to the Lava Tower at 4,600 meters. The trail crosses semi-desert landscapes with sparse vegetation and striking rock formations. After reaching Lava Tower, where you’ll have lunch, you’ll descend back to Barranco Camp, located at a lower altitude. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to the thinner air and increases your chances of a successful summit. Along the way, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing views of the Western Breach and the Great Barranco Valley.
- Trekking time: 6-8 hours
- Distance: 10 km
- Altitude gain: 850m (ascend) / 640m (descend)
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
The morning begins with an exhilarating scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable rock face that requires some hands-on climbing. The effort is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Kibo and the surrounding glaciers. The trail then winds through alpine desert, crossing ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp. This short but intense day allows more time for acclimatization and offers breathtaking vistas of the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro.
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 5 km
- Altitude gain: 75m
Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Today’s trek takes you to Barafu Camp, the final staging point before your summit attempt. The trail is steep and winds through alpine desert, with rugged, barren landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. As you approach Barafu, the excitement builds as the summit of Uhuru Peak looms in the distance. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into camp early for dinner and rest, as you’ll begin your summit push around midnight. Your guides will give a briefing on the upcoming ascent, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the final challenge.
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 4 km
- Altitude gain: 605m
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,110m)
Your summit attempt begins in the early hours of the morning, around midnight. Equipped with headlamps and layers to ward off the cold, you’ll make the slow, steady climb through Arctic conditions toward the summit. The trail zigzags up a steep scree slope until you reach Stella Point on the crater rim, where the sun begins to rise, casting golden light over the landscape. From here, it’s another hour to the Roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters. After celebrating your achievement and soaking in the unparalleled views, you’ll begin your descent back to Mweka Camp. The descent is long but rewarding as you pass through the same stunning landscapes, eventually returning to warmer temperatures.
- Trekking time: 12-15 hours (total ascent and descent)
- Distance: 17 km
- Altitude gain: 1,255m (ascend) / 2,785m (descend)
Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,110m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha/Moshi
After breakfast, you’ll make your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll be awarded certificates for successfully completing the climb. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, marking the end of your incredible adventure. Drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport can be arranged at an extra cost.
- Trekking time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 10 km
- Altitude loss: 1,470m
Inclusions:
- Pick-up and drop-off in Arusha or Moshi town
- All park entry and camping fees
- Professional guides, porters, and cooks
- 3 meals daily on the mountain
- Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping pads
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Certificate of achievement upon completion
Exclusions:
- Flights and airport transfers (available at an extra cost)
- Accommodation before and after the climb (available at an extra cost)
- Personal climbing gear (can be rented)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
