Kilimanjaro via the Machame route in 7 days
In summary
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Sports
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Duration9 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationTanzania / Kilimanjaro
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AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions54.55 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
German
English
French
Swahili
Italian
In a few words
Opt for the challenge of the Machame route, nicknamed the "Whiskey Route," the most spectacular itinerary on Kilimanjaro . Renowned for its exceptional scenic beauty, this trek is for experienced hikers and adventure enthusiasts seeking a demanding physical challenge at high altitude.
The trek begins south of the mountain with a challenging hike through lush rainforest to the Shira Ridge. You will then traverse the volcano's southern flank, trekking beneath the majestic Southern Ice Field via the Southern Circuit. The final ascent to the summit is organized from Barafu Camp, while the descent is made via the Mweka Route.
This route is distinguished by its incredible diversity of landscapes, evolving from dense jungle to alpine deserts and finally to the arctic zone at the summit. Thanks to its profile, which allows for high ascents and lower overnight stays, this route promotes excellent acclimatization to altitude . Along the way, you will traverse striking volcanic panoramas and iconic landmarks such as the lava tower and the famous Barranco wall . An unforgettable adventure culminating in a unique sunrise above the clouds.
The highlights
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Climbing Kilimanjaro: Conquering the Roof of Africa
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An exceptional success rate of 95% thanks to a prolonged acclimatization period
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Private hiking with complete flexibility in scheduling
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
The 7-day Machame route is rated as moderately difficult to demanding. It is ideally suited to hikers with good physical fitness and strong determination. While no technical climbing experience is required, the route includes several steep sections, long days of hiking, and significant elevation gain in a relatively short period. The main challenge is not the terrain itself, but the high altitude, as hikers ascend from lush rainforest to the summit of Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
This route follows an excellent acclimatization profile, allowing hikers to gradually adapt to the thin air according to the principle of "climb high, sleep low." Key sections such as the Barranco Wall and the night at the summit demand endurance, mental resilience, and a steady pace. Summit day is particularly demanding, often involving 10 to 15 hours of hiking in intense cold and high-altitude conditions.
Despite these challenges, the Machame route in 7 days boasts one of the highest success rates on Kilimanjaro. With proper preparation, experienced guides, and a positive mindset, it is a rewarding and achievable adventure for most active hikers.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 9 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 587 m
- Average daily descent: 610 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
German
English
French
Swahili
Italian
Colman is one of our most experienced guides, with over 30 years in the business. Growing up on the slopes of Kilimanjaro in the village of Marangu, he learned firsthand what it takes to reach the summit. He began his journey in 1995 as a porter, carrying gear, pitching tents, and preparing equipment for the arduous days in the mountains. Now a licensed professional guide, he has successfully led hundreds of climbers to the roof of Africa.
Our mountain guides are fully licensed professionals with extensive trekking experience and Wilderness First Responder certification . Dedicated to your safety, comfort, and success, they provide expert guidance, in-depth knowledge of the terrain, and unwavering support at every stage of your mountain adventure.
Program
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Arrival
- Transportation Minibus - 00h40 - 30km
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) , our driver will meet you for your transfer to your accommodation located at the foot of the mountain.
At the end of the day, you will meet your guide for a full briefing and equipment check . If needed, all necessary equipment can be rented directly from our agency (additional fees apply). After these preparations, you will have some free time to relax before your first night at the hotel.
Day 1 -
From the Machame gate (1,790 m) to the Machame camp (3,010 m)
- Transportation Minibus - 04h01 - 20km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 1220 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After an hour's drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate, we completed the park formalities, met our porter team, and began the climb! The first section of the trail ascends steadily through a magnificent, dense rainforest. Because this trail is less frequented, the vegetation can be quite dense in places, and the ground is often wet and muddy.
Day 2 -
From Machame camp (3,010 m) to Shira camp (3,845 m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 835 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Our route continues through the forest until we reach the steep climb that leads to the Shira Plateau, where we can enjoy rewarding mountain views. Looking back, you can see Mount Meru in the distance, rising high above the city of Arusha.
Day 3 -
From Shira Cave Camp (3,845 m) to Barranco Camp (3,960 m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 115 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Now trekking across the high moorland, the landscape completely transforms the character of the trek. We traverse the southwest face of Kilimanjaro, passing beneath Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach, finally reaching camp. Although the day was spent at altitude (up to 4,600 m), we followed the golden rule of mountaineering: "climb high, sleep low," to promote acclimatization.
Day 4 -
From Camp Barranco (3,960 m) to Camp Karanga (3,963 m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 3 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Our day begins with a descent into the heart of the Great Barranco, a vast ravine. We then exit via a steep ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, which separates us from the southeast slopes of Kibo. It's a rock climb, not technical but long and tiring. Passing beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards the Karanga Valley. From there, a steep climb awaits us from the Karanga Valley to our campsite for the night, Karanga Camp, located at 3,963 m. For those who are feeling up to it, we will do an acclimatization walk in the mid-afternoon to about 4,200 m before descending back to camp for the night.
Day 5 -
From Karanga camp (3,963 m) to Barafu camp (4,640 m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 3 km
- Positive elevation gain 677 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a good night's rest and breakfast, we set off for Barafu Camp at 4,640 meters. The ascent will take us across desolate scree slopes, completely devoid of vegetation. It's a steep and strenuous trek, made even more difficult by the altitude.
Upon arriving at camp, we eat and spend the afternoon resting to prepare for the long night and day ahead. Staying hydrated and warm is essential. We have an early dinner and then try to get some sleep, as we will be getting up between 11:00 PM and midnight to begin the ascent to the summit.
Day 6 -
From Barafu Camp (4,640 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), then descent to Millennium Camp
- Activity Trekking
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 1255 m
- Negative elevation 2105 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We set off around midnight and begin a steep climb towards the summit glaciers. We'll be trekking through scree for four to five hours, but we'll gain an impressive amount of altitude in a short distance. The scenery is spectacular. We should reach the crater rim at Stella Point (5,739 m) just as the first rays of sunlight hit us. The majestic ice cliffs inside the crater surround us, and the view of the jagged peak of Mawenzi and beyond is breathtaking.
Another hour's walk finally takes us to the summit, *Uhuru Peak* (5,895 m). We begin our descent by returning to *Stella Point*, then descend the scree slope and the trail to Barafu Camp for breakfast, before finally continuing our descent to Millennium Camp for a long, well-deserved rest.
Day 7 -
From Millennium Camp (3,790 m) to the Mweka Gate (1,630 m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 12 km
- Negative elevation 2160 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A leisurely walk takes us down through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate, where we complete the park formalities and receive your climbing certificates, which you can proudly display! We then meet our vehicles for the return trip to the hotel in Moshi, where you can finally enjoy a well-deserved hot shower.
Day 8 -
Departure or extension of the adventure
- Transportation Minibus - 00h40 - 30km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This day is free for you to unwind and recover after your expedition before your return flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you can take the opportunity to explore the town of Moshi , soak up its local atmosphere, and pick up some souvenirs before your transfer to the airport.
Day 9
Accommodation
Accommodation in 3* hotels with swimming pool.
The night is spent in our spacious 4-season mountain tents.
Access
International flights are at your own expense and must be booked by you. Our driver can meet you at the airport at your chosen time and take you to your accommodation (included in the package). At the end of your climb, we will provide your return transfer to the airport for your departure. You also have the option of extending your stay by adding a safari or a beach extension.
Go to the starting point
Transportation is flexible and will be arranged according to your arrival and departure times.
Price details
The price includes
- Private transport: Return transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and your accommodation in Moshi.
- Accommodation: 2 nights in a hotel in Moshi (one night before and one night after the trek).
- Transfers to the mountain: Round-trip transportation between your hotel and the gates of the national park.
- Park fees: National park entrance fees and camping fees.
- Safety and rescue: Rescue costs of the "Team Kilimanjaro Rescue".
- Taxes: 18% VAT on tour services and government taxes included.
- Camping equipment: Mountain tents and sleeping mats.
- Mountain team: Accompanied by professional guides, a cook and experienced porters.
- Catering: 3 hot meals daily throughout the ascent.
- Hydration: Sufficient treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek.
- Hygiene: Hot water provided for daily washing.
- Ethics: Fair wages guaranteed for the entire mountain team.
- Medical safety: Emergency first aid kit.
The price does not include
- Private toilets: It is possible to rent a camping toilet with its dedicated tent for $80 for the entire trek.
- International flights: Air transport to and from Tanzania remains at your own expense.
- Laundry: Service available at the hotel in Moshi.
- Personal equipment: Personal toiletries and hiking clothing.
- Tips should be made according to the recommendations below:
- Main guide: $20/day
- Assistant guide: $15/day
- Cook: $12/day
- Porter: $8/day
- Mandatory NIC Inbound Travel Insurance: USD 44 (approx. €39) per adult
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate what formalities are required for entry and stay in the destination country. You can also consult this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
For connecting flights operated by different airlines, also check the formalities for countries you transit through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are compliant, in particular regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to still be valid 6 months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account customs restrictions and other obligations of the destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date — remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Sleeping mats : To ensure your thermal insulation and comfort during nights in a tent.
- Mountain tents : Robust, high-quality tents specifically designed to withstand winds and extreme high-altitude conditions.
- Chairs : Folding camping chairs for your rest and mealtimes.
- Tables ( Tables ): Mess tables set up in the communal tent for convivial meals.
- Cutlery and tableware : Complete service (plates, bowls, glasses and cutlery) maintained with rigorous hygiene.
Equipment to bring
Technical Clothing
- 1 – Rain jacket, breathable with hood
- 1 – Winter Jacket, synthetic or down
- 1 – Trekking Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
- 2 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric, quick-dry
- 1 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric, quick-dry
- 1 – Rain pants, breathable
- 1 – Rain poncho
- 1 – Hiking Trousers
- 1 – Fleece Pants (optional: for cold protection)
- 3 – Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric recommended
- 1 – Sport Bra (women)
- 1 – Shorts (optional)
Headwear
- 1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
- 1 – Winter Hat
- 1 – Balaclava (optional, recommended, effective against wind, cold & dust)
Handwear
- 1 – Gloves, thin liner
- 1 – Winter Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)
Footwear
- 1 – Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in
- 4 – Socks, wool or synthetic
- 1 – Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
- 1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)
Accessories
- 1 – Sunglasses or Goggles
- 2 – Water Bottle (1 Liter each)
- 1 – Water Bladder (2 Liter)
- 1 – Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
- 1 – Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (optional)
- 3 – Dry Bags (reusable plastic bags, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate (optional)
- 1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional, ideally part of your daypack)
Additional Equipment
- 1 – Head Lamp, with extra batteries
- 1 – Duffel Bag, 90-120L capacity, for porters to carry your equipment (Maximum 15kg)
- 1 – Daypack, 30-36L capacity, for you to carry your personal gear (10 kg)
- 1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons
- 1 – sleeping bag inlay (optional: in case you are likely to feel cold)
- 1 – Camp Pillow, inflatable (optional)
- 1 – Trekking Poles, collapsible (highly recommended)
- Other items:
- Sunscreen (30 or 50, highly recommended)
- Lip Balm (highly recommended)
- Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy (highly recommended)
- Wet Wipes (recommended)
- Insect Repellent, containing DEET (optional)
- Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
- Camera, with extra batteries (optional)
- Toilets (optional)
- Prescriptions (optional)
- Personal First Aid Kit (optional)
- Hand Sanitizer (optional)
- Toilet paper (optional)
- Paperwork & Documents:
- Trip Receipt
- Passport
- Visa (for most visitors available on arrival at the airport)
- Immunization Papers
- Travel Insurance (valid for the altitude of Kilimanjaro)
Clothing to bring
Technical Clothing
- Rain jacket: Waterproof and breathable with hood.
- Winter jacket: Down or synthetic (high mountain down jacket type).
- Hiking jacket: Fleece or "soft-shell" type.
- Short-sleeved T-shirts: Lightweight, breathable (moisture-wicking) and quick-drying.
- Long-sleeved T-shirt: Lightweight and breathable.
- Rain pants: Waterproof and breathable.
- Rain poncho.
- Hiking pants.
- Fleece pants: (Optional: for increased protection against the cold).
- Underwear: Breathable technical fabrics are highly recommended.
- Sports bra: (For women).
- Short: (Optional).
Head and Hand Protection
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap: For sun protection.
- Winter hat: Warm and covers the ears.
- Balaclava (Balaclava): (Optional but recommended against wind, cold and dust).
- Undergloves: Thin gloves (liners).
- Winter gloves: Very warm and ideally waterproof.
Shoes and Socks
- Hiking boots: Warm, waterproof and already worn (broken in).
- Pairs of socks: Wool (merino type) or synthetic.
- Lightweight shoes: Sneakers for the evening camp (optional).
- Gaiters: Waterproof (optional).
Accessories and Hydration
- Sunglasses or ski goggles.
- Water bottles: 1 liter capacity each.
- Water bladder (Camelbak type): 2 litre capacity.
- Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying (optional).
- "Pee" bottle: To avoid leaving the tent at night (optional).
- Waterproof bags: (Or reusable plastic bags of different sizes to keep your belongings dry).
- Backpack cover: Waterproof (often integrated into the backpack).
Additional Equipment
- Headlamp: With spare batteries.
- Duffel bag: Capacity of 90-120L, for carriers ( Maximum 15 kg ).
- Daypack: Capacity of 30-36L, for your personal belongings ( 10 kg maximum ).
- Sleeping bag: Very warm, "4 season" type (comfort -10°C/-15°C).
- Sleeping bag liner (Sleeping bag liner): (Optional: for extra warmth).
- Camp pillow: Inflatable (optional).
- Walking sticks: Telescopic ( highly recommended ).
Personal Care Products and Miscellaneous Items
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or 50 (highly recommended).
- Lip balm: (Highly recommended).
- Snacks: Light, high in calories and energy (highly recommended).
- Refreshing wipes: (Recommended).
- Insect repellent: Contains DEET (optional).
The Elizabeth team
Specializing in East Africa for over 10 years, this tour operator relies on three branches dedicated to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The team offers unparalleled local expertise to design authentic journeys to the heart of the region.
The team stands out for the diversity of adventures it offers: from iconic safaris in the Serengeti or the Masai Mara to challenging expeditions on Kilimanjaro and the Rwenzori Mountains. They also organize memorable treks to encounter gorillas, as well as relaxing stays on the beaches of Zanzibar and the Kenyan coast. Between wild savannah and crystal-clear shores, each itinerary is led by passionate experts to guarantee a fully immersive experience.
