7 Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Tour/Activity in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania

About this activity

A scenic and well-paced trek with diverse terrain, extra acclimatization, and a rewarding summit via the Barranco Wall.

Your Travel Experience with Shemeji Safari team

Day 1

Transfer from Arusha Hotel to Machame Gate

Enjoy a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from your Arusha hotel to Machame Gate, passing through lush countryside and local villages. A comfortable, private vehicle ensures a smooth journey to the southwestern entrance of Kilimanjaro, where your trek officially begins.

Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Your trek begins at Machame Gate (1,800m) with a gradual 5–7 hour hike through lush montane rainforest, rich in wildlife and dense vegetation. The trail leads to Machame Camp (2,835m), offering your first night on the mountain and a great start to acclimatization.

Day 2

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

From Machame Camp (2,835m), the trail ascends steeply through heather and moorland before leveling out onto the Shira Plateau. The 5–6 hour hike ends at Shira Camp (3,750m), where you'll enjoy expansive views and begin adjusting to the higher altitude.

Day 3

Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

This day involves a scenic acclimatization hike from Shira Camp (3,750m) up to Lava Tower (4,630m), followed by a descent to Barranco Camp (3,960m). The 6–8 hour trek traverses varied terrain, helping your body adjust to higher elevations while offering incredible views of the Western Breach and surrounding landscapes.

Day 4

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

From Barranco Camp (3,960m), the day begins with a climb up the iconic Barranco Wall, followed by a series of ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp (4,035m). This 4–5 hour trek offers dramatic views and is key for acclimatization before the final ascent.

Day 5

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

The trek from Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m) is a 3–4 hour gradual ascent through a barren alpine desert landscape. This short but important day prepares you for the summit push, with time to rest, hydrate, and acclimatize before the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.

Day 6

Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Summit day begins just after midnight with a challenging 6–8 hour climb from Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—Africa’s highest point. After a short celebration at the summit, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100m). It’s a long, demanding day covering 12–14 hours of trekking, but the reward is unforgettable.

Day 7

Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate

The final descent from Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) takes about 3–4 hours, winding through lush montane rainforest. At the gate, you’ll sign out of the park and receive your summit certificate, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Transfer Back to Arusha Hotel

After checking out at Mweka Gate, enjoy a comfortable 2.5 to 3-hour drive back to your Arusha hotel, passing through scenic landscapes—a relaxing end to your Kilimanjaro journey.