7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS Machame route Epic Glacial Photography
Tour Overview
The 7-Day Machame Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its varied landscapes, the route starts in lush rainforest, moves through moorlands and alpine desert, and ends at the snow-covered summit of Uhuru Peak. With an extra day for acclimatization, this itinerary increases your chances of a successful summit while giving you more time to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Each day offers a unique experience towering trees, volcanic rock formations, open plains, and glaciers creating a journey filled with moments to admire the mountain’s beauty and reflect on the climb ahead.
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Duration: 7 Days
When to go: All Year Round
FULL ITINERARY
Arrival at Kilimanjaro and Transfer to the Hotel
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Spend the day resting after your flight, unpacking gear, and making sure all equipment is ready for the climb. You will also meet your guide for a briefing on the route, safety, and acclimatization. The peaceful evening and soft mountain views provide a relaxing start to your adventure.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Lodge / Hotel
MEAL PLAN
Full Board
Day 1:
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Distance: ~11 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Elevation Change: 1,800 m → 3,000 m
The climb begins at Machame Gate. You enter the lush rainforest where towering trees, moss-covered branches, and thick undergrowth create a cool, shaded path. The air is fresh and fragrant, and the sounds of birds and monkeys fill the forest. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating patterns on the ground that shift as you walk.
The trail steadily climbs through the forest, and as you gain elevation, you see views of the lower valleys and distant hills. Machame Camp is nestled in a quiet clearing, surrounded by greenery and mist that sometimes rolls through the trees, making it a serene place to rest after the day’s hike.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Machame Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast (at hotel), Lunch, Dinner
Day 2:
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6hours
Elevation Change: 3,000 m → 3,840 m
Today’s hike climbs out of the rainforest and into the open moorland. The scenery changes quickly: trees become sparse, grasses and shrubs dominate, and volcanic rock formations appear along the trail. Clouds often drift below, creating a feeling of walking above the world.
The plateau near Shira Camp offers wide-open views of the surrounding valleys and the peaks ahead. Mount Meru can sometimes be seen in the distance on clear days. Shira Camp itself sits in a peaceful location with wide spaces to relax and watch the evening colors change across the mountain.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Barranco Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3:
Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Elevation Change: 3,840 m → 4,600 m → 3,950 m
Today is a climb-high, sleep-low day, which helps your body adjust to the altitude. The trail climbs steadily toward Lava Tower, a large volcanic rock rising dramatically from the landscape. The thin air and cooler temperatures remind you of the increasing elevation.
After reaching Lava Tower, the trail descends into a scenic valley with giant senecio trees, unusual rock formations, and clear skies above. You continue to Barranco Camp, located below the famous Barranco Wall. The evening light often highlights the cliffs and glaciers with warm colors, making it a peaceful and inspiring place to rest.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Barranco Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4:
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Change: 3,950 m → 4,035 m
The day begins with the climb up the Barranco Wall. Though steep, the path is manageable and offers excellent views of the valleys and peaks surrounding the trail. After the wall, the trail winds through rolling terrain, small streams, and open ridges.
The landscape gradually shifts into rocky high-altitude desert, with dry ground and sparse vegetation. Karanga Camp is set on a ridge, providing wide, quiet views of the surrounding valleys and upper slopes of Kilimanjaro. Evenings here are calm, perfect for resting and reflecting on the journey so far.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Karanga Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5:
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Distance: ~4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Elevation Change: 4,035 m → 4,640 m
Today’s climb is relatively short but important for acclimatization. The path rises steadily through rocky terrain and barren alpine desert, with wide views of the upper slopes of Kibo. You may see glaciers and snow as you approach
Barafu Camp.
Barafu sits on a narrow, exposed ridge, giving a sense of the challenge ahead. The camp is windy but offers clear views of the summit. After arrival, take time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the summit night. Early dinner is served before a few hours of sleep in preparation for the climb.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Barafu Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6:
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Distance: ~17 km
Hiking Time: 11–14 hours
Elevation Change: 4,640 m → 5,895 m → 3,080 m
Summit day begins just after midnight. You climb slowly up steep slopes under a sky full of stars, with only your headlamp guiding the way. The air is cold and thin, and each step is challenging. As dawn approaches, the sun rises behind Mawenzi Peak, casting golden light on glaciers and rocky ridges. Reaching Stella Point on the crater rim gives your first glimpse into the crater, and a final push leads to Uhuru Peak the highest point in Africa.
After taking in the summit views and celebrating the achievement, the descent begins. You return past Barafu for a short rest, then continue down through alpine desert and moorland until reaching Mweka Camp. The sound of trees and wildlife returns, creating a peaceful end to a long day.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Mweka Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7:
Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Hotel
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Elevation Change: 3,080 m → 1,640 m
The final day of the climb is a gentle descent through rainforest. The air is warmer, and the sounds of birds and monkeys fill the forest. Walking down the familiar trail allows you to reflect on the journey and enjoy the last views of the mountain.
At Mweka Gate, you receive your summit certificate and meet your driver for transfer back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. A warm shower, comfortable bed, and a sense of accomplishment await you.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Departure Day
After a restful night at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport or your next destination. This day is for reflection, rest, and preparing for the next part of your journey. You can look back on your Kilimanjaro climb with pride and enjoy a smooth, comfortable transfer as you leave Tanzania or continue your adventures.
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast
Tour Inclusion
- Accommodation on full board basis
- All park entry fees
- Photographic guidance
- Domestic flights and road transfers
- Soft drinks and snacks
- Support equipment (bean bags, charging station, etc.)
Tour Exclusion
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
- Staff gratuities
- Personal expenses
Price Per Person
|
Number of Person
|
Price per Person
|
|---|---|
|
PAX 2 |
$ 480 |
|
PAX 3 |
$ 460 |
|
PAX 4 |
$ 440 |
|
PAX 5+ |
$ 567 |
Tour Inclusion
- Accommodation on full board basis
- All park entry fees
- Photographic guidance
- Domestic flights and road transfers
- Soft drinks and snacks
- Support equipment (bean bags, charging station, etc.)
Tour Exclusion
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
- Staff gratuities
- Personal expenses
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