SafariBando / Safari & Tours / 7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route / Details



Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via The Machame Route 7 Days 

The Machame route, also known as the Whisky Route is one of the most scenic and recommended routes on Kilimanjaro.  This popular route with paths through magnificent forests to gain a ridge leading through the moorland zones to the Shira Plateau. It then traverses beneath the glaciated precipices of the Southern Ice fields to join the Barafu Route to the summit. Because it can be done over longer periods and the incline is more manageable it has a much higher success rate of summit.

Duration: 6 or 7 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: High


Note: This Itinerary can be customised to match your budget and travel dates


Destinations visited


Day to Day Itinerary


Arrival Day
 

  • Touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and meet a friendly SafariBando representative.
  • Relax at the comfortable Panama Garden Resort (BB included) with amenities like a pool and Wi-Fi.
  • Attend a briefing with experienced SafariBando managers who ensure you're prepared for the climb.


Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (5-6 hours, 5 km)

  • In the morning, meet your guide and support crew at the hotel for a pre-trek briefing.
  • Travel by vehicle to Machame Gate, the official entry point to Kilimanjaro National Park.
  • After registration and permits, embark on your trek through a lush rainforest (prepare for rain!).
  • Machame Camp offers your first night at altitude. Be mindful of hydration and avoid alcohol/caffeine.
  • Acclimatization Tip: Consider using altitude medication to ease potential altitude sickness symptoms.


Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (4-5 hours, 5 km)

  • After breakfast, ascend to Shira Camp, leaving the rainforest behind for breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau.
  • The trek is moderate, but altitude changes may be noticeable. Pace yourself for optimal acclimatization.
  • Enjoy lunch and rest at Shira Camp before an optional acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower (400m elevation gain).
  • Savor a hot dinner back at camp.


Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower (6-8 hours, 11 km)

  • Depart Shira Camp and conquer the challenging yet rewarding rise-and-fall trek to Lava Tower.
  • Reaching 4,600 meters, lunch atop Lava Tower provides valuable acclimatization time.
  • Descend approximately 700 meters to Barranco Camp, where you'll be greeted by the imposing Barranco Wall.
  • Take comfort knowing tomorrow's climb is less intimidating than it appears.


Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4-5 hours, 5 km)

  • Embrace an early start to avoid crowds on the seemingly daunting Barranco Wall.
  • Despite its appearance, the actual climb is manageable, taking about an hour.
  • The reward? Breathtaking photo opportunities with Kibo Peak as the backdrop.
  • Your guides will navigate the ups and downs of the trail, choosing the best pace for each trekker.
  • Enjoy lunch at Karanga Camp, followed by an acclimatization hike towards Barafu Camp.
  • After reaching the highest point of the hike (3,995 meters), descend back to Karanga Camp for the night.


Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4-5 hours, 6 km)

  • Ascend to Barafu Camp, your summit night camp. Your dedicated team will set up tents and sleeping bags for your arrival.
  • After regaining strength, embark on an acclimatization climb towards the Kosovo Summit Camp (4,870 meters).
  • Return to Barafu Camp for a hot dinner and a crucial night of rest before your summit push.


Day 6: Summit Day! Uhuru Peak and Descent to Millennium Camp (7-12 hours, 15 km)

  • Begin your summit ascent around midnight, starting at 4,870 meters and climbing to the glorious Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa.
  • Though the route is straightforward, the high altitude intensifies exertion.
  • For safety, climbers will be paired with personal guides who monitor their condition throughout the climb.
  • Celebrate your summit achievement with a walk to the nearby glacier.
  • Descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp.
  • Important Note: Be extra cautious during the descent, where loose footing can lead to injuries.


Day 7: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate and Departure (4-5 hours, 12 km)

  • Sleep soundly at the lower altitude of Millennium Camp, savoring the accomplishment of reaching the summit.
  • Enjoy breakfast before your final descent to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters).
  • Celebrate your incredible journey with the entire climbing crew and receive your well-deserved summit certificates.
  • Relax and reflect on your adventure back at the Panama Garden Resort (LB included).

Departure: The hotel checkout is at 11:00 AM. Late check-out options are available for evening flights (additional fees may apply).

Throughout your climb, enjoy delicious meals prepared by our experienced cooks and professional mountain guides who ensure your safety and well-being.


Price for 7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route / Rates Per Person

$3,200 per person when 1 person treks alone
$2,550 per person when 2 persons trek together
$2,150 per person when 3 persons trek together
$2,070 per person when 4 persons trek together
$2,000 per person when 5 persons trek together
$1,950 per person when 6+ persons trek together


For a more accurate estimate, it's best to contact us directly and discuss your specific requirements and budget. We can provide you with a detailed quote based on your itinerary, group size, and preferred level of comfort


Cost Includes

  • 2 Night Hotel accommodation in Moshi, a day before trek and a day after trek
  • Transportation to and from your selected route
  • Quality, Waterproof, four-season private mountain sleeping tent
  • Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
  • Certified, experienced, English speaking mountain guides:
  • All Tanzanian National Park Fees
  • Government Climbing Taxes
  • Climbing permits
  • All hot Meals prepared by our cook while on Mountain
  • Guides, Porters and Cook Salaries
  • Fair and ethical treatment of Porters
  • Enough porters to carry your luggage
  • Safety Equipment
  • Emergency Oxygen
  • Pulse Ox meter
  • Hot drinks at every meal
  • Water provided on climb, mineral water for the first day and boiled water every day
  • Emergency rescue fees
  • Personal Summit Certificate signed by the National Park and your Guide

Cost Excludes

  • Personal items and toiletries
  • Tips for guides, porters and cook (this is a guide to tipping on the mountain
  • Tipping on Kilimanjaro from the trekking group (not per climber):
    • Guides: $20/day/guide
    • Cook: $15/day
    • Porter: $10/day/porter
    • N/B: Our Guides, cooks and Porters are always satisfied with your thanks giving (tip) you have and not beyond your ability.
  • International airfares and departure taxes
  • All items of person nature such as telephone call, fax, email etc
  • Alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
  • Laundry services
  • Visa and International flight tickets fees.