7 Days Mt.Kilimanjaro Climb – Machame Route

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The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers stunning views, diverse habitats, and a gradual acclimatization profile, making it an excellent choice for adventurous climbers.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800 m) to Machame Hut (2,835 m)
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Montane Forest
  • Accommodation: Full board at Machame Hut Camp

The climb begins at Machame Gate (1,800 m), ascending through the lush rainforest. As you gain altitude, enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. The trail leads to Machame Hut, situated at 2,835 m. On a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of Kibo’s glaciated dome if the evening clouds permit.

  • Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Accommodation: Full board at Shira Cave Camp

A shorter trek takes you up a steep ridge to a small cliff known as the Picnic Site. From there, the trail ascends gently through the lower alpine moorland, famed for its wildflowers. Spectacular views of Kibo Peak can be seen from Shira Camp.

  • Via Lava Tower Camp (4,600 m)
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Accommodation: Barranco Camp

The trail ascends gently with panoramic views, traversing Kilimanjaro’s southwest flank. After lunch near the Lava Tower (4,600 m), you descend into the Great Barranco Valley, arriving at Barranco Camp (3,900 m).

  • Distance: 6 km
  • Hiking Time: 3.5-4 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Climb the Great Barranco Wall, just below Heim Glacier, for stunning views. The trail descends into the Karanga Valley’s alpine desert before a steep ascent to Karanga Camp.

  • Distance: 4 km
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Accommodation: Barafu Hut Camp

A steep climb out of Karanga leads to a gentle ascent on compact scree. The barren landscape offers wide views, and both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks can be seen. After lunch, rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

  • Ascent Distance: 4.3 km to Stella Point / 5 km to Uhuru Peak
  • Descent Distance: 23 km to Mweka Camp
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent / 7-8 hours descent
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert to Ice-Capped Summit

Begin before midnight, climbing steep volcanic scree to Stella Point (5,756 m). After a brief rest, continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), Africa’s highest point. Descend swiftly to Barafu Camp for refreshments before continuing to Mweka Camp for the night.

  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Montane Forest

A gentle descent through the rainforest leads to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive summit certificates. After lunch, drive back to Arusha for a well-deserved rest. A private transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is included for your departure flight.

 ENQUIRY THIS TOUR

✅ Fullmoon Safaris

  • Fullmoon Safaris is a locally owned tour operator based in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. They’re registered and managing their own packages, including safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Tarangire) and Kilimanjaro treks, with a local foundation receiving 10% of income.

  • Founded by Emmanuel Teshaa, the company has been operating since around 2011 with a team of 26–50 employees TanzaPages+1.


What people are saying (reviews & experiences)

Mountain treks: Kilimanjaro

  • A Traveller (Thibaut & Florie) described a 6‑day climb via Machame route as “unbelievable and unforgettable,” praising the guides, cook and cheerful porters. They felt safe and well-supported at all times Tripadvisor.

  • Another reviewer (Faith Makaza Maipisi, Dec 2022) recounted a 7‑day Lemosho route with Fullmoon Safaris: “guides gave us ample time… the cooks were amazing… hot ginger water… celebration cake… brilliant stuff”—highlighting top-tier service and care Tripadvisor+1.

Safaris and local experiences

  • Returning client Sid (July 2023) booked a 3‑day safari and a coffee/waterfalls day trip with Emmanuel, and praised the accommodation, guide knowledge, and overall seamless experience. “You can be 100% confident…” he wrote Tripadvisor.

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Fullmoon Safaris, your partner for individual or group organized trips and safaris in Tanzania.

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