7 Day Machame Route

7 Day Machame Route – Kilimanjaro Climb Package

The 7 day Machame Route offers a more gradual ascent of Kilimanjaro, making it ideal for climbers seeking better acclimatization and a higher success rate. Known for its varied landscapes and iconic features like the Barranco Wall, this route combines adventure, beauty, and a well-paced itinerary.

Compared to the 6-day version, the 7-day itinerary adds an extra night at Karanga Camp, allowing for improved adaptation to altitude and more rest before the summit push. It's a favorite among trekkers aiming to increase their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

At a Glance

  • Duration: 7 Days on the mountain

  • Route Type: Tent camping

  • Start Point: Machame Gate

  • End Point: Mweka Gate

  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

  • Scenery: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers

  • Best For: Trekkers wanting a balanced approach to acclimatization and success

Karanga Camp with Kilimanjaro summit view at sunrise

Detailed Itinerary – 7 Day Machame Route

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Begin your trek at Machame Gate. Hike through lush rainforest teeming with birds and monkeys. Reach Machame Camp by late afternoon and enjoy your first evening on the mountain.

  • Elevation Gain: 1,800m to 3,000m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Machame Camp

    • Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

    Ascend through moorland and open heath. The path steepens, but panoramic views reward your effort. Arrive at Shira Camp on the plateau beneath Kibo Peak.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,000m to 3,840m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Shira Camp

    • Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

    Today is crucial for acclimatization. Climb to Lava Tower at 4,630m, then descend to Barranco Camp. The route provides diverse terrain and striking geological features.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,840m to 4,630m (Lava Tower), then down to 3,960m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
  • Habitat: Semi-desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Barranco Camp

    • Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

    Tackle the Barranco Wall, a dramatic but safe scramble. Cross rolling terrain and enjoy beautiful views en route to Karanga Camp for a shorter, easier day.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,960m to 3,995m
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Karanga Camp

    • Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

    Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp. The alpine landscape becomes stark, but excitement builds as summit day nears. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight climb.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,995m to 4,673m
  • Distance: 4 km
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Barafu Camp

    • Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp

    Depart just before midnight. Climb steep slopes to Stella Point and continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating at the top, descend to Barafu, rest briefly, then continue to Mweka Camp.

  • Elevation Gain: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
  • Descent: Down to 3,100m
  • Distance: 17 km
  • Hiking Time: 12–14 hours total
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Mweka Camp

    • Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

    A final descent through rainforest leads to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi for a well-earned rest.

  • Elevation Loss: 3,100m to 1,640m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Breakfast

    • What's Included

    • All Kilimanjaro National Park fees

    • Tent accommodations and camping gear

    • Professional guides, porters, and cook

    • All meals on the mountain

    • Drinking water and hot beverages

    • Rescue fees

    • First-aid kit and oxygen cylinder

    • Pre- and post-trek briefing

    • Transfers to/from Machame Gate

    • Summit certificate (gold for Uhuru, green for Stella Point)

     

     

    What's Not Included

    • International flights and visas

    • Travel insurance

    • Tips for crew

    • Personal trekking equipment

    • Pre/post trek accommodation (available on request)

    • Extra snacks and drinks

    • Portable toilet (available at extra cost)

     

    FAQs – 7 Day Machame Route

    Why choose the 7-day version over the 6-day itinerary?
    The 7 day Machame Route offers an extra day for acclimatization, significantly increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit. With more time to adjust to the altitude, your body can better cope with the elevation gain—making this version safer and more effective, especially for first-time climbers.
    Is the Machame Route good for first-time trekkers?
    Yes, the 7-day Machame Route is ideal for beginners who are physically fit and well-prepared. The additional day reduces fatigue and altitude-related symptoms, making the trek more manageable and enjoyable. Many first-time climbers choose this route for its balance of scenic beauty and gradual ascent.
    Do I sleep in huts or tents?
    You’ll sleep in high-quality, waterproof mountain tents each night. Kilimanjaro’s Machame Route is a camping route, not a hut-based route like the Marangu Route.We provides all necessary camping equipment, including sleeping tents, dining tents, sleeping mats, and chairs.
    Is the Barranco Wall difficult or dangerous?
    The Barranco Wall may look intimidating, but it's a non-technical scramble that most trekkers find fun and exciting. With careful footwork and the guidance of your expert mountain crew, it's a safe and rewarding part of the trek. No climbing gear is required—just a good sense of balance and confidence.
    When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro via Machame Route?
    The best times to climb are during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These months typically offer clearer skies, less rain, and better trail conditions, making the overall experience more pleasant and safe.
    What gear do I need for the 7-day Machame climb?
    Essential items include:
  • Warm layers for cold nights
  • Waterproof outerwear (jacket and pants)
  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented)
  • Trekking poles (recommended)
  • water bottles
  • snacks
  • altitude medication (consult your doctor).
    • We also offer gear rentals for items like sleeping bags and walking poles.
    How fit should I be for this trek?
    You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but a good level of cardiovascular fitness is essential. You should be comfortable hiking for 5–7 hours per day (and up to 12 hours on summit day) over varied terrain. Training with long hikes, stair climbing, and cardio workouts before your trip will help a lot.
    Will I get a summit certificate?
    Yes! If you reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro, you’ll receive a gold certificate. If you reach Stella Point, which is just before the summit, you'll receive a green certificate. Both are official and a proud memento of your achievement.
    How are meals on the mountain?
    You’ll be served hot, nutritious meals three times a day. Breakfasts often include porridge, eggs, toast, and fruit; lunches and dinners feature rice, pasta, stews, and vegetables. Fresh ingredients are carried up the mountain. Special diets—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.—can be accommodated with advance notice.
    What is the summit success rate for the 7 day Machame Route?
    The summit success rate for the 7-day Machame Route is approximately 85% to 90%, thanks to the better acclimatization built into the itinerary. This is significantly higher than the 6-day version and makes it one of the most successful and popular ways to climb Kilimanjaro.

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