7-Day Machame Route – The “Whiskey Route” Overview

The Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular routes to the Roof of Africa. It offers diverse landscapes, excellent acclimatization opportunities, and a high success rate.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha/Moshi

• Pick up from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel.
• Meet your mountain guide for a pre-climb briefing and gear check.
• Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Machame Gate (1,800m) → Machame Camp (3,000m)

 Hiking Time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 11 km |  Habitat: Rainforest

• Depart from the hotel and drive to Machame Gate for registration.
• Begin trekking through lush rainforests with towering trees, moss-covered rocks, and wildlife.
• Arrive at Machame Camp, where dinner and rest await.

Day 3: Machame Camp (3,000m) → Shira Camp (3,840m)

 Hiking Time: 4-6 hours | Distance: 5 km |  Habitat: Moorland

• Leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone, with stunning views of Kibo Peak.
• A steady ascent along rocky ridges leads to Shira Plateau, a volcanic caldera.
• Overnight at Shira Camp, enjoying breathtaking sunset views.

Day 4: Shira Camp (3,840m) → Lava Tower (4,630m) → Barranco Camp (3,950m)

 Hiking Time: 6-8 hours | Distance: 10 km |  Habitat: Alpine Desert

• A crucial acclimatization day – “climb high, sleep low.”
• Trek to the Lava Tower (4,630m), where altitude effects may be felt.
• Descend to Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the iconic Barranco Wall.

Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,950m) → Karanga Camp (4,035m) → Barafu Camp (4,673m)

 Hiking Time: 7-9 hours | Distance: 9 km |  Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Start with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall (a non-technical but thrilling scramble).
• Trek through valleys and ridges, reaching Karanga Camp for a short break.
• Continue to Barafu Camp, the summit base camp.
• Early dinner and rest before the midnight summit attempt.

Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp (4,673m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)

 Hiking Time: 12-16 hours | Distance: 17 km |  Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

• Start around midnight, climbing steep scree slopes in the cold.
• Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at sunrise, then trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Africa’s highest point! 
• Take photos and soak in the incredible views before descending.
• Descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Arusha/Moshi

 Hiking Time: 3-5 hours | Distance: 10 km |  Habitat: Rainforest

• A gentle final descent through the rainforest.
• Receive a summit certificate at Mweka Gate.
• Drive back to Arusha/Moshi for celebration, relaxation, and an optional safari.

Why Choose the 7-Day Machame Route?

 High Success Rate – Excellent acclimatization profile

 Stunning Scenery – Diverse landscapes from rainforest to glaciers

 Adventure & Challenge – Iconic Barranco Wall & summit night experience

 Best for Acclimatization – Extra time to adjust to altitude