7-day Machame Route

Classic journey to the roof of Africa

machame route: adventure awaits

The Machame Route is known for its challenging yet rewarding trails, diverse landscapes, and a climb high, sleep low approach — ideal for proper acclimatization while enjoying a scenic and adventurous path to Kilimanjaro’s summit.”With our personal intake and direct involvement of the head guide from the start, you approach this route well-prepared, confident and supported every step of the way.

Clim High, Sleep Low. Good Acclimatization

Steep ascent

7-Day Climb

Jan - Mar /Jun - Oct

Tents

Ascend with purpose, rest in comfort

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Pre-Climb Stay

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll receive a warm welcome from our team and be transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Later that day, you’ll meet your guide for a detailed climb briefing and gear check — the perfect moment to ask questions, review the plan ahead, and get to know the team supporting you on your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Day 2: Machame Gate - Machame Camp

Your Kilimanjaro journey begins at Machame Gate on the southwestern slopes of the mountain. After completing registration, you enter dense montane rainforest, trekking through lush greenery as you steadily gain altitude. Along the way, you may spot colobus monkeys and colorful birdlife. The trail can be muddy at times, especially after rainfall, before you arrive at Machame Camp in the afternoon.

Distance: 11 km
Habitat: Lush rainforest, humid and vibrant
Altitude: 1,780m – 2,835m
Camp: Machame Camp

Day 3: Machame Camp - Shira Camp

Leaving the rainforest behind, you ascend into the heath and moorland zone. The trail winds steeply along rocky ridges, offering spectacular views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru in the distance. As the terrain opens up and the air grows crisper, you arrive at Shira Camp, ready to rest and prepare for the next stage of your ascent.

Distance: 5 km
Habitat: Highland transition, mossy heather landscapes
Altitude: 2,835m – 3,505m
Camp: Shira Camp

Day 4: Shira Camp - Barranco Camp

Today is an important acclimatization day. You ascend to Lava Tower at around 4,630 m, pausing for lunch before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to the altitude. Along the way, the landscape transforms into alpine desert, with breathtaking views of the Western Breach and the dramatic Barranco Wall

Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Moorland plateau, scenic views
Altitude: 3,505m – 3,960m
Camp: Barranco Camp

Day 5: Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp

Your day begins with the climb of the famous Barranco Wall — a challenging yet rewarding scramble offering breathtaking views from the top. The trail then winds through the Karanga Valley, with gentle ups and downs, before arriving at Karanga Camp. This shorter day allows time to rest and continue acclimatizing for the summit push ahead.

Distance: 5 km
Habitat: Semi-alpine desert, rocky terrain
Altitude: 3,960m – 4,035m
Camp: Karanga Camp

Day 6: Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp

Your day begins with a steady climb from Karanga Camp, gradually gaining altitude through rocky, alpine terrain. The trail winds past unique high-altitude landscapes and sparse vegetation, giving you time to acclimatize while enjoying panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s southern slopes. You arrive at Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit attempt, with the afternoon free to rest and prepare for the challenging night ahead.

Distance: 4 km
Habitat: Alpine desert, rocky terrain
Altitude: 4,035m – 4,640m
Camp: Barafu Camp

Day 7: Barafu Camp - Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp

You begin just before midnight for the final push to the summit. Trekking steeply in the dark, you reach Stella Point on the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa — just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise. After enjoying the views and capturing photos, you descend back to Barafu Camp to rest, then continue down through moorland and rainforest, finally arriving at Mweka Camp.

Distance: 11 km
Habitat: Glacier landscape, descent into forest
Altitude: 4,640m – 5,895m – 3,100m
Camp: Mweka Camp

Day 8: Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate - Celebration - Post-Climb Stay

The final stretch takes you through lush rainforest as you descend to Mweka Gate. This last walk is often filled with joy and reflection — you have conquered Kilimanjaro! Upon arrival at the gate, you head to a nearby restaurant for a memorable celebration with the entire team, enjoying a delicious barbecue, cake, certificates, and singing together. Afterwards, you say farewell to your guides and crew and return to Arusha for well-deserved rest.

Route Info
Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Rainforest
Altitude: 3,100, – 1,640m
Camp: –

Day 9: Departure or Trip Extension

After breakfast, we’ll arrange your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. If you’re not ready to leave Tanzania just yet, this is the perfect opportunity to extend your adventure with a safari or a relaxing getaway to Zanzibar.

With Physical Preparation, your body is ready to take on the challenge. Acclimatization ensures you climb safely and comfortably, while Mental Preparation keeps you focused and positive. Together, we guide you step by step to make your Kilimanjaro summit an unforgettable achievement.

Benson, Head Guide

What's included & what not

Personal Consultation with our team & Head Guide
Airport Transfers
Accommodations Before & After Climb
Briefing & Summit Certificate
Park & Rescue Fees
All Government Taxes
All Meals & Safe Water During Climb
Camping or Hut Fees
Certified Guide & Expert Crew
Strict Health Monitoring
Tents, Sleeping Gear, Equipment
Fair Porter Wages
Additional Air Rescue Insurance

International & Domestic Flight
Visa & Travel Insurance
Peronal Hiking Gear & Clothing
Tips for Guides & Porters
Snacks & Personal Expenses
Please note: a 2.5 % administration fee applies to all bookings

price

2 Persons

4 Persons

6 Persons

8 Persons

10 Persons

2,500 USD

2,400 USD

2,350 USD

2,250 USD

2,200 USD

*The above prices are for reference only, final price confirmed upon booking

Words from our Guests

We absolutely loved our safari! We saw almost the Big Five—just one missing, so definitely a reason to come back. Huge compliments to our guides for their care, safety, and amazing explanations. Truly an experience worth repeating!

Incredible trip — National Geographic can’t compete! From hippos to flamingos, we saw so many animals. Lunch had a surprise visitor: a huge marabou stork! Ending the day in a unique Maasai house was unforgettable.

We had a fantastic Kilimanjaro climb, organized by Emmaventures. The crew we went with was very knowledgeable and made our trip a truly fantastic experience! Our guide, Benson, and chef Marimoto made sure we'll never forget these days.

Absolutely incredible experience with Emmaventure! Steve’s storytelling and humor made every moment unforgettable. Wilson’s wildlife knowledge helped us spot the Big Five and more. Clear communication and amazing team—highly recommended!

An amazing overnight trip to Lake Natron with Emmanuel! We hiked to a beautiful waterfall, spotted flamingos, watched the sunrise, visited a Maasai village and their market, and saw giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes along the way. Meals were well organized and Emmanuel shared so much knowledge. Highly recommended!

We had an amazing time in Tanzania. Emmanuel showed us the beauty of life there, and I learned so many valuable lessons. Thank you for making this journey so special—it was a pleasure to meet you, Emmanuel!