Join African Giant Adventures for the ultimate Mount Kilimanjaro trekking experience via the scenic Machame Route – often called the “Whiskey Route” for its rich landscapes and moderate difficulty. This 7 days climb is designed for adventurous and physically prepared trekkers seeking a well-paced ascent with time for acclimatization.
Your journey begins in Arusha, a gateway city near Kilimanjaro, and includes two hotel nights before and after the climb. Along the way, you’ll pass through five ecological zones — from lush rainforest to arctic summit—and camp in scenic spots each night under the stars. All treks are supported by professional guides, chefs, and porters to ensure your safety and comfort.
From $2,895 – $3,495 USD per person
Duration: 9 Days (7 days trekking + 2 nights in Arusha)
Route: Machame Route (Whiskey Route)
Start/End Point: Arusha City, Tanzania
✨ Perfect for solo travelers, small groups, and anyone preparing for a Tanzania wildlife safari after the climb.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Transfer to Hotel
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha for relaxation. In the evening, meet your guide for a detailed trek briefing and gear check.
Overnight: Venus Premier Hotel (or similar, mid-range)
Meals: None
Day 2: Arusha – Machame Gate (1,830m) – Machame Camp (3,050m)
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate (approx. 2.5 hours from Arusha). Begin your trek through the lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and vibrant flora.
Distance: 11 km
Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: Montane Forest
Overnight: Machame Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,850m)
Trek out of the rainforest into open moorlands with panoramic views of Shira Plateau and Mount Meru in the distance.
Distance: 5 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Zone: Moorland
Overnight: Shira Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,976m)
Ascend to Lava Tower, an important acclimatization point, then descend to the beautiful Barranco Valley, below the imposing Barranco Wall.
Distance: 10 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,050m)
Climb the Barranco Wall and trek across glacial valleys. Enjoy sweeping views and arrive early to Karanga Camp for rest and acclimatization.
Distance: 6 km
Time: 4 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
Overnight: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,700m)
Today is a short but steep climb to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. Prepare and rest early for the midnight push to the summit.
Distance: 4 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Begin at midnight with a challenging ascent to Stella Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After sunrise photos, descend to Mweka Camp.
Distance: 5 km up / 13 km down
Time: 12–15 hours
Zone: Arctic to Rainforest
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha
Trek through the rainforest to Mweka Gate where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Return to Arusha for a hot shower and celebration dinner.
Distance: 10 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Venus Premier Hotel, Arusha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Departure or Safari Add-On
Enjoy breakfast and a relaxed morning before airport transfer or an optional wildlife safari extension to Serengeti, Tarangire, or Ngorongoro.
Meals: Breakfast
Group Size | Mid-Range Price |
---|---|
6+ people | $2,895 USD |
4–5 people | $2,995 USD |
2–3 people | $3,495 USD |
Private & Customizable departures available
🗓️ Valid through December 31, 2025
What’s Included | What’s Not Included |
---|---|
2 nights hotel in Arusha (before & after trek) | International & domestic flights |
Airport pickup & drop-off (JRO) | Tanzania visa ($50 USD for most travelers) |
Transport from Arusha to Machame Gate & return | Travel & medical insurance (required) |
All Kilimanjaro park, camping & rescue fees | Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, boots, etc.) |
Professional mountain guides, porters & cooks | Tipping for crew ($400–$700 recommended) |
All meals on the mountain (3 hot meals daily) | Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks |
Private mess tent, table, chairs, utensils | Optional portable toilet (extra charge) |
4-season mountain tents (shared use) | Hotel/tent single supplement (on request) |
Treated & filtered drinking water | Extra hotel nights or optional safari |
First aid kit, emergency oxygen, daily health checks | Personal expenses (snacks, laundry, souvenirs) |
Summit certificate (Uhuru Peak) |
With years of experience in East African tourism, our guides are well-versed in local culture, wildlife, and hidden gems.
Design your own safari and beach itinerary: see examples from our experts for inspiration.
Honeymoons, family holidays, walking and cultural safari, diving, trekking... there's plenty to keep you busy.
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