This 7 days Kilimanjaro climb on the Machame route is the best tour to summit Mount Kilimanjaro at 5895 meters, the highest free-standing mountain in the world and one of the seven summits of the world. The 7-day Machame route for hiking Kilimanjaro requires 19–24 hours of demanding walking at an extremely high elevation of 19,341 feet, with only 5-7 hours of sleep in 2024 and 2025.
Each day on the 7-day Machame route brings its own set of challenges and rewards, making it a well-balanced and immersive experience for climbers. From the Barranco Wall's thrilling scramble to the serene Barranco Camp, trekkers witness the landscape transforming beneath their feet. The route's gradual acclimatization strategy enhances the chances of a successful summit bid, and the seven-day itinerary provides ample time for participants to adjust to the altitude. The Machame route is not only a test of physical endurance but also a spiritual and mental journey, offering a profound connection to the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro and a sense of achievement as climbers stand triumphantly on the "Roof of Africa.
Elevation: 1,830 m to 3,100 m; distance: 11 km; hiking time: 5-7 hours; habitat: montane forest
Start your Kilimanjaro hiking trip from Machame Gate and enter the enchanting rainforest. Trek amidst lush greenery, witnessing unique flora and fauna along the way, then hike into Machame Camp.
Elevation: 3,100 m to 3,840 m; hiking time: 4-6 hours; distance: 9 km; habitat: Moorland
After an early breakfast at the Machame camp, you will continue hiking, crossing an attractive valley along a narrow hilltop. You will continue to Shira Camp, where you will have dinner, rest, and an overnight stay.
Elevation: 3,840 m to 4,000 m; distance: 15 km; hiking time: 5-7 hours; habitat: semi-desert
After breakfast at Shira Camp in the morning, continue hiking through gentle slopes with related views to sunny Lava Tower, where you will take your lunch. Continue to descend to Barranco Camp Valley, where you will have dinner and overnight.
Distance: 6 km; hiking time: 3–4 hours; habitat: Moorland
Traverse through scenic valleys and ridges, enjoying spectacular views of the southern ice fields. Reach Karanga Camp, situated amidst stunning alpine desert landscapes, and take in the awe-inspiring surroundings and prepare for the next day's ascent.
Distance: 4 km; hiking time: 3–4 hours; habitat: Alpine Desert
Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will continue hiking and leave Karanga Camp via scree with a wide view and attractive dry landscape to Barafu Camp. At Barafu Camp, you will eat dinner and rest while preparing your body with all the necessary equipment for the summit.
Elevation: 4700 m to 5895 m, with a descent to 3090 m; hiking time: 5-7 hours up and 5-6 hours down; distance: 6 km up and 13 km down; habitat: stone scree and ice-capped summit.
The day of triumph arrives as you embark on the final ascent to the summit. Leave Barafu Camp in the midnight hours and make your way towards Uhuru Peak. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the African landscape and savor the surreal feeling of standing atop the "Roof of Africa." Descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Distance: 10 km; habitat: forest; hiking time: 3–4 hours
After an early breakfast, you will continue descending to Mweka Gate, where you can receive your summiting certificate. Then you will be transported from Mweka Gate to the best hotel in Moshi Town or Arusha to celebrate your win to reach the top of the roof of Africa, enjoying meals, resting, and staying overnight. The next day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport to return to your home country.
Book this 7-day Machame route Kilimanjaro climbing tour
