Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? The 7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climbing experience offers the perfect blend of challenge and awe-inspiring beauty. This comprehensive guide will take you through every aspect of this incredible journey.
What is the 7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climbing?
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you’ve probably heard about the Machame Route on Kilimanjaro. It’s one of the most sought-after routes to conquer the “Roof of Africa.” Here, we break down what makes the 7 Days Machame Route so special.
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its challenging nature, is famous for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. It’s a seven-day trek that takes you through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and a snow-capped summit. The route is known for its high success rate due to the gradual ascent, allowing trekkers to acclimatize effectively.
Highlights of the 7 Days Machame Route
- Lush Rainforests: The adventure begins in the vibrant rainforest, where you’ll witness unique flora and fauna.
- Shira Plateau: As you ascend, you’ll reach Shira Plateau, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
- Barranco Wall: A thrilling rock scramble that adds an exciting element to your journey.
- Stella Point: The penultimate stop before reaching the summit.
- Uhuru Peak: The ultimate prize and the highest point in Africa.
Preparing for Your Kilimanjaro Adventure
The Right Gear
When climbing Kilimanjaro, having the right gear is crucial. Make sure you have:
- Layered Clothing: Prepare for varying temperatures by wearing layers.
- Quality Footwear: Invest in sturdy, comfortable hiking boots.
- Sleeping Bag: Choose one suitable for sub-zero temperatures.
Physical Fitness
The 7 Days Machame Route is challenging. Regular cardio workouts and strength training will help you prepare. Consider altitude training if possible.
Permits and Guides
You need a permit to climb Kilimanjaro, and it’s highly recommended to hire an experienced guide. This ensures your safety and enhances your experience. Read what other people say about Safari Nuggets on TripAdvisor.
7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climbing: Day by Day
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with your arrival in Moshi, a bustling town in Tanzania. You’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can rest and prepare for the climb. It’s essential to spend this time acclimatizing to the altitude.
Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
The drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate takes about 50 minutes. The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. As we leave the park gate, we walk through the dense rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge until we reach the Machame Camp.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
We leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path up to a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization..
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization..
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
Day 9: Departure – Kilimanjaro International Airport
After a good night’s rest at your hotel, you will take breakfast ready for the scheduled check-out by 10.00hrs.(If you wish to remain in the hotel during the day, please advise us of this when you book your trip and we will inform you of the cost for a ‘day room’ which allows you to stay until 18:00hrs, and then make the booking on your behalf.)
As the transfer services have been already included in this package, you will be collected from your hotel and dropped off at the airport.
When planning your Kilimanjaro expedition, it is essential to establish a clear budget in advance and take into account additional expenses such as tips for guides and concierge staff.
Safari Nuggets is a reputable local tour operator that helps you plan a safe and successful climb with a successful summit rate of over 95%.
What is the price for Kilimanjaro Climbing on 7 Day Machame Route?
Below is a 2024 price list for the Kilimanjaro 7 Day Machame route against the group size of climbers. Look for your expected group size and the price, then make a booking for your upcoming adventure with Safari Nuggets.
|
7 Days Machame Route Prices Per Person |
|
|
Number of Climbers |
Cost per Climber |
|
1 |
$2815 |
|
2 |
$2328 |
|
3 |
$2249 |
|
4 |
$2168 |
|
5 |
$2128 |
|
6 |
$2113 |
|
7 |
$2104 |
|
8 |
$2110 |
|
9 |
$2102 |
|
10+ |
$2087 |
The Trekking Package Price Includes:
- Airport pick up and drop off – Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) – Moshi
- 2 Hotel nights accommodation in Moshi (one night before the trek and the night after the trek)
- All park fees for the national park including taxes
- All meals and unlimited drinking water while on the mountain
- Private toilet tent included (1 toilet for every 7 climbers)
- All salaries for guides, assistant guides, chef, porters
- Transport to and from the park gate
- Oxygen for altitude sickness emergencies
- All camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs, cooking equipment, dining tent, sleeping mattress — but not sleeping bag)
The Trekking Package Price Excludes:
- Extra JRO airport pickups and drop offs ($40 per car)
- Sleeping bag – please bring your own or rent one from our equipment rental shop
- International flights & visas
- Travel Insurance
- Mountain climb staff tips
- Alcoholic drinks
- Personal travel and baggage
- Telephone/internet bill
- Laundry service
- Any personal items
- Activities not mentioned in the program
Note: For private groups with an even number of participants, the price is based on double occupancy in the hotel in Moshi and in the tents on the mountain. Private rooms/tents are available at an added price. For odd numbered participants, the price for one single hotel room and tent is already factored into the quoted price. Our default policy is to divide the entire price evenly. If you prefer, we can calculate a separate price for those with double occupancy and the person with single occupancy.
Booking Your Kilimanjaro Climb
You can book your 2024 Kilimanjaro climb by filling this form and submit your request. Our tour consultant will get back to you shortly with a quote proposal for your climb. Also see what other customers say about Safari Nuggets on TripAdvisor. Read our Kilimanjaro FAQs and Kilimanjaro Packing List.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
A: The best time is during the dry seasons, either from January to March or June to October.
Q: How cold does it get at the summit?
A: Temperatures can drop well below freezing at Uhuru Peak, so dress warmly.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern?
A: Yes, it’s a possibility. Proper acclimatization is key to avoid it.
Q: Can I climb Kilimanjaro without a guide?
A: It’s not recommended. Guides ensure your safety and enhance your experience.
Q: How can I book a permit for Kilimanjaro?
A: You can book your permit through the Tanzanian National Parks Authority or use a reputable tour operator. Read what other people say about Safari Nuggets on TripAdvisor.
Q: What should I pack for the trek?
A: Pack essentials like clothing, hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and personal items. Your tour operator will provide a detailed list.
