7 Days Machame Route | Safari Package | SerengetiNexus
A 7-day hiking adventure from $3,122
Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) via the Machame Route, known as the “Whiskey Route,” with Serengeti Nexus. This 7-day private trek offers diverse landscapes from lush rainforests to the Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and snow-capped Uhuru Peak, with excellent acclimatization via the “walk high, sleep low” profile. Approaching from the southwest, expect stunning vistas of the Western Breach and glacial icefalls, premium camping, and expert guidance. This eco-conscious adventure supports local communities, making it ideal for adventurous climbers seeking challenge and beauty.
Safari Route Map
Explore your journey through Tanzania's wilderness
Explore the detailed day-by-day itinerary
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and enjoy a private transfer to Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha (50 km, 1 hour). Meet your Kilisherpas representative for a comprehensive pre-climb briefing, covering the Machame Route, safety protocols, and gear requirements. Rest and prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure in the comfort of your hotel.
Accommodation
Gold Crest Hotel
After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate (1.5-2 hours) for registration. Begin your ascent through a lush rainforest rich with moss and birdlife, trekking 11 km (7 miles) in 7 hours to Machame Camp (3,000m). Settle into high-quality tents, surrounded by forest tranquility, and enjoy a full-board meal.
Accommodation
Machame Camp
Leave the rainforest behind and trek across a small valley, ascending a steep, heather-covered rocky ridge for 5 km (3 miles) in 6 hours. Turn west into a river gorge to reach Shira Cave Camp (3,850m) on the scenic Shira Plateau. Bundle up for colder temperatures below freezing and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in tents with expansive views.
Accommodation
Shira Cave Camp
Climb to the base of Lava Tower (4,600m) for lunch and acclimatization, then descend ~650m following the “walk high, sleep low” principle to Barranco Camp (3,950m) over 10 km in 8 hours. Capture stunning photo opportunities of the Barranco Wall and Western Breach, then relax with dinner and an overnight stay in tents.
Accommodation
Barranco Camp
Start with a fun scramble up the Great Barranco Wall, then traverse scree slopes for 4 km (2 miles) in 4 hours to Karanga Valley (4,210m), beneath the icefalls of Heim, Kersten, and Decken Glaciers. This short day aids acclimatization with spectacular views, followed by dinner and an overnight stay in tents.
Accommodation
Karanga Camp
Trek 4 km (2 miles) in 4 hours from Karanga Camp to the junction with the Mweka descent trail, then ascend to Barafu Camp (4,675m). Enjoy incredible views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, rest after dinner, and prepare for the summit push. Consider the optional Kosovo Camp upgrade ($100) for a 98% summit success rate, staying overnight in tents.
Accommodation
Barafu Camp
Wake at 11:30 PM for tea and biscuits, then begin the midnight summit ascent through heavy scree between Rebman and Ratzel Glaciers to Stella Point (5,732m), the most challenging section, over 6-8 hours. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) for a sunrise view (weather permitting), photograph the summit, then descend to Barafu Camp for lunch (2-3 hours) and continue to Mweka Camp (3,100m, 3-4 hours) for dinner and a well-earned sleep in tents.
Accommodation
Mweka Camp
After breakfast, descend 1,300m through rainforest for 10 km (6 miles) in 4 hours to Mweka Gate. Collect your Kilimanjaro National Park summit certificate at Park Headquarters, then transfer to Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha for a shower and celebration.
Accommodation
Gold Crest Hotel
Enjoy breakfast and a private transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO, 50 km, 1 hour) for your onward journey or connect with a Serengeti Nexus safari or Zanzibar trip if arranged.
What's included
Complimentary meet and greet at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Private transfers between JRO and hotel, and hotel to Lemosho Gate/Mweka Gate
2 nights’ accommodation at Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha (pre- and post-climb)
Kilimanjaro National Park gate fees, camping fees, and climbing permits
Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Rescue Team)
Qualified chief guide, assistant guides, porters, and cook
Salaries for mountain crew per KINAPA guidelines
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner, hot drinks)
3 liters of mineral water (Day 1) and 3 liters of purified water daily (from Day 2)
Hot lunch at lunch stops with tables, chairs, and mess tent (except Day 1, packed lunch)
Superior camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, camp chairs, tables, mess tent)
Emergency oxygen and pulse oximeter for twice-daily health checks
Water for daily washing
Kilimanjaro National Park certificate for successful summit attempt
Porter to carry duffel bag (max 15kg/32 lbs) between camps
Airport transfers.
Flights and airport taxes
Entry visa for Tanzania ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for USA passport holders)
Vaccinations (yellow fever if traveling via an infected country; Meningitis, Hepatitis A optional)
Personal items (souvenirs, additional snacks).
Compulsory tips for guides, porters, cooks ($250-$350 per hiker, varies by group size/route)
Trekking gear
Private portable toilet ($150 extra per group)
Optional Kosovo Camp stay at Barafu ($100 extra, 98% summit success rate)
Optional live tracking service (additional cost, subject to availability)
Meals and drinks not specified
Pricing
Mid Season - the rest of the year
Price per person
| Solo | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | 4 PAX | 5 PAX | 6+ PAX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7-day | $3,122 | $3,122 | $3,122 | $3,122 | $3,122 | $3,122 |
Group Discount: The more travelers, the lower the price per person. Perfect for families and groups!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this 7-day hiking adventure
This package includes: Complimentary meet and greet at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Private transfers between JRO and hotel, and hotel to Lemosho Gate/Mweka Gate, 2 nights’ accommodation at Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha (pre- and post-climb) All transportation, expert guides, and most activities are included in the price.
The best time for hiking in Kilimanjaro National Park is during the dry season (June to October) when animals gather around water sources. However, this 7-day adventure is available year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
This is a private adventure that can accommodate 1-6 travelers. The price per person decreases with more travelers, making it perfect for families and groups.
Essential items include: comfortable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera with extra batteries, binoculars, and a light jacket for early mornings. We provide a detailed packing list upon booking confirmation.
Cancellation policies vary by season and timing. Generally, cancellations made 30+ days before departure receive a full refund minus processing fees. Please contact us for specific cancellation terms for your travel dates.
