7 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE CLIMBING
(+ 2 days in a hotel)
7 Days Machame Route is a great way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy amazing views. This route gives you more time to adjust to the altitude, making it easier to reach the summit. During the 7 Days Machame Route, you will pass through forests, moorlands, and rocky paths. Our team provides professional guides, tasty meals, safe camping equipment, and full support to make your journey fun and successful. Choose the 7 Days Machame Route for the best climbing experience on Kilimanjaro.
Itinerary summary
- Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania
- Day 2: Machame Gate (1790m) to Machame Camp (3010m)
- Day 3: Machame Camp (3010m) to Shira Camp (3845m)
- Day 4: Shira Cave (3845m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
- Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
- Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
- Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
- Day 8: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
- Day 9: Depart Tanzania

Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania
You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town; you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented on this day.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2: Machame Gate (1790m) to Machame Camp (3010m)
One hour’s drive from Moshi to Machame gate, where we complete park formalities, meet our crew of porters and start to climb! The first section of the route climbs steadily and passes through magnificent, dense rainforest. This path is less well-trodden so it can get somewhat overgrown in places and it is often wet and muddy underfoot.
- Distance covered: 10.8km / 6.7mi
- Approx. time taken: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Machame Camp (3010m) to Shira Camp (3845m)
Our route continues on up through the forest until we reach the steep ascent onto the Shira Plateau, where there are rewarding views of the mountain. Looking back, you will be able to see Mt Meru rising high above Arusha town in the distance.
- Distance covered: 5.4km / 3.4mi
- Approx. time taken: 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Shira Cave (3845m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
Walking now on high moorland, the landscape changes the entire character of the trek. We traverse the southwest side of Kilimanjaro, passing underneath the Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach and finally reach camp The day has been spent at altitude (up to 4600m), but we have followed the mountaineering code of ‘walk high, sleep low’ to aid your body’s acclimatization to altitude.
- Distance covered: 10.8km / 6.7mi
- Approx. time taken: 8 hrs
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
Our day starts by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. We then exit steeply, up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It’s a climb over rock, not technical but long and tiring. Passing underneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards the Karanga valley. From here we have a steep climb up from Karanga valley to our night’s camp at Karanga camp, set at 3963m. For those feeling strong we will go for a mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to around 4200m before descending back to camp for the night.
- Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi
- Approx. time taken: 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
After a good night’s rest and breakfast, we set off on our walk to Barafu camp at 4640m. The climb will take us across desolate scree slopes with no vegetation around us at all. It’s a tough steep walk made more difficult by the altitude. On arriving at camp we eat and spend the afternoon resting as we prepare for a long night and day ahead. It is important to keep hydrated and warm. We have an early dinner and then try to get some sleep as we will be getting up at between 11pm and 12pm to start the climb to the summit.
- Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi
- Approx. time taken: 3 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
We start off at around midnight, and walk steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. We will be climbing scree for 4 to 5 hours but gain incredible height over a short distance. The views are spectacular. We should be on the crater rim at Stella Point (5739m) as the first rays of the sun hit us. Spectacular ice cliffs within the crater surround us and the views to jagged Mawenzi peak and beyond are breathtaking. Another hour’s walking takes us to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). We begin our descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on scree slope and track back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, before finally heading down to Millennium Camp for a long well-earned rest.
- Distance covered: 13.4km / 8.3mi
- Approx. time taken: 12 – 15 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 8: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
A gentle trek takes us down through the rain forest to Mweka Gate, where we complete park formalities and receive certificates, which you can hang up with pride! We are then met by our vehicles and return to the hotel in Moshi, where you can treat yourself to a welcome hot shower.
- Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi
- Approx. time taken: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 9: Departure Tanzania
Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.
Hotels check out is 11:00am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee
PRICE FOR 7 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE CLIMBING
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
1 Person | 2 – 4 People | 5 – 6 People | 7 – 9 People | 10 & Above |
---|---|---|---|---|
$2,392 USD | $1,800 USD | $1,750 USD | $1,680 USD | $1,650 USD |
7 Days Machame Route – Cost Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’re paying for on the 7 Days Machame Route with Bush Lion Trekking and Tours:
Expense | Cost ($) | Details |
---|---|---|
Kilimanjaro Park Fees + Tax | $970.76 | Includes entrance, camping, and rescue fees (mandatory). |
2 Nights Hotel in Moshi | $140.00 | Stay at Panama Garden Resort ($70 per night, includes breakfast). |
Airport Transfers | $80.00 | Pick-up and drop-off from Kilimanjaro Airport. |
Transport to Kilimanjaro Gate | $80.00 | Roundtrip transport from your hotel to the Machame Gate. |
Food on the Mountain | $192.5 | Nutritious and freshly prepared meals during the climb. |
Salaries for 6 Crew Members | $460.00 | Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooks. |
Climbing Gear & Support | Included | Tents, sleeping bags, mats, and safety equipment. |
Total Cost Per Person | $1,923.26 | *Excludes tips , personal gear, and Travel Insurance ( Covers evacuation, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations).* |
Why Choose Bush Lion Trekking and Tours?
- Transparent Pricing: Every cost is explained upfront, so you know exactly where your money goes.
- Fair Treatment: We ensure ethical practices and fair pay for all crew members.
- High Safety Standards: Our team is trained to prioritize your health and safety at every step.
- Unforgettable Experience: With well-trained guides, excellent food, and top-notch equipment, we ensure a memorable climb.
Why Avoid Cheap Companies for Kilimanjaro Climbing?
Choosing a cheap company may seem like a way to save money, but it can lead to significant risks and a poor experience. Many low-cost operators cut corners on essential services, such as:
- Underpaid Staff: Guides, porters, and cooks often receive unfair wages.
- Low-Quality Gear: Old or unsafe equipment can compromise your safety and comfort.
- Poor Food Quality: Meals may lack proper nutrition for a challenging climb.
- Hidden Costs: You might face unexpected charges that weren’t disclosed initially.
- Lack of Safety Measures: Budget operators often skip providing oxygen tanks, pulse oximeters, or proper medical support.
With Bush Lion Trekking and Tours, we focus on transparency, fair treatment of our crew, and providing high-quality services. Our prices reflect the true cost of a safe and enjoyable Kilimanjaro experience.
Included
- Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Moshi.
- 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi (BB) Panama Garden Resort/Parkview inn hotel
- Pre-Climb Briefing And Orientation
- Park Fees And Permits
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate Park entry fees,
- Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
- Double layered Sleeping Mats 4 inches (10cm) thick
- 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
- Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Hot water for washing
- 4 Season Mountain Tents
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Safety Equipment (Like Oxygen Tanks, First Aid Kits, Etc.)
- Portable Flush Toilet with a toilet tent
- Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Not Included
- Lunches, dinners and drinks at your hotel before and after climb.
- Travel Insurance (Medical, Evacuation, Trip Cancellation, Etc.)
- Personal Gear (Such As Hiking Boots, Clothing, Backpacks, Etc.)
- Tips For Guides, Porters, And Other Staff
- Additional Accommodation And Meals Before Or After The Climb
- Alcoholic Beverages And Other Personal Expenses
- Laundry (Available at hotel).
Payment Terms
Deposit Payment
- Deposit is $100 of the total booking amount.
- Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
- We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
- Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
- Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
- Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
- Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
- Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).
Cancellation Policy
8 days and above departure
- No cancellation fees.
0 to 7 days before departure
- 50% of the total tour price will be charged as cancellation fees.
- The 5% surcharge paid for either or both advance and balance payments is non-refundable in case of cancellation of the trek.
What They Say About Us
EXCELLENT Based on 61 reviews Hellen M2025-06-11Verified Amazing Lifetime Experience in Tanzania I had the most unforgettable adventure with the 8 days Lemosho Route climb and 4 days Tanzania wildlife safari. Everything was perfectly organized from the first day to the last.Our Kilimanjaro climb was incredible! The Lemosho Route was beautiful, quiet, and full of amazing views. The guides were very professional, friendly, and always made sure we were safe and happy. They checked our health every day and encouraged us until we reached the top! The porters and cook were also amazing – the food was tasty and gave us energy every day.After the climb, we went on a 4-day safari to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater. We saw so many animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and even a leopard! Our safari guide was very knowledgeable and knew the best spots for wildlife. The lodges and camping sites were clean, comfortable, and had great food.This trip was a dream come true. Thank you to the whole team for making it special. I highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants to climb Kilimanjaro and enjoy a real African safari! Brigita A2025-06-06Verified 7 Days Machame Route Experience We had a great time climbing Kilimanjaro via the 7 Days Machame Route. The guides were kind, helpful, and very professional. The food was delicious and we felt safe and supported the whole way. Every day was different and beautiful. Reaching the summit was the best feeling ever. I highly recommend this company for anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro. Omega R2025-05-22Verified Amazing 7 Days Machame Route Experience with Bush Lion Tours My 7-day Machame Route climb with Bush Lion Tours was absolutely amazing! From the beginning, everything was perfectly organized. Jackson helped us plan the trip and made sure we had all the details we needed. The guides were very professional, friendly, and patient. They made sure we were safe and comfortable throughout the climb.The views along the route were breathtaking, and the support from the team made it possible to reach the summit. The food was delicious, and the porters worked so hard to ensure we had everything we needed. I felt supported every step of the way.I highly recommend Bush Lion Tours to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro. They provided excellent service and made our adventure unforgettable. Thank you, Jackson, and the entire team for such a great experience! Joseph K2025-05-21Verified 8Days Lemosho Route Changed My Life The 8 Days Lemosho Route was the best adventure of my life. The guides were kind, professional, and very supportive. The food was delicious, and the porters were amazing—always smiling and helpful. Every day brought new views and great memories. Reaching Uhuru Peak was a dream come true. I truly recommend this route for anyone who wants a safe and beautiful climb.Thank you, Bush Lion Trekking and Tours, for the incredible experience! Swabra O2025-04-25Verified Kilimanjaro & Safari magic We were a group of 4 friends and had the most amazing trip with this company! First, we did the 8 Days Lemosho Route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It was challenging, but so beautiful and well-organized. The guides and porters were friendly, patient, and always took care of us. Reaching the summit together was the best moment of our lives!After the climb, we went on a 5 Days Tanzania Safari and wow! We saw the Big Five, watched the sunset in the Serengeti, and enjoyed every minute. The lodges were clean and comfortable, and the food was delicious. Our safari guide made the trip even better with his knowledge and fun personality.Thank you so much for giving us memories that we’ll keep forever. We highly recommend this to anyone looking for a true African adventure! Hawa M2025-04-13Verified A safari to Remember Forever I had the most incredible experience on the Serengeti Migration Safari. From the moment the journey began, everything was thoughtfully arranged and professionally handled. The staff were warm, knowledgeable, and always attentive to our comfort and safety.The 4x4 safari vehicle was spacious, clean, and perfectly suited for game drives — with large windows and a pop-up roof that made animal viewing effortless and exciting. We were lucky to witness thousands of wildebeest crossing the plains, a truly breathtaking moment that I’ll never forget.Our guide was not only friendly but also deeply knowledgeable about wildlife behavior, the ecosystem, and the Great Migration. He shared fascinating insights that made the trip educational as well as inspiring.The accommodations were clean and comfortable, and the meals exceeded expectations — fresh, delicious, and served with genuine hospitality.This was more than just a trip; it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connected me to nature in the most beautiful way. Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience Africa’s magic in a safe and professional setting. Tumpe K2025-04-10Verified A Journey of love and Altitude As a couple, climbing Kilimanjaro together was a personal dream, and Bush Lion Tours made that dream feel safe, exciting, and deeply meaningful. We took the 7-day Machame Route, and every single day brought us closer not just to the summit, but to each other. The trail challenged us in new ways, but the support from the team made it feel possible. Our guide was patient and kind, always checking on us and explaining what to expect each day. The gear provided; tents, sleeping bags, mats was clean, warm, and reliable, even on the coldest nights.What made the experience so special was the energy of the whole team. The porters, cook, and guides felt like family. They cheered us on, made us laugh, and even surprised us with a celebration song after reaching the summit. We’ll never forget sharing tea at Shira Camp under the stars, or watching the sunrise hand in hand at Uhuru Peak. It wasn’t just about climbing a mountain it was about sharing something powerful and emotional. Thank you, Bush Lion Tours, for making this journey the highlight of our lives. Magreth G2025-04-07Verified A Family Adventure to the Top of Kilimanjaro We traveled as a family with Bush Lion Tours on the Machame route, and it was an adventure we'll always cherish. Jackson and his team ensured that the climb was safe and enjoyable for everyone, including our kids. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely patient with us. They made sure we took breaks when needed and even shared stories about the mountain’s history. The whole experience exceeded our expectations, and we will forever be grateful for Jackson’s leadership and the amazing service. Janny G2025-04-06Verified Fantastic Lemosho Route Climb Bush Lion Tours made my Kilimanjaro dream come true! The Lemosho Route was quiet, scenic, and full of adventure. Great food, friendly porters, and expert guides. 10/10! Caroline S2025-04-02Verified Amazing Experience with Bush Lion Tours We had an incredible time with Bush Lion Tours! Jackson was very helpful from the start, and he organized everything perfectly for us. He made sure we had all the details in place, and his communication was always clear and fast.The whole experience, from the 7-day Machame route trek to the 4-day safari, was unforgettable. The team was so friendly and professional. They took care of everything, ensuring we were always safe, comfortable, and well-informed. The guides were amazing, always there to support us and share their knowledge. Thanks to them, we felt confident and enjoyed every moment of our adventure.We highly recommend Bush Lion Tours! Jackson and his team made this trip unforgettable, and we are so grateful for their excellent service. If you're looking for a well-organized and memorable trip, don’t hesitate to book with them!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more