7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a great balance between challenge and acclimatization, making it a preferred choice for climbers seeking a shorter trek with a good success rate.
The cost of a 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route climb on Mount Kilimanjaro for the 2025-2026 season varies depending on the tour operator, services included, and group size. Prices typically range from approximately $1,550 – $1,900 per person.
For instance, Eddy Tours and Safaris offers 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route packages starting from $1,550 – $1,900.
When selecting a tour operator, it’s essential to consider what is included in the package. Lower-priced options may offer basic services, while higher-priced packages often include additional amenities such as pre- and post-climb accommodations, meals, transportation, and more experienced guides.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s advisable to research multiple operators, read reviews, and inquire about the specifics of each package. This approach will help you find a climb that fits both your budget and expectations for the 2025-2026 season.
Price Range for 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route (2025-2026)
Budget options: $1,550 – $1,900 per person
Mid-range options: $2,000 – $2,300 per person
Luxury options: $2,400 – $2,600+ per person
Pricing depends on the tour operator, group size, and included services such as accommodation, meals, and professional guides.
7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Elevation: 1,800m (5,906ft) → 3,000m (9,840ft)
Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Your journey starts with a drive to Machame Gate, where you will register and meet your guides and porters. The trek begins in the lush rainforest, with towering trees and wildlife such as colobus monkeys. After several hours of gradual ascent, you reach Machame Camp, where you will have dinner and spend the night.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp, 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route
Elevation: 3,000m (9,840ft) → 3,840m (12,600ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
You leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone, where the landscape becomes more open and rocky. As you climb higher, you will see spectacular views of Kibo Peak. The hike to Shira Camp is shorter but steeper, and the night will be colder than the previous one.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,840m (12,600ft) → 4,630m (15,190ft) → 3,950m (12,960ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
This is a key acclimatization day. You will ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), where you will have lunch and spend time at high altitude before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude. The Great Barranco Valley offers amazing views of the Breach Wall and giant senecio plants.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp , 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route
Elevation: 3,950m (12,960ft) → 4,035m (13,267ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
This day begins with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep climb that provides incredible views. The trail then continues through short ascents and descents to Karanga Camp. This is another important acclimatization stop before the final ascent.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route
Elevation: 4,035m (13,267ft) → 4,673m (15,331ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
A steep, rocky trek through the barren alpine desert leads to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The name “Barafu” means ice in Swahili, reflecting the cold conditions. After an early dinner, you will sleep early to prepare for the midnight ascent.
Day 6: Summit Attempt (Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak) & Descend to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,673m (15,331ft) → 5,895m (19,341ft) → 3,080m (10,100ft)
Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic zone (summit), then moorland
At midnight, you begin the most challenging part of the climb. The steep ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is slow and exhausting, but witnessing the sunrise from Stella Point (5,756m) is unforgettable. After celebrating at the Roof of Africa, you descend to Mweka Camp, passing back through the moorland.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route
Elevation: 3,080m (10,100ft) → 1,640m (5,380ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
The final day is a descent through the rainforest, where the air is rich in oxygen again. At Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificate before returning to your hotel for a well-earned celebration and rest.
Why Choose the 7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route?
✔ Extra acclimatization day for better summit success
✔ One of the most scenic routes on Kilimanjaro
✔ Higher success rate than the 6-day route
✔ Diverse landscapes from rainforest to glaciers
Would you like help choosing a tour operator, or do you need more tips for preparation?
7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route Includes:
Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
Airport Transfers
Meals according to the itinerary
Drinking water and Full Board Meals
All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
Gate Transfers
Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
Quality Imported Equipments
7-days Kilimanjaro Machame Route Excludes:
Flights
Visa fees
Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation
Gamow Bag
Medication
Tips for porters and mountain crew (20% Industry Standard Recommended)
Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain $150 per room