Kilimanjaro climb by Machame (Whiskey) route.
Arriving at Kilimanjaro International airport (Tanzania). Airport pick-up and transfer to the hotel in Moshi. Later in the afternoon we will have a team orientation and a gear check up. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Elevations: Machame Gates (1634 m) – Machame Camp (2834 m)
Trekking route distance: 10 km/ 6 miles
Duration of trekking: 5-6 hours
Elevations gain: 1,000 m
Trekking route distance: 10 km
Duration of trekking: 5-6 hours
Following a lunch break near Lava Tower, you’ll descend for two hours beneath the lower cliffs of the Western Breach and Breach Wall to reach Barranco Camp at 3,950 m (12,960 ft). This hike offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially if the cliffs are adorned with ice. Barranco Camp is nestled in a valley below the Breach and Great Barranco Walls, providing a stunning sunset as you wait for dinner. Remember to stay alert for any signs of altitude sickness during the day. Overnight will be in the cabins.
Elevations: Shira Camp (3840 m) – Lava Tower (4630 m) – Barranco Camp (3950 m)
Trekking route distance: 15 km
Duration of trekking: 6-8 hours
You’ll begin your day with an early wake-up and breakfast before starting the ascent of Barranco Wall. We recommend leaving camp as early as possible to avoid the crowds from other groups. The hike up the gorge wall takes about an hour. Once you reach the top, you can take a break and snap photos in front of the Kibo volcano.
Next, we trek to Karanga Camp, which includes several ascents and descents. Don’t worry—our guides are skilled at finding the right pace for the group. Upon reaching the camp, you’ll be served a warm lunch. After a couple of hours, you’ll embark on an acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp, gaining 200 meters in altitude before descending back to Karanga Camp.
Change in Elevation: Barranco Camp (3,960 m) — Karanga Camp (4,035 m)
Trekking route distance: 5 km
Trekking time: 4–5 hours
Change in Elevation: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Destination point en route to Barafu Camp (4,270 m)
Hiking distance: 2.5 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours
Change in Elevation: Barranco Camp (3,960 m) — Karanga Camp (4,035 m)
Trekking route distance: 5 km
Trekking time: 4–5 hours
Change in Elevation: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Destination point en route to Barafu Camp (4,270 m)
Hiking distance: 2.5 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours
The summit attempt begins around midnight from Barafu Camp (4,640 m). While the trek is relatively straightforward, the thin mountain air can be challenging. To ensure safety, each pair of climbers will be accompanied by a guide who will monitor their condition throughout the climb. Once at the main summit, you’ll have the chance to explore the nearby glacier. We then descend back to Barafu Camp for two-hour rest and lunch, and after we begin a descent to Millennium Camp at 3,820 m.
Distance: 15.5 km
Time: 7–12 hrs
Located much lower at the forest line, this last camp will provide you with a restful night’s sleep, especially after the achievement of reaching the summit. After breakfast, you’ll head back down to Mweka Gate at 1,650 m, marking the final point of your adventure. Upon arrival, you’ll have a brief celebration with the entire climbing team, and you’ll receive your climbing certificates at our office. Finally, you’ll be driven to the hotel for a well-deserved rest and a celebration dinner.
Distance: 12 km
Time: 4–5 hrs
Transfer to the airport. Departure from Tanzania.
PAYMENT POLICY
A deposit of $1,000 is due at time of registration to reserve a space on the expedition.
A full payment is due 60 days prior to the expedition start date.
CANCELATION POLICY
Refunds will not be issued for cancellations made less than 60 days prior to the scheduled date.
Price includes
- All Tanzania transportation on scheduled dates
- Meeting at Transfer from and to the Airport (arrival and departure dates)
- Two nights hotel accommodation, double occupancy. Single room available for an additional charge (Bed and Breakfast)
- All group equipment
- National Park Entrance fees
- Climbing permits
- Porters, drivers, local guides, cook, servers
- All meals: breakfast, lunch, dinners and hot drinks
- Camping huts and tents at the high camp
- 7 Summits Club Super Guide and a legend in the world of Alpinism Alex Abramov
- Certificate and silver medal for the successful climb
- 7 Summits Club T-shirt and buff
- Celebration dinner after the climb
Price does not include
Detailed confirmation package will be sent upon booking.
- Round trip airfare to Arusha,Tanzania
- Tanzanian visa fees
- All expenses incurred in the event of early departure (transport, extra hotel nights, evacuation fees, etc)
- Any extensions before or after the specified itinerary (we are happy to help you plan these)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal gear/ personal gear rentals
- Optional single room accommodation (hotels only)
- Personal expenses
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities for the guides and porters
- Optional Safari Tour/ more details upon request
Additional services
Tanzania, Kilimanjaro (5895m), Mountaineering
Trip overview
Moshi - Machame Gate - Shira Camp - Barranco Camp - Karanfa Camp - Barafu Camp - peak Ukhuru - Millenium Camp - Mweka Gate - Moshi
Why go there?
Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters, is an extinct volcano featuring three distinct peaks: Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi. As the highest mountain in Africa, it’s renowned as one of the most stunning locations on the planet. Nestled entirely within Tanzania, Kilimanjaro offers a unique experience for climbers.
This non-technical mountain is accessible to anyone in a good physical shape and with a bit of patience. There are several routes to the summit, each offering a diverse experience through lush rainforests, expansive moorlands, and breathtaking glaciers.
In addition to the climb, many visitors take advantage of the opportunity to explore nearby wildlife parks, making their trip a perfect combination of adventure and safari. Kilimanjaro is not only a challenging climb but also a journey through diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes, making it a bucket-list destination for many. Plus, the chance to witness the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from its slopes adds to the magic of the experience.
Kilimanjaro is the most accessible of the Seven Summits, making it the most popular choice for climbers. Our route features moderate slopes and comfortable huts equipped with dormitories and dining areas.
Why climb with us?
- 7 summits provides the best service and accommodation during the whole trip
- 7 Summits provides comfortable accommodation during the climb, comfortable huts equipped with dormitories and dining areas.
- 7 Summits has the most extensive experience in organizing commercial climbs and challenging high-altitude expeditions
- The highest success rate for summits
- Reliable and trusted local partners
- We offer 5% discounts for your next adventures with us
- We have the most experienced and qualified guides, including world- renowned mountaineers
Personal gear
GEAR LIST
Each item on the list below is required unless specified to be optional
If seasonal fluctuations impact the requirement for an item on your list, it will be specified
All other items are required regardless of the forecast to ensure your well-being, as weather and conditions can change quickly in the mountains
TRAVEL ITEMS
- Day Pack 35 - 45 L
This pack will be used as a carryon bag for the trip to Africa and for your personal belongings on the climb.
- Expedition Duffel Bag
An approximately 120-liter expedition-ready duffel bag used to transport all gear. All items need to fit securely into the duffel bag.
- Casual Travel Clothes
We recommend wearing clean clothing while traveling and before and after your trip. It's a good idea to pack a comfortable variety of outfits, including some t-shirts, swimsuits (optional).
TECHNICAL CLOTHING
- Baselayer Bottom
2 pairs of thermal bottoms: one light weight and one medium weight. Fabric: wool, wool blend, synthetic or polyester. No cotton.
- Baselayer Tops
2 thermal long sleeved tops: one light weight and one medium weight. Fabric: wool or synthetic. No cotton.
- 1 sun hoodie, preferably light colored.
- Trekking Pants
A pair or two of lightweight trekking pants. Zippered pockets are good and thigh vents can be useful on hot days. “Convertible” pants are useful to turn into shorts on hot days. We also recommend synthetic fabrics.
- Softshell Pants
Non-insulated, stretchy softshell pants that should fit comfortably with or without your baselayer bottoms.
- Hardshell Pants
These must fit over your thermal under layers and softshell pants. These must be non-insulated, lightweight, waterproof and have full zips on the side to get on and off over your climbing boots and crampons.
- Insulated Synthetic Pants
These will be worn around camp and may be useful to climb in on summit day depending on temperature. Fabric: Synthetic or Down. Medium weight is ideal. These should fit over both your thermal under layers and your climbing pants. These must have full zips on the sides to get them on and off over your climbing boots and crampons without taking your boots off.
- Midlayer Top
A midweight, lightweight fleece layer for use over baselayers. Hoods are optional but recommended. Very light down jackets can also suffice as a midlayer.
- Softshell Jacket
This breathable, wind-and-weather resistant jacket is a key part of a mountaineering layering system. A hooded model is highly recommended. This layer must fit well over your midlayer top and baselayer top.
- Hardshell Jacket
A non-insulated, fully waterproof shell jacket with a hood. This layer must fit comfortably over your baselayer, midlayer, softshell, and potentially a lightweight insulated layer. Helmet-compatible hoods are required.
- Lightweight Insulated Jacket
You may use this as a layering piece or as stand-alone insulation when appropriate. Down or synthetic insulation. Down is more packable and lighter weight, and synthetic insulation will retain warmth when wet.
- Down Parka
Expedition style parka should be heavily insulated with high-quality down fill (800-fill or more) and must have an insulated hood. It should fit comfortably over the rest of your upper body layers. Down sweaters or light puffy jackets will not be sufficient.
HANDWEAR
- Lightweight Liner Gloves
Lightweight wool or synthetic liner gloves.
- Softshell Gloves
Midweight, lightly insulated gloves. Leather-palm construction is recommended.
- Insulated Mittens
Waterproof shell mittens with insulating liners. We recommend that your liner gloves can fit inside the mitten system as well.
- Hand Warmers and Foot Warmers (Optional)
Bring enough pairs to get you through the expedition but not more as they are heavy to carry up the mountain. If you are bringing the Hotronics electric foot warmers you will likely not need the chemical warmers. Note: chemical hand warmers use oxygen to burn so do not work well at high altitude and the foot warmers in the boots do not really work at all on summit day.
HEADWEAR
- Buff Neck Gaiter
- Balaclava
- Sunhat
- Wool or Synthetic Ski Hat
- Sunglasses
These must be high quality UV-blocking lenses.
*Note: If you need prescription Sunglasses contact the manufacturer for options well in advance of your trip.
- Headlamp
A headlamp 200-300 Lumens. Please bring extra batteries.
FOOTWEAR
- Liner Socks
2-3 pairs of liner socks.
- Wool or Synthetic Socks
3 pairs of medium to heavy hiking socks. These must fit over your liner socks if you plan to wear liner socks.
- Gaiters
Waterproof gaiters that must fit snugly over your hiking boots.
- Hiking Boots
Waterproof hiking boots for cool to cold conditions. Modern, lightly insulated boots with room in the toe box and good ankle support.
- Running shoes
Lightweight, comfortable running or walking shoes are recommended for off-mountain use and pre-and-post trip travel. In some situations, these may also serve as approach shoes.
- Double Boots
Double boots designed for mountaineering. Plastic-shelled models are sufficient, but modern non-plastic boots are more comfortable and are highly recommended.
*Note: single boots of any kind (boots without a removable liner) will not be sufficient.
If using a boot with a built-in gaiter, separate gaiters are not necessary.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
- Trekking Poles
These must be lightweight and collapsible to fit in your duffel bag. The “flick lock” style is the most reliable.
- 0F/ -18C Down Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag filled with down or synthetic insulation.
- Inflatable Sleeping Pad
- Foam Pad
- Water Bottles
2 one-liter wide-mouth hard-sided water bottles.
Camelback-type hydration systems or soft-sided water bottles are unacceptable. They freeze, pop and break.
- 1 Liter Stainless Steel Thermos
- 0.5 Nalgene Bottle (Optional)
This baby Nalgene bottle is ideal for hot drinks. Because of the size and the leak-proof lid, it allows you to stick the bottle in your pocket or inside your jacket.
- Water purification: Iodine tablets, filter or UV treatment
It is very important to have a way to purify your drinking water up high.
- Pee Bottle
Collapsible or hard-sided 1 liter Nalgene models.
- Pee Funnel For Women
Optional. Practice is needed for the use of this item.
- Sunscreen
Should be with a high zinc content and sweat resistance. This must be 30 SPF or higher.
- Lip Balm with SPF 30+
- Altitude Watch (Optional)
- Small Pocket Size Camera (Optional)
- Solar Panel (Optional); Power Bank
- Medical Kit
Should include: blister kit, low dose aspirin, Band-Aids, wound closure strips, triple antibiotic ointment, basic repair kit, scissors, Diamox (acetazolamide, 125mg) for AMS, nifedipine (for pulmonary edema, time release), dexamethasone (for cerebral edema, 4mg), antacids, NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen, anti-diarrheal, duct tape, ear plugs, Antibiotics (upper respiratory such as Azithromycin and a gastro-intestinal such as Ciprofloxacin), melatonin, Asthma medication if you use it (Advair), cold and flu medication. Prescription medications in consultation with your doctor.
- Toiletry Bag
Should Include: toilet paper, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, shampoo,
trek towel (compact and quick drying), earplugs and any personal medications or prescriptions. Choose a quantity appropriate for the length of your trip.
- Lightweight poncho or umbrella (optional)
An umbrella is nice to have if it rains to help keep dry. The one with a long handle is better. A rain poncho helps to keep you dry while staying cooler, as wearing your shell layers can be very warm on the first few days of the climb.
- Snacks
We recommend assortments of hard candies; chocolate; dried fruits; special athletic foods such as energy gels (Gu); electrolytes (Nuun); Clif Shot Bloks; energy bars; protein bars; trail mix nuts.
- We have the biggest record of orginizing many commertial technical and altitude expeditions.
- We have the biggest record of orginizing many commertial technical and altitude expeditions.
- Our guides are highly experience with guide work on many serious climbs all over the world.
- We offer the best accommodation and food conditions. Your personal needs any special kinds of food will be considered.
- You can contact your personal advisor in the gear issue for free consultation. Plus free delivery of your personal rented gear to base camp.
- We offer the scheme of discounts for loyal clients.
