7 Days Western Breach

A Majestic Ascent to Kilimanjaro's Summit

Trek Overview

Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities, and low climber traffic, the Machame route is among the best Kilimanjaro routes. It’s our personal favorite for reaching the roof of Africa.

After a 1-hour drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, you’ll find yourself on the eastern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro. From there, the adventure begins through all climate zones—from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, and the 7-day Western Breach via Machame route boasts one of the highest success rates.

Itinerary

Arrive in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Your guide will brief you about the trek and perform an equipment check to ensure you have all necessary gear. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1800m) to Machame Camp (2835m)

Distance covered: 11 km

Approximate time taken: 7 hours

Habitat: Montane forest

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from the hotel around 8:00 am and transferred to Machame Gate. Along the way, you’ll see coffee and banana plantations grown by the Chagga people. After completing park formalities at the gate, the trek begins through a tropical rainforest to Machame Camp. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the route. Overnight at Machame Camp.

Day 2 : Machame Camp (2835m) to Shira Cave Camp (3800m)

Distance covered: 5 km

Approximate time taken: 3 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Start hiking around 8:00 am, climbing an hour to the top of the forest and then through the moorland zone. After a short snack break, continue up a rocky ridge to the Shira Plateau. From here, you’ll have views of the western breach with its stunning glacier. Overnight at Shira Campsite.

Day 3: Shira Cave Camp (3800m) to Lava Tower Camp (4600m)

Distance covered: 7 km

Approximate time taken: 5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

The moorlands end as the trek enters the alpine desert, reaching Lava Tower Camp. This offers great photo opportunities of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall. The campsite is in a valley below lava rocks, providing memorable sunset views. Overnight at Lava Tower Camp.

Day 4: Lava Tower Camp (4600m) to Arrow Glacier Camp (4900m)

Distance: 1 km

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a short but steep hike to Arrow Glacier Camp, at the foot of the Hein Glacier. Overnight at Arrow Glacier Camp.

Day 5: Arrow Glacier Camp (4900m) to Crater Camp (5790m)

Distance covered: 7 km

Approximate time taken: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Wake up around 3 am to start the hike to Crater Camp, reaching around 10 am. Crater Camp is set in soft sands near the Furtwangler Glacier. This challenging extension involves sleeping overnight in the bowl of the crater. It’s an amazing experience enjoyed by only a few of the most adventurous climbers.

Day 6: Crater Camp (5790m) to Uhuru Peak then to Mweka Camp (3100m)

Distance covered: 15 km

Approximate time taken: 6 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert/Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After an early breakfast, begin the ascent to Uhuru Peak, expecting to see the sunrise with a cup of tea at the top. After taking photos, descend to Stella Point and continue down the scree slope past Barafu Camp for a short break before heading to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest. Overnight at Mweka Camp.

Day 7: Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)

Distance covered: 10 km

Approximate time taken: 3 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Meal: Breakfast, and lunch included

Descend through the montane forest to Mweka Gate. Complete park formalities and receive your certificates. Return to the hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved celebration.

Package Pricing

1 Person 2 - 4 People 5 - 9 People 10+ People
$2,100 Per Person
$1,950 Per Person
$1,900 Per Person
$1,850 Per Person

What's Included:

  • Accommodation at The Mountain Bikes House in Moshi
  • Transportation to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Experienced mountain guide
  • National park fees
  • All meals during the trek
  • Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat)
  • Porterage for personal gear
  • First-aid kit
  • Treated drinking water

What's Not Included:

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Personal items (e.g., clothing, toiletries)
  • Travel insurance

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