Kilimanjaro Machame Route
Quick Overview
Duration
6 - 7 Days
Difficulty
Difficulty
Highlight
Scenic and diverse landscapes
Success rate
98%
Trek Overview
The Machame Route, nicknamed the “Whisky Route,” offers a challenging but rewarding trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. This 6-7 day journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to stark volcanic plains. The route is designed for gradual altitude acclimatization, making it ideal for fit hikers who enjoy stunning scenery. Each day brings new views and challenges, culminating in an exhilarating summit attempt. For those seeking a blend of adventure and natural beauty, the Machame Trek is an excellent choice to conquer Kilimanjaro.
Why Choose Machame route
- Stunning Scenery: Diverse landscapes provide breathtaking views.
- Good Acclimatization: “Climb high, sleep low” helps your body adjust.
- Balanced Challenge: A mix of tough climbs and easier trekking.
- Well-Supported: Popular route with reliable guides and porters.
- High Summit Success: Good acclimatization leads to more summits.
- Immersive Camping: Experience the mountain environment fully
Machame Route Full Itineraries
6 Days Climb
Begin your journey at Machame Gate (1,495m/4,905ft). After registration, start your trek through a lush rainforest teeming with colorful birds, monkeys, and an abundance of plant life. Keep an eye out for towering fig trees, vibrant wildflowers, and cascading waterfalls as you ascend.
Emerge from the rainforest and enter the Shira Plateau, a volcanic wonderland. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and diverse landscapes, transitioning from rainforest to heath and moorland. Encounter unique flora adapted to the high altitude and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your guides.
Today’s hike features a challenging climb to Lava Tower (4,600m/15,089ft), offering panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and surrounding glaciers. Descend to Barranco Camp (3,920m/12,861ft) through a semi-desert landscape, allowing your body to further acclimatize to the increasing altitude
Today’s hike tackles the steep Barranco Wall. It’s tough, but the views of the valley below are incredible! Your guides will help you navigate this exciting climb. This will be a longer day than usual, because we’re skipping a camp and heading straight to Barafu Camp (4,600m). That’s high up! But don’t worry, your tents will be ready when you get there. Time to rest up for the big climb tomorrow – the summit push!
Around midnight, you’ll start your climb to the top under the starry sky. Headlamps will light your way as you go up a tough path in the dark. It’s hard, but reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point, is worth it! See the amazing sunrise above the clouds, then head down to Mweka Camp (3,080m) to rest your tired legs.
Hike back through the rainforest, enjoying the cool air. Reach Mweka Gate (1,630m) and celebrate with your team – you conquered Kilimanjaro! Get your well-deserved summit certificate and enjoy your success.
7 Days Climb
Begin your journey at Machame Gate (1,495m/4,905ft). After registration, start your trek through a lush rainforest teeming with colorful birds, monkeys, and an abundance of plant life. Keep an eye out for towering fig trees, vibrant wildflowers, and cascading waterfalls as you ascend.
Emerge from the rainforest and enter the Shira Plateau, a volcanic wonderland. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and diverse landscapes, transitioning from rainforest to heath and moorland. Encounter unique flora adapted to the high altitude and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your guides
Today’s hike features a challenging climb to Lava Tower (4,600m/15,089ft), offering panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and surrounding glaciers. Descend to Barranco Camp (3,920m/12,861ft) through a semi-desert landscape, allowing your body to further acclimatize to the increasing altitude
Gear up for the thrilling Barranco Wall, a steep climb with stunning views of the Barranco Valley below. Navigate this dramatic section with support from your guides and enjoy the rewarding panoramas from the top. Descend to Karanga Camp (3,960m/12,992ft) for a well-deserved rest.
Today’s trek tackles the demanding climb to Barafu Camp (4,600m/15,089ft), the high camp serving as your base for the summit push. Leaving the comforts of Karanga Camp behind, you’ll ascend through increasingly thin air. The landscape transforms into a more barren environment, with scree slopes and rocky terrain dominating the view. It’s a challenging day, but the reward is immense. Upon reaching Barafu Camp, you’ll find your tents pitched and prepared by your team, allowing you to focus on getting crucial rest and mentally preparing for the summit climb the following night.
Begin a pre-dawn summit push, typically starting around midnight. Headlamps will illuminate your path as you ascend through challenging terrain in the darkness. The climb is demanding, but the reward is unparalleled. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), the highest point in Africa, and witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp (3,080m/10,105ft) for a well-deserved rest.
Today marks the final leg of your journey. Descend through the rainforest ecosystem, retracing your steps from day 1. Enjoy the lush vegetation and the refreshing change in temperature. Upon reaching Mweka Gate (1,630m/5,348ft), celebrate your incredible accomplishment with your fellow climbers and guides. Receive your summit certificate and reflect on the unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure
Prices for Machame route
| Number of People | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Days | $1690 | $1660 | $1630 | $1600 | $1570 | $1540 | $1510 | $1470 |
| 7 Days | $1920 | $1890 | $1860 | $1830 | $1800 | $1770 | $1740 | $1710 |
- Kilimanjaro cost Includes
- Moshi/Arusha Stays: 2 comfy nights in a hotel before & after your climb.
- Transport Covered: Rides to & from the mountain starting point.
- Park Fees Included: Permits, camping/hut fees & park taxes included.
- Expert Team: Guides, assistants, cooks & porters for support.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available for safety (not for regular use).
- Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping pads, shared dining area with lights.
- Mountain Meals: Delicious & nutritious food to fuel your adventure.
- Kilimanjaro cost excludes
- Flights & Visas: These are separate, make a plan to arrange them yourself.
- Meals at Hotel: Accommodation is on B&B plan, lunch and dinner are on you.
- Personal Gear: Pack what you need for the climb. Contact us for a detailed packing list.
- Gratitude is Golden: Tips for the crew are welcome!