The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular paths to the summit. This route offers breathtaking views, varied landscapes, and a gradual ascent, allowing for better acclimatization and a rewarding hiking experience. Over seven days, you’ll trek through lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert before reaching the snowy peak of Uhuru. Known for its high success rates, the Machame Route is ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a challenge with ample time to adjust to the altitude.
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m (5,900ft to 9,800ft)
Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Summary: Begin your journey at the Machame Gate, trekking through lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for native wildlife as you make your way to Machame Camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Elevation: 3,000m to 3,850m (9,800ft to 12,600ft)
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Summary: A challenging yet rewarding day as you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. Enjoy expansive views of the Shira Plateau as you reach Shira Camp.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,850m to 4,630m to 3,960m (12,600ft to 15,190ft to 13,000ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Summary: Trek up to the Lava Tower for acclimatization, reaching the highest point of the day before descending to Barranco Camp. This climb-high, sleep-low approach is essential for acclimatization.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m (13,000ft to 13,250ft)
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Summary: Tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep climb that rewards you with incredible views. Continue through valleys and ridges to reach Karanga Camp.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m (13,250ft to 15,220ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Summary: A shorter trekking day to Barafu Camp to rest and prepare for the final ascent. After an early dinner, get some rest before the midnight summit attempt.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (15,220ft to 19,341ft) then down to 3,068m (10,065ft)
Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to rainforest
Summary: Begin the summit attempt at midnight, reaching Stella Point at dawn. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, for a spectacular sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,068m to 1,640m (10,065ft to 5,380ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Summary: A final descent through lush rainforest takes you to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate the completion of your Kilimanjaro journey.
Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro? Join Serengeti Voyage for an unforgettable adventure on the Machame Route. Let’s reach the summit together!
Transport to and from Moshi/Arusha to the trail head
Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping /huts fees, rescue fee and Value Added tax (VAT)
Expert guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
Bottled oxygen for emergency rescue only
Camping tents
S;eeping pads
Mess tents, table, chairs and lanterns
Fresh and nutrition meals on the mountain
Breakfast at the hotel
Your Gateway to Tanzania’s Wilderness At Serengeti Voyage, we bring you closer to the untamed beauty of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
