KILIMANJARO CLIMBING
MACHAME ROUTE
The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its diverse landscapes and stunning views, the Machame Route is a favorite among adventurers seeking a more challenging and rewarding climb. This route typically takes 6 to 7 days, allowing better acclimatization and a higher success rate in reaching Uhuru Peak.
Starting at Machame Gate, the trek begins with a journey through lush rainforests filled with unique flora and fauna. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into a striking moorland zone, followed by the alpine desert, offering sweeping views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Highlights of the route include the spectacular Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and the Lava Tower.
The Machame Route requires trekkers to be physically fit, as the steep ascents and rocky terrain, particularly near Barafu Camp, make the climb more demanding. The final push to Uhuru Peak begins at midnight, rewarding climbers with breathtaking sunrise views over the summit.
For those seeking a thrilling, scenic, and challenging trek to the summit of Africa’s highest peak, the Machame Route offers an unforgettable experience.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 1 - Machame gate to Machame Hut
Drive from the hotel in Moshi town- (800m) after breakfast to Machame gate – (1800m) for reservation and start climbing through the rain forest up to Machame camp – (3000m). It takes 5-6hrs with picnic lunch on the way. Dinner and Overnight at Machame camp- (3000m). Distance covered is 10.75km and altitude gained is 1200m.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2 - Machame hut to Shira 2 camp
After breakfast continue on hiking through the heath and moorland to Shira 2 camp- (3850m) with Picnic Lunch on the way for 4-5hrs. Dinner and overnight at the campsite. Distance covered is 5.3km and altitude gained is 850m. This is amore open area for taking good photos.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3 - Shira 2 camp to Baranco Wall
Early in the morning after breakfast start hiking to Barranco Camp- (3940m) through Lava Tower – (4600m) for acclimatizing. It takes 6 -7hrs with picnic lunch, Dinner and overnight Barranco camp (3940m). Distance covered is 10.75km via Lava Tower and altitude gained is 750m then from Lava Tower to Barranco altitude lost is 660m.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4 - Baranco wall to Barafu camp
After breakfast start climbing Barranco walls- (4250m) to Barafu Camp – (4600m) with picnic lunch. It takes 6-8hrs. Distance covered is 8.5km and altitude covered is 850m. After arriving at the camp, rest and then will have early dinner and sleep for a short hours then wake up about 11:00pm, pack the useful things for the summit have hot drinks and bites and start hiking to the top of Africa Uhuru Peak- (5895m) it takes about 6-7hrs and distance covered is 4.86km and altitude gained is 1295m.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5 - Barafu Camp-Uhuru peak-Mweka camp
It takes about 3hrs from summit to Barafu camp for breakfast and rest for few hours, eat hot lunch and then continue descending from the alpine desert, heath and moorland to the edge of the rain forest at Mweka camp- (3100m). Distance covered from Uhuru Peak to Barafu camp and to Mweka camp is 11.5km and altitude lost is 2795m.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Walk after breakfast to Mweka Gate (1800m) through the rain Forest for 3-4hrs distance covered is 9.1km and altitude lost is 1400m. Receive your award certificate if you will have made it to the top and meet the vehicle and transfer to the Hotel Moshi for hot shower and lunch.
Accomodation
- End of Tour
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
PHOTOS
Inclusions
Porterage
Rescue fee
Park fees
All activities
All accommodation
A professional driver / guide
All transportation
All Taxes / VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals
Drinking water
EXCLUSIONS
Climbing gear
International flights
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Personal items
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Highlights
Scenic and Diverse Landscapes
The Machame Route is known for its stunning and varied landscapes, starting with lush rainforests, transitioning through moorlands and alpine deserts, and finishing on the glacier-topped summit of Uhuru Peak.
Shira Plateau
A vast, flat expanse of land offering panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak, the Shira Plateau is one of the most scenic sections of the climb, with breathtaking sunsets.
Mawenzi and Kibo Views
Trekking past Horombo Hut, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s twin peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo, with rugged and scenic landscapes stretching out before you.
Barranco Wall
A challenging yet exhilarating ascent, the Barranco Wall offers both excitement and spectacular views. Although steep, it is not technical, and the reward is the panoramic vistas at the top.
Lava Tower
This 4,600-meter-high volcanic rock formation offers trekkers a great acclimatization opportunity. Standing beneath the Lava Tower is a surreal experience amidst the alpine desert landscape.
Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets
The climb offers some of the most memorable sunrises and sunsets, especially from camps like Barafu and Shira, with views over the clouds and surrounding peaks.
Summiting Uhuru Peak
The ultimate highlight is reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The final push begins before dawn, allowing climbers to witness the sunrise from the roof of Africa, creating an unforgettable moment.
