Overview of the Machame Route
The Machame Route, also known as the Whiskey Route, is one of the most popular and scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned for its varied landscapes and stunning views, the route is ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb.
Key Highlights:
1. Diverse Scenery
The Machame Route takes climbers through five distinct ecological zones, starting with lush rainforest and continuing through moorland, alpine desert, and finally to the icy summit.
2. Acclimatization
The route follows a “climb high, sleep low” strategy, increasing the chances of a successful summit.
3. Camping Experience
Unlike some routes that offer hut accommodations, Machame requires camping, adding an adventurous touch to the trek.
4. Panoramic Views
Trekkers are treated to breathtaking vistas of Mount Meru, the Shira Plateau, and the towering glaciers of Kilimanjaro.
Key Features
Duration: Typically 6–7 days
Distance: Approximately 62 kilometers (37 miles)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to high; requires good physical fitness and determination
Summit Success Rate: High, due to better acclimatization opportunities
Why choose Machame
The Machame Route offers an immersive trekking experience for those willing to embrace its challenges. Its scenic beauty, combined with a well-designed acclimatization profile, makes it one of the most successful routes to the roof of Africa.
This is an excellent choice for both first-time climbers and seasoned adventurers seeking a memorable journey to the summit of Kilimanjaro.
7 Days Machame Route Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)
*Hiking Distance: ~11 km
*Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
*Habitat: Rainforest
*Activity:
Begin your trek at the Machame Gate after registration. Walk through lush rainforest with a chance to spot monkeys and colorful birds. Arrive at Machame Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Machame Camp (2,835m) to Shira Camp (3,750m)
* Hiking Distance: ~5 km
* Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
* Habitat: Moorland
* Activity:
Leave the forest and trek into the moorland zone with stunning views of Kibo Peak. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Shira Camp. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets on the plateau.
Day 3: Shira - (3,750m) -lava Tower (4,630m), - arranco Camp (3,960m)
* Hiking Distance: ~10 km
* Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
* Habitat: Semi-desert
* Activity:
Acclimatize by ascending to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. The "climb high, sleep low" approach enhances altitude adaptation. Marvel at the unique giant senecio trees and the stunning Barranco Wall in the distance.
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
* Hiking Distance: ~5 km
* Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
* Habitat: Alpine desert
* Activity:
Tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a non-technical but thrilling climb. Traverse ridges and valleys with spectacular views. Reach Karanga Camp in the afternoon, allowing for rest and acclimatization.
Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
* Hiking Distance: ~4 km
* Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
* Habitat: Alpine desert
* Activity:
A short but steep climb leads to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon preparing and resting before the final ascent begins at midnight.
Day 6: Barafu (4,640m) -Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then - Mweka Camp (3,080m)
* Hiking Distance: ~13 km (ascent) + ~12 km (descent)
* Hiking Time: 12-16 hours
* Habitat: Arctic to rainforest
* Activity:
Begin the summit push around midnight under a star-lit sky. Reach Stella Point at dawn, then continue to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebratory photos, descend to Barafu for rest, then continue to Mweka Camp.
Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,080m) to Mweka Gate (1,630m)
* Hiking Distance: ~10 km
* Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
* Habitat: Rainforest
* Acitivity:
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificates. Celebrate your achievement with your team before transferring back to Moshi.
Price Includes
Transfer from JRO Airport to the hotel.
Return Transfer from accommodation to the airport.
Transfer to the Kilimanjaro gate
All National Park fees (rescue fees)
3 days Accommodation in hotel (one night before and one night after climbing )
All camping facilities
Meals (All meals during hiking)
Safety equipment (medical kit)
Professional mountain guides with WHR certificate
Assistant guide
Porters and Cook
Emergency oxygen
Warm water for washing each day at the mountain
Clean purified drinking water
Shaping after climb
Government tax
Price Excludes:
TIP Porters 10$ a day Cook's 15$ a day Guides 20$
Tanzania visa on arrival (100$ for American citizen and 50 for the others)
Mountain insurance
