ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is renowned for its scenic beauty, challenging terrain, and high summit success rate. This route is perfect for those who are physically fit and seeking an adventurous challenge with stunning panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
The Machame Route is a non-technical climb, but it involves long, strenuous days of hiking through varied climates and diverse ecosystems. From lush rainforests at lower elevations to the alpine deserts higher up, the route offers a truly immersive experience of Mount Kilimanjaro’s ecological zones.
While the route’s difficulty can be demanding, its high altitude and scenic vistas make it a favorite among hikers. The route is designed to provide ample acclimatization opportunities, helping to increase your chances of reaching the summit.
ARRIVAL DAY
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our representative who will transfer you to your pre-trek hotel. This evening, our head guide will conduct a comprehensive briefing, ensuring you’re fully equipped with knowledge about your upcoming adventure. This will include reviewing your trekking gear and discussing vital mountain info to set you up for a successful ascent.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Hotel – Machame Hut
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to the Machame Gate, the entry point to your adventure. The transfer offers scenic views of the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro and the nearby Machame village. Upon registration, you’ll start your trek through the lush montane forest, navigating winding trails that ascend steadily. Expect a muddy and slippery trail at times—gaiters and trekking poles will come in handy here. After reaching Machame Hut, enjoy your first evening under the mountain sky.
- Elevation: 1800m/6000ft to 2835m/9301ft
- Distance: 11km/7 miles
- Trek Time: 5-6 hours
- Terrain: Rainforest
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Camp under the stars at Machame Hut
Day 2: Machame Hut – Shira Cave
After breakfast, you’ll continue your ascent through dense forest and rough ridges, crossing valleys and navigating rocky paths. As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes more sparse, giving way to moorland. The journey will take you to the Shira Cave, where you’ll settle for the night amidst breathtaking vistas and prepare for the days ahead.
- Elevation: 2835m/9301ft to 3750m/12,600ft
- Distance: 5km/3 miles
- Trek Time: 4-5 hours
- Terrain: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping at Shira Cave
Day 3: Shira Cave via Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
The day begins with a climb eastward along the rugged Shira Plateau, heading toward the towering Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation rising 300ft from the surrounding landscape. This section is key for acclimatization, as it will help your body adjust to the altitude. After passing the Lava Tower, you’ll continue your trek to Barranco Camp, where you’ll camp in a valley surrounded by jagged peaks.
- Elevation: 3750m/12,600ft to 3950m/13,000ft
- Distance: 10km/6 miles
- Trek Time: 5-6 hours
- Terrain: Semi-desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping at Barranco Camp
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp
The morning begins with a challenging yet rewarding climb up the Barranco Wall, an iconic rock face that offers dramatic views of the surrounding landscapes. The path leads you through the Karanga Valley and onto the Barafu Camp, the staging area for summit night. As you settle in, enjoy an early dinner and prepare your gear for the summit push.
- Elevation: 3950m/13,000ft to 4673m/15,350ft
- Distance: 9km/5.6 miles
- Trek Time: 7-8 hours
- Terrain: Heath, Moorland, Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation: Camp at Barafu Camp
Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
This is the moment you’ve been preparing for—summit day! Woken in the early hours between 12:00 and 2:00 AM, you’ll begin the ascent to Uhuru Peak, following a route across glaciers and through scree slopes. As you push upward, you’ll reach Stella Point, where you’ll witness the first rays of the sun. From there, a final push to Uhuru Peak awaits, and you’ll be standing at 5895 meters, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your accomplishment, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for rest and continue further down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
- Barafu Hut to Uhuru Peak:
- Elevation: 4673m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,341ft
- Distance: 5km/3 miles
- Trek Time: 6-7 hours
- Terrain: Arctic
- Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp:
- Elevation: 5895m/19,341ft to 3000m/10,150ft
- Distance: 13km/8 miles
- Trek Time: 5-7 hours
- Terrain: Arctic, Alpine Desert, Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping at Mweka Camp
Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Hotel
On your final day, you’ll descend through the verdant rainforest, taking in the lush surroundings as you head toward the Mweka Gate, where your trekking adventure concludes. After signing out, you’ll meet your team for a celebratory farewell and be transferred back to your hotel to rest, reflect, and enjoy your achievement.
- Elevation: 3000m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
- Distance: 10km/6 miles
- Trek Time: 3-4 hours
- Terrain: Forest
- Meals: Breakfast
PACKAGE
Package Inclusions
Travel Handbook
Included in Package
Airport Pick up and drop off
Pre and Post Trek Hotel accommodation
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, and taxes
Q-4 season mountain tents
Transportation to and from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
3 meals per day whilst on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Excluded in Package
International flights
Traveler’s insurance
VISA
Drinks outside safari
Tipping (we recommend from $10 per person per day)