7 Days Machame Route
OVERVIEW
The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is the second most popular route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is well known for its dramatic scenery, varied landscapes, and rewarding trekking experience. Starting on the southern slopes of the mountain, the route begins at Machame Gate and follows an exciting trail through lush tropical rainforest, continuing through all major climate zones before reaching the Arctic-like conditions near the summit.
Camps along the trek are strategically positioned to support a gradual and effective acclimatization process. On the third day, the Machame Route joins the Lemosho and Umbwe routes at Barranco Camp, creating a shared and lively summit journey.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. Later in the day, your guide will provide a detailed trek briefing and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the required mountain gear for the climb.
Distance covered: 11 km
Approximate time taken: 7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel around 8:00 am and driven to Machame Gate. Along the way, you will pass coffee and banana plantations cultivated by the local Chagga people. Upon arrival, park registration formalities will be completed before beginning the climb. The trek starts through dense tropical rainforest, gradually ascending to Machame Camp (2835m). A picnic lunch will be served along the route. Dinner and overnight at Machame Camp.
Distance covered: 5 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
The hike begins around 8:00 am. You will climb steadily for about an hour to the upper edge of the forest, followed by a gentler ascent through the moorland zone. After a short break and light snacks, the trail continues along a rocky ridge onto the Shira Plateau. From here, you will enjoy views toward the eastern side of the mountain and the impressive Western Breach with its glaciers. Overnight at Shira Cave Camp (3750m).
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
To aid acclimatization, the trek follows the principle of climbing high and sleeping low. The route ascends into the alpine desert to Lava Tower (4600m) before descending to Barranco Camp (3900m). The descent takes approximately 3 hours and offers excellent photo opportunities of the Western Breach and the Barranco Wall. The campsite is set in a scenic valley beneath the wall, providing a memorable sunset before dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
Distance covered: 6 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
After breakfast, the trek continues up a steep ridge to the impressive Barranco Wall. Although it appears challenging, the climb is non-technical and easier than it looks. Upon reaching the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the mountain, with Kibo’s glaciers towering above. The trail then descends into the lush Karanga Valley, where Karanga Camp is located. From the camp, you can enjoy views of the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. After a hot lunch, the afternoon is free for rest—an important part of acclimatization as the summit attempt approaches.
Distance covered: 4 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
After breakfast, you will hike steadily toward Barafu Camp (4640m). Along the way, there are excellent views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, lunch will be served followed by a long rest in preparation for summit night. Dinner is served early, and you will try to get some sleep before waking around midnight for the final ascent.
Distance covered: 15 km
Approximate time taken: 12–15 hours
Habitat: Glacier / Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
You will wake up around midnight (00:00) and enjoy light tea with biscuits before starting the summit climb. The ascent follows steep scree for 4 to 5 hours, gaining significant altitude over a short distance. Although demanding, the views are spectacular. You should reach Stella Point (5756m) at sunrise, where the first light illuminates the glaciers and crater rim. From there, it is approximately one hour to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa.
After taking photos and celebrating your achievement, you will descend back to Barafu Camp for lunch and a short rest. The trek then continues down to Millennium Camp (3950m) for dinner and overnight.
Distance covered: 14 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Moorland / Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast and lunch included
After breakfast, you will continue the final descent through moorland and lush rainforest. The walk to Mweka Gate takes several hours and is scenic and gradual. Upon arrival, park formalities will be completed and you will receive your summit certificates. A private vehicle will then transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi for a warm shower and well-earned rest. It’s definitely time to celebrate!
Later in the evening or the following day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. Alternatively, we can arrange an affordable safari to some of Tanzania’s top wildlife destinations, including Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.
Trek Pricing
Number of Travelers | Price per Person |
1 Person | 2350 USD |
2 - 4 people | 2300 USD |
5 - 9 people | 2260 USD |
10+ people | 2200 USD |
Tipping Guidelines
- Tips for porters / cooks ($10 – $15 per porter per day).
- Tips for the guides ($20 – $25 per person per day or a group amount)
Climbing Cost Includes
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
- Group transport to and from Moshi to the trail head
- Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees, rescue fees and Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Expert guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
- Bottled oxygen, for emergency rescue only
- Four season, 3 person mountain tents, double occupancy
- Sleeping pad, foam, 1.5 inches thick
- Mess tents, tables, chairs, lanterns
- Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain
- Breakfast at hotel
Climbing cost excludes
- Airfare
- Beverages at hotel
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips
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