The Machame Route, famously known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular trekking trails. Offering stunning views, varied landscapes, and excellent acclimatization, it is a favourite among adventurers seeking a well-balanced and rewarding climb. Unlike the Marangu Route, Machame is a camping-only trek, adding a greater sense of wilderness and adventure to the journey.
This 6-day itinerary provides an efficient yet suitably paced ascent, giving climbers a strong chance of reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. The trail passes through lush rainforest, mystical heather moorlands, dramatic lava formations, alpine deserts, and the awe-inspiring glacial summit zone. With its beauty and high success rates, the Machame Route is ideal for trekkers looking for a scenic and challenging Kilimanjaro experience.
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Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our team will warmly greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a full climb briefing, equipment check, and final preparations. Rest well and hydrate before your trek begins.
Your journey begins at Machame Gate, where procedures and registrations are completed. The trail starts with a steady climb through dense rainforest, rich with birdlife, ferns, and towering trees draped in moss. The path is sometimes muddy, adding to the adventure.
Arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon, settle into your tents, and enjoy a hot meal.
Today’s trek leads out of the rainforest and into the heather moorland, featuring volcanic rocks and unique vegetation. The trail is shorter but steeper as you ascend to the Shira Plateau, a vast high-altitude desert with sweeping views.
Arrive at Shira Camp, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Shira Ridge.
A key acclimatization day. Trek toward the iconic Lava Tower, reaching 4,630m before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy significantly improves acclimatization and summit success.
The landscape becomes more rugged and alpine, while Barranco Camp offers magnificent views of the mighty Barranco Wall.
Start the day by climbing the impressive Barranco Wall—a non-technical but adventurous scramble offering spectacular views. Continue through alpine ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, your lunch stop.
After lunch, continue on a steady ascent to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit. Arrive early evening, rest, and prepare your gear for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Begin your summit push around midnight. The trail to Stella Point (5,756m) is steep and demanding. From Stella Point, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise and celebrate your achievement before starting the long descent back to Barafu Camp for rest and lunch. Continue downward to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Descend through the lush rainforest, enjoying the warmer climate and fresh air. At Mweka Gate, complete park formalities and collect your summit certificate—a lasting reminder of your achievement.
Our team will drive you back to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and a celebratory dinner.
Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If you’re connecting to a safari or Zanzibar holiday, we will assist with smooth arrangements.
Your Machame Route adventure ends with outstanding memories and a deep sense of achievement.
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
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$ 1,473
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$ 1,658
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$ 2,350
Per person
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$ 2,700
Per person
From
$ 2,700
Per person
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$ 1,950
Per person
