Overview:

The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular and scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for trekkers with spectacular views and diverse landscapes. The route includes gradual acclimatization and is suitable for climbers with a moderate level of fitness.
Over seven days, you'll journey through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the glacier-covered summit.

Details:

Key Details of the Machame Route:
• Duration: 7 Days
• Distance: Approximately 62 kilometers (39 miles)
• Starting Elevation: 5,380 ft (1,640 m)
• Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (5,895 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Accommodation: Tents
• Best Time to Climb: June to October and December to March

ITINERARY :

Arrival Day
On arrival in Moshi, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, we will conduct a detailed orientation and gear check to ensure you are well-prepared for the climb. You’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary, safety protocols, and answer any questions. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and rest for the adventure ahead.

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
• Elevation: 5,380 ft (1,640 m) to 9,350 ft (2,850 m)
• Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
The day starts with a drive to the Machame Gate for registration. From there, you’ll begin your trek through the lush rain forest. The trail is often muddy and slippery, so trekking poles are useful. By late afternoon, you'll reach Machame Camp, where you’ll spend your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
• Elevation: 9,350 ft (2,850 m) to 12,500 ft (3,810 m)
• Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
You’ll ascend out of the rain forest into the moorland zone, characterized by low shrubs and scenic views. The day involves a steady climb to Shira Plateau, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of the summit. You’ll camp at Shira Camp, enjoying breathtaking views of Kibo and the surrounding plains.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
• Elevation: 12,500 ft (3,810 m) to 15,190 ft (4,630 m) to 13,044 ft (3,976 m)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
• Habitat: Semi-Alpine Desert
This is an acclimatization day. You’ll hike to Lava Tower, a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation, where you’ll have lunch and spend some time adjusting to the altitude. From there, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, which is surrounded by unique vegetation, including giant Senecio trees.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
• Elevation: 13,044 ft (3,976 m) to 13,106 ft (3,995 m)
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
You’ll start the day by tackling the Great Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb offering incredible views. After reaching the top, you’ll descend into Karanga Valley and then ascend again to Karanga Camp. This shorter day helps with acclimatization and provides time to rest.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
• Elevation: 13,106 ft (3,995 m) to 15,331 ft (4,673 m)
• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trail continues to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit push. You’ll arrive by early afternoon, allowing time to rest, eat, and prepare for the final ascent. The terrain is rocky, and the air gets noticeably thinner. Early bedtime is essential as you’ll start the summit trek at midnight.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
• Elevation: 15,331 ft (4,673 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) to 10,065 ft (3,070 m)
• Distance: 19 km (11.8 miles)
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
• Habitat: Arctic, then Rain Forest
You’ll wake up around midnight for the most challenging part of the trek. Using headlamps, you’ll climb steeply to Stella Point (18,900 ft), where you’ll witness a stunning sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From there, it’s another hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest and then continue to Mweka Camp for the night.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
• Elevation: 10,065 ft (3,070 m) to 5,380 ft (1,640 m)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
On your final day, you’ll descend through the rain forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificates. From the gate, a vehicle will take you back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration at your hotel.

PRICE (USD)

PRICE INCLUDES

- Dedicated Customer Satisfaction Associate: Personalized assistance throughout your climb, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

- Airport Pickup and Drop-off: Convenient transport to and from the airport at the start and end of your journey.

- Hotel Accommodation: One night before and one night after the climb in a comfortable hotel.

- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during, the climb, including water on the mountain.

- Park Fees and Taxes: All applicable national park entry fees and taxes are covered.

- Transportation: Transfers between the hotel and the trailhead for the start and end of your climb.

- Camping Equipment: High-quality, 3-person mountaineering tents, sleeping mats, and a private toilet tent for your comfort.

- Support Team: A professional team of certified guides, porters, and cooks to assist and support you throughout the trek.

- Kilimanjaro SAR Evacuation Insurance: Comprehensive search and rescue evacuation coverage for peace of mind during your climb.

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Airfare to and from Tanzania
• Personal travel insurance
• Visa
• Tips for the support team
• Sleeping bags and other personal gear
• Rental gear
• Lunch and dinner at the hotel
• Drinks and snacks