MACHAME ROUTE

Overview:

The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is renowned for its scenic beauty and varied terrain, offering one of the most rewarding Kilimanjaro experiences. This 7-day itinerary is designed to maximize acclimatization time, enhancing your chances of a successful summit. It is ideal for adventurers who want an unforgettable challenge, taking in the diverse landscapes—from lush rainforests to the stark beauty of the summit zone—on their way to the Roof of Africa.

BOOKING DETAILS

Expedition Dates: July 25th - 31st, 2025
Arrival in Moshi: 23rd July, 2025
Team: at least 6pax

Place To visit

Machame Gate, Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak, Mweka Camp and Mweka Gate

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Machame Route Master4

FULL ITINERARY

Arrival in Moshi

You will be picked up from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) by our tour driver, who will transfer you to a comfortable mid-range hotel in Moshi. Attend a pre-climb briefing where our experienced guides will provide essential information about the trek, ensuring that you are fully prepared and confident for the days ahead. A session
to discuss the details of the climb, check the required gears, and offer clarity where it is needed.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m/5,900ft) to Machame Camp (2,835m/9,300ft)

Machame Gate (1,800m/5,900ft) to Machame Camp (2,835m/9,300ft)

  • Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
  • Estimated Time: 5-7 hours
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Habitat: Rainforest

After a hearty breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate, where the adventure begins. Our team will efficiently handle all park formalities, allowing you to focus on the journey ahead. The trek starts with a hike through the dense and vibrant rainforest, where you may encounter unique wildlife and beautiful flora. The trail is steep, but the lush surroundings and the prospect of what lies ahead make it an exhilarating start. Upon reaching Machame Camp, you’ll settle in for your first night on the mountain, enjoying a nutritious meal and the camaraderie of fellow trekkers

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,750m/12,300ft)

Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,750m/12,300ft)

  • Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
  • Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, as you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. The landscape changes dramatically, offering stunning views and the first clear sight of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak. The rocky terrain and thinning air make this day both challenging and rewarding. Upon arrival at Shira Camp, you’ll be greeted with expansive views of the summit and the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a warm meal and rest under the starry skies, feeling a step closer to your goal.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190ft) to Barranco Camp (3,976m/13,044ft)

Shira Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190ft) to Barranco Camp (3,976m/13,044ft)

  • Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
  • Estimated Time: 6-8 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Habitat: Semi-desert

This day is crucial for acclimatization as you trek from Shira Camp to the dramatic Lava Tower, a massive volcanic rock formation. The ascent to Lava Tower is challenging due to the altitude, but it's an important part of the acclimatization process. After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, which is situated in a beautiful valley. The descent to a lower altitude for the night helps your body adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of a successful summit. Enjoy another satisfying meal and rest at Barranco Camp, reflecting on the day’s achievements.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m/13,106ft)

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m/13,106ft)

  • Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
  • Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day begins with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable cliff that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While the climb may seem daunting, the support and encouragement from your guides and fellow trekkers will make it an exhilarating experience. Once over the Wall, the trail winds through a series of undulating hills and valleys, eventually leading to Karanga Camp. This shorter trekking day is intentionally designed to allow further acclimatization, ensuring that your body is well-prepared for the summit attempt in the coming days.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,331ft)

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,331ft)

  • Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
  • Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek is relatively short but involves a steady climb to Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit push. Barafu means “ice” in Swahili, and the camp lives up to its name, often offering a cold and barren environment. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to rest and prepare your gear for the summit attempt, which will begin in the early hours of the next day. The anticipation builds as you realize you’re just hours away from the pinnacle of your Kilimanjaro journey. Enjoy an early dinner and get plenty of rest in preparation for the summit.

Day 6: Summit Night – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft)

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft)

  • Ascent Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
  • Estimated Time: Ascent - 7-8 hours
  • Descent Distance: 12 km (7 miles)
  • Estimated Time: Descent - 4-6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Habitat: Arctic Zone to Forest

Summit day begins well before dawn, as you embark on the most challenging part of the climb. Guided by the light of your headlamp, you’ll make a slow and steady ascent towards Uhuru Peak. The final push is physically and mentally demanding, but the reward is beyond words. Reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, as the sun rises, is a moment of pure triumph. Celebrate your achievement with photos and take in the breathtaking views before beginning the descent to Mweka Camp. The descent is much quicker, and you’ll be welcomed with warm food and the chance to rest after an exhilarating day.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft)

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft)

  • Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
  • Estimated Time: 5-6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Habitat: Rain Forest

On your final day, you’ll descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro certificates—a proud symbol of your accomplishment. After bidding farewell to your guides and porters, who have been instrumental in your success, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for a much-deserved celebration. Enjoy the evening reminiscing about the adventure with fellow trekkers.

Day 8: Departure
  • Meals: Breakfast

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure. Leave with unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure and the satisfaction of having conquered one of the world’s most iconic peaks.

Book This Tour

Book This Tour

Join us for the 45° Kili Challenge, where you’ll make your 45th year unforgettable by summiting the highest peak in Africa. This adventure is more than a climb. It’s a transformative journey that will leave you with memories and a sense of accomplishment that will last a lifetime