Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro — Machame Route
7 Days Machame Route Trek
overview
The Machame Route, commonly known as the 'Whiskey Route', is one of the most popular and scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbers stay in tents throughout the trek for a true wilderness experience, passing the spectacular Shira Plateau and the iconic Lava Tower along a series of ridges and valleys that provide excellent acclimatization.
Highlights
- One of Kilimanjaro's most popular routes — the 'Whiskey Route'
- Excellent acclimatization profile
- Pass the famous Lava Tower
- Climb the iconic Barranco Wall
- Stunning views of Kibo Peak and glaciers
- Diverse ecosystems from rainforest to alpine desert
- High summit success rate
- Reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa
Day-by-day
Day 1
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
After a short drive from Arusha, arrive at Machame Gate where registration formalities are completed before starting your trek. The trail winds through the lush rainforest zone, surrounded by giant trees, moss-covered vegetation, and rich birdlife. Hiking time: 5–7 hours. Overnight: Machame Camp, 2,850 m (9,350 ft). Habitat: rainforest.
Day 2
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
After breakfast, continue climbing through the moorland zone while enjoying spectacular views of Kibo Peak. The trail becomes steeper as you leave the forest behind and enter open terrain. Hiking time: 4–6 hours. Overnight: Shira Camp, 3,810 m (12,500 ft). Habitat: moorland.
Day 3
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Today follows the important 'climb high, sleep low' principle for acclimatization. Hike towards the famous Lava Tower, where you will stop for lunch and enjoy stunning mountain scenery. Afterward, descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley. Hiking time: 6–8 hours. Overnight: Barranco Camp, 3,976 m (13,044 ft). Habitat: alpine desert.
Day 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, one of the most exciting sections of the Machame Route. Continue across ridges and valleys while enjoying incredible views of Kilimanjaro's glaciers. If conditions allow, enjoy an additional acclimatization walk. Hiking time: 4–5 hours. Overnight: Karanga Camp, 3,995 m (13,106 ft).
Day 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Continue your trek towards Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The route passes through rocky alpine terrain with breathtaking views of the mountain. After an early dinner, rest for a few hours before preparing for the midnight summit climb. Hiking time: 3–4 hours. Overnight: Barafu Camp, 4,673 m (15,331 ft).
Day 6
Summit Day & Mweka Camp
Around midnight, begin your ascent toward Stella Point and then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 m (19,341 ft). After celebrating your achievement and taking photos at the summit, descend back to Barafu Camp before continuing down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain. Hiking time: 12–16 hours. Overnight: Mweka Camp, 3,100 m (10,500 ft).
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and say farewell to your mountain crew before returning to Arusha. Celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro adventure with a relaxing evening back in town. Hiking time: 3–5 hours.
Glimpses
What's included
- All transfers
- Accommodation before and after the climb
- All trekking and park fees
- All meals while on the mountain (3 meals a day)
- Guides, porters and cook salaries
- Quality mess tents with table and chairs
- English-speaking mountain guide
- Sleeping bags
- Mineral drinking water
Not included
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Medical insurance cover
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcohol
- Items of a personal nature