Best Kilimanjaro Machame route

7 days—This best Kilimanjaro's Machame Route is approximately 62 km (37 miles) from gate to gate, with an elevation gain of about 16,000 to 17,000 feet.

$1300-3000 USD

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Safari summary

This Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey" route, is typically a 6-7 day trek, allowing better acclimatization for a safer and more successful ascent of Kilimanjaro. The trail offers stunning views, a reasonable challenge, and plenty of time to acclimate, making it a good choice for those who have a bit of extra time in their schedule. The Machame Route is a popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is known for its scenic views and challenging terrain.

How long does it take to complete the Machame Route?
The Machame Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It typically takes 6-7 days to complete the Machame Route, although some tour operators offer shorter or longer itineraries. The route covers approximately 62 kilometers (37 miles) and involves ascending to an altitude of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The duration of the climb can vary depending on the pace of the climbers, the weather conditions, and the level of acclimatization of the climbers. It is important to choose a reputable tour operator and to properly prepare physically and mentally for the climb.

What is the difficulty level of the Machame Route?
The Machame Route is considered a challenging trek, with steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and high altitude. However, it is also one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. To successfully complete the Machame Route, hikers should be in good physical condition and have some prior experience with high-altitude trekking. It is recommended that hikers take their time to acclimatize properly and follow a well-planned itinerary to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

The best Machame route success rate
The Machame Route on Mount Kilimanjaro typically has a success rate of around 85–90%, making it one of the most popular and successful routes to the summit. Its success can be attributed to its gradual ascent profile, allowing for better acclimatization, and the stunning scenery it offers. However, success also depends on factors like individual fitness, proper preparation, and weather conditions.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	Hiking \| trekking
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
Meals

What’s not included?

Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Kilimanjaro

Machame Gate (1,800 m/5,905 ft) to Machame Camp (3,000 m/9,840 ft) After breakfast and a final equipment check, drive to the Machame Gate. Start the trek through a lush rainforest and gradually ascend. Reach Machame Camp, set up tents, and spend the night.

Machame Camp

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Kilimanjaro

Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,840 m/12,600 ft) Continue the ascent through the rainforest, then into the moorland zone. Pass through Shira Plateau and reach Shira Camp. Acclimatization hike to Shira Cathedral or a nearby point for better acclimatization. Overnight at Shira Camp.

Shira Camp

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro

Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,950 m/12,960 ft) Trek to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. The descent helps with acclimatization and improves your chances of summiting. Reach Barranco Camp, set up tents, and spend the night.

Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995 m/13,106 ft) Begin with the challenging Barranco Wall climb. Traverse alpine desert terrain and descend to Karanga Valley. Reach Karanga Camp for the night.

Karanga Camp

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673 m/15,331 ft) Trek to Barafu Camp, the high camp for the summit push. The landscape transitions to a more barren and rocky environment. Rest and prepare for the summit attempt. Early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit climb.

Barafu Camp

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka

Kilimanjaro

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft) Start the summit attempt around midnight, ascending through the darkness. Reach Stella Point (5,752 m/18,871 ft) at the crater rim for sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp. Overnight at Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Kilimanjaro

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640 m/5,380 ft) Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your guides and porters. Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Celebratory dinner and a well-deserved rest.

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