Machame Route on Kilimanjaro

7 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climbing

$1900-2400 USD

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Safari summary

The Machame Route on Kilimanjaro, often referred to as the "Whiskey" route, is one of the most scenic and popular paths to the summit. This route, usually completed in 7 days, provides a diverse range of landscapes and a challenging but rewarding trek.
Unlike the Marangu Route, there are no sleeping huts along the Machame Route; instead, trekkers camp in tents at designated campsites. This route offers a more rugged and adventurous experience.
The Machame Route begins at Machame Gate and ascends through the lush rainforest to Shira Plateau, then traverses the Barranco Wall and continues to Barafu Camp. The summit is attempted from Barafu Camp, with a final push to Uhuru Peak during the early morning hours.
This route allows for better acclimatization due to its longer itinerary and "climb high, sleep low" approach. Climbers share meals in mess tents, fostering a communal and supportive atmosphere.
The Machame Route is ideal for those seeking a more challenging and scenic trek to Kilimanjaro’s summit.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
Airport transfers
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
All drinks
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Hotel to Machame Camp

Kilimanjaro

The drive from Moshi to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes about 50 minutes.The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. We now leave the park gate and walk through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. Lower down, the trail can be muddy and slippery.We continue a short distance until we reach the Machame Camp. Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft Distance: 11 km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Meals Plan: Full board

camping

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, we leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the little valley walking along a steep rocky ridge, covered with heather, until the ridge ends. The route now turns west onto a river gorge. Time for rest, dinner, and overnight at the Shira campsite. Elevation (ft): 9,400ft to 12,500ft Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Moorland Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

camping

Shira Camp to Lava Tower to

Kilimanjaro

 From the Shira Plateau,we continue to the east up a ridge passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo.Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft.Here we rest enjoy dinner and overnight.This day is very important for acclimatization. Elevation (ft): 12,500ft to 13,000ft Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

camping

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, we leave Barranco to a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall to Karanga Valley campsite then we leave Karanga and continue up to the Barafu Hut.At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles.Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 15,000ft Distance: 9km Hiking Time: 8-10 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

camping

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro

We continue up to the Barafu Camp. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft Distance: 4km/2mi Climbing Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

camping

Barafu Camp -Summit to Mweka Camp

Kilimanjaro

This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit.From the summit we begin our descent by continuing straight down to the Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3090m/10,150ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

camping

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hote

Kilimanjaro

After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft Distance: 10km/6mi Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Forest Meals: Breakfast

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