Mount Kilimanjaro
6 days— Machame Route
From
$1900 USD
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Safari summary
The Machame route, also known as the Whisky Route is one of the most scenic and recommended routes on Kilimanjaro. This popular route with paths through magnificent forests to gain a ridge leading through the moorland zones to the Shira Plateau. It then traverses beneath the glaciated precipices of the Southern Ice fields to join the Barafu Route to the summit. Because it can be done over longer periods and the incline is more manageable it has a much higher success rate of summit.
Duration: 6 or 7 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: High
About this tour
| Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
| Main focus | None | |
| Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
| Best months | January, February, March, May, June, August, September, November, December | |
| Countries | ||
| Parks |
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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
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
After breakfast and a drive to Machame Gate (1,800m), you’ll complete registration and meet your mountain team. The trail starts through lush rainforest, alive with birds, monkeys, and ancient trees. After 5–7 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Machame Camp (3,000m). Enjoy dinner as mist drifts through the trees and settle in for your first night on the mountain.
Overnight:Machame Camp
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Leave the forest behind and enter the heath and moorland zone. The trail climbs steeply, offering your first views of Kibo Peak if the weather is clear. Hike through tall grasses, giant heathers, and volcanic rock formations. After about 4–6 hours, you’ll reach Shira Camp (3,840m), located on a high plateau with wide views of the mountain and valleys below.
Overnight: Shira Camp
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
Today is important for acclimatization. You’ll climb steadily to the Lava Tower (4,630m), a huge volcanic rock formation, where you’ll have lunch and enjoy mountain views. Then, descend to Barranco Camp (3,976m). This hike follows the “climb high, sleep low” rule, helping your body adjust. The 6–8 hour trek ends at a dramatic camp set beneath the towering Barranco Wall.
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Barranco Camp to
Start by tackling the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb with incredible views. From the top, traverse through alpine desert landscapes past Karanga Camp, where you’ll stop for lunch. Continue to Barafu Camp (4,673m), your base for the summit attempt. Arrive in the afternoon, rest, and have an early dinner, as you’ll wake before midnight for the final climb.
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Barafu Camp-Uhuru Peak-Mweka Camp
Wake at midnight for your summit attempt under a starlit sky. Trek through cold, rocky switchbacks to Stella Point (5,756m) and continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point in Africa. Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views and take photos at the summit. After celebrating, descend to Barafu Camp for a rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,068m) for a well-earned night’s sleep.
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest. The trail is often muddy, but it’s filled with fresh air and birdlife. After 3–4 hours, you’ll arrive at Mweka Gate (1,640m). Here you’ll receive your climbing certificate, say farewell to your mountain crew, and transfer back to your hotel to relax and celebrate your achievement.
Overnight:Salinelo Hotel
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