Mount Kilimanjaro
7 days— Machame Route
From
$2100 USD
pp
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 | All months | |
Countries | ||
Parks |
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Fine details
Safari highlights
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- All drinks
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Hot air balloons
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Laundry
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Spa treatments
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Your journey begins at Machame Gate (1,800m), where you’ll register and meet your team. The first part of the trek takes you through a dense rainforest full of birds, monkeys, and towering trees. After 5–7 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Machame Camp (3,000m), a peaceful site surrounded by lush vegetation. Enjoy a hearty meal and settle in for a restful night.
Overnight: Machame Camp
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Today, you’ll hike through the heath and moorland zones. The trail climbs steadily, with the first views of Kibo Peak often appearing through breaks in the clouds. As you ascend, the vegetation thins and gives way to grasslands and volcanic rocks. After about 4–6 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Shira Camp (3,840m), located on a high plateau with wide views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
Overnight: Shira Camp
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
This is an acclimatization day, so you’ll climb higher, then descend to help your body adjust to the altitude. The hike takes you to the Lava Tower (4,630m), where you’ll have lunch and take in the incredible views. Afterward, descend to Barranco Camp (3,976m), where you’ll sleep beneath the towering Barranco Wall. This 6–8 hour trek allows you to acclimatize while enjoying unique landscapes along the way.
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Today’s hike begins with the climb up the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding scramble that gives you stunning panoramic views. Once at the top, the trail levels off and continues through rocky terrain. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Karanga Camp (4,035m), where you can relax and enjoy a well-earned dinner in the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight: Karanga Camp
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
This is the final stretch before summit night. The trail ascends gradually through alpine desert, with views of both Kibo Peak and Mawenzi Peak. After about 4–5 hours, you’ll arrive at Barafu Camp (4,673m), your base for the summit attempt. Rest and hydrate in the afternoon, and prepare for the upcoming climb. Enjoy an early dinner and get some rest, as you’ll be waking in the middle of the night to begin your ascent.
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
At midnight, you’ll start the final push for the summit. The trail is steep and rocky as you ascend to Stella Point (5,756m), then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. The sunrise from the summit is absolutely breathtaking, and you’ll have time to take photos and celebrate before descending. Afterward, you’ll retrace your steps to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,068m) to rest for the night.
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
On the final day, you’ll descend through the rainforest, retracing your steps to Mweka Gate (1,640m). The hike takes 3–4 hours, and you’ll be able to reflect on your journey through lush landscapes, spotting monkeys and vibrant birdlife along the way. Once at the gate, you’ll collect your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement before heading back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight: Salinelo Hotel
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