Mount Kilimanjaro

7 days— Machame Route

From

$2100 USD

pp
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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 All months
Countries
Parks

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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YAScore: 82/100
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