Machame Scenic Route

6 days—Ideal for Fit Trekkers with Time to Acclimatize

$1995-3800 USD

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Safari summary

Machame Route is the “Whiskey” route. It is the second most popular and one of the most scenic routes on the mountain. Our six to seven-day climb passes through some of Kilimanjaro’s most famous landscapes.
It’s an excellent route to the summit and one with very high success rates. The luxury climb offers 3m x 3m dome tents, thick mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows, and a thermal liner for a comfortable night’s sleep, a separate loo tent, high-quality food, equipment and experienced English-speaking guides.
The climb starts at Machame gate, ascending through Afro-montane Forest and then into the heath zone and on to the edge of the remnants of the Shira volcano. The route circumnavigates the main peak, Kibo, passing some spectacular features such as giant steps and glacial valleys.
The final night-time ascent is from Barafu Camp, reaching Uhuru Peak via Stella Point. The descent is via the Mweka route. All our climbs provide a large staff including chief guide, an assistant guide, cook, and porters.

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
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
All drinks
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
Laundry
Park fees
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Machame Gate Hike to Machame Camp

Kilimanjaro

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a drive to Machame Gate, about 2.5 hours away. After registration and a passport check, enjoy a fresh lunch as your team prepares the gear. Then the trek starts-heading through lush rainforest toward Machame Camp. It’s a big first day, possibly muddy, but full of energy and sights like colobus monkeys. You’ll be well-fed, supported, and fully cared for every step of the way.

Machame Camp

Machame Camp Hike to Shira Camp

Kilimanjaro

Today’s trek takes you steadily uphill along the slopes of the Shira volcano. As you climb, the dense forest gives way to open moorland with strange, high-altitude plants and giant heathers. The first few hours are a bit steep, but then the trail eases, offering sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s dramatic Western Breach-weather permitting. You'll stop for a scenic picnic lunch before reaching Shira One Camp by mid-afternoon.

Shira Camp

Shira Camp- Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro

Today’s trek lasts about six to seven hours, taking you through Kilimanjaro’s striking alpine desert. You'll pass otherworldly plants like giant lobelias and senecios as you climb toward Lava Tower (3900m), where you can pause for lunch and feel the altitude shift. After that, you’ll descend into the stunning Barranco Valley-steep, scenic, and a welcome break from two days of climbing. Camp will be waiting at 4000m.

Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro

You’ll start early today to be among the first to climb the Barranco Wall-giving you a quieter, more personal experience on the rocks. Though it looks intimidating, most find it surprisingly doable, with great support from your guide. If you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy breakfast at the top with an incredible view. After crossing glacier valleys, you’ll reach Barafu Camp for lunch, rest, and prep before tomorrow’s summit push.

Barafu Camp

Ascent To Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp

Kilimanjaro

You'll start your final climb from Barafu Camp at night, heading for Kilimanjaro’s highest point-Uhuru Peak. The path isn't technical, but the altitude makes every step feel heavier, so each pair of climbers is supported by a personal guide. After celebrating at the summit, you may visit a nearby glacier before resting at Barafu. Then, begin your descent to Mweka Camp-stay focused, as most injuries happen on the way down.

Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp-Mweka Gate-Hotel

Kilimanjaro

This morning you will have the chance of taking photographs with the crew before setting off down the mountain to Mweka Gate, where the climb finishes. It’s a downhill walk-through beautiful forest which takes about five hours. Your vehicle will be waiting for you at Mweka, and once you have thanked your porters, camp crew and guides, and said your goodbyes, you will be driven back to Arusha.

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