Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Safari summary

The starting point of the route, located on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, Machame Gate will lead you to the top of Kilimanjaro along the exciting footpath, which starts at the tropical forest, then runs through all the climate zones, and finishes with the Arctic desert in the summit area.

Camps along the trek are favorably located for a smooth and gradual acclimatization transition process. On the 3rd day, Machame Route converges with Lemosho and Umbwe at Barranco camp.

You can choose between a six or seven-day climb. The latter is highly preferred for better acclimatization transition.

General Expectations:

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It typically takes 6 to 7 days to complete and offers a good balance of challenge, acclimatization, and stunning landscapes. Here’s what to expect:

Scenic Diversity
The Machame Route offers breathtaking scenery, passing through multiple ecological zones:

Rainforest Zone (Day 1-2): Lush greenery, towering trees, and possible encounters with wildlife like colobus monkeys.
Moorland Zone (Day 2-3): Open landscapes with giant lobelias and senecios.
Alpine Desert (Day 4-5): Harsh, rocky terrain with extreme temperature variations.
Arctic Zone (Day 6-7): Glacier-covered summit area with freezing conditions and breathtaking views.
Challenging Trekking Terrain
The route is steeper than some alternatives, requiring good fitness.
Barranco Wall: A famous steep rock scramble on Day 4, but no technical climbing is required.
Summit Night: A tough overnight trek starting around midnight to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise.
Better Acclimatization
The “trek high, sleep low” profile improves altitude acclimatization, increasing summit success rates.
Average success rate is around 85% for the 7-day route.
Camping Experience
Unlike the Marangu Route, Machame does not have huts—camping is mandatory.
Porters set up tents and carry supplies, while cooks prepare warm meals.
Weather Variability
Be prepared for rain in the forest, strong winds at high altitudes, and freezing temperatures near the summit.
Dress in layers to adjust to the changing climate.
Who Should Choose Machame?
Trekkers with some hiking experience and good fitness.
Those looking for stunning scenery and a more adventurous trek.
Climbers who want a higher chance of summit success compared to shorter routes.

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
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas