The Machame Route, often referred to as “the Whiskey Route,” is the second most popular trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a diverse range of stunning views, landscapes, and experiences. Starting at Machame Gate on the southern slope of the mountain, the path takes you on an exhilarating journey through various climate zones. You’ll begin in the lush tropical rainforest and gradually ascend through different ecosystems, ultimately reaching the Arctic desert at the summit.

The route’s camps are strategically located to ensure a smooth and gradual acclimatization process. On the third day, the Machame Route intersects with the Lemosho and Umbwe routes at Barranco Camp.

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, your guide will meet with you to provide a briefing about the trek and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear for the climb.

Day 1 – Machame Gate (1800m) to Machame Camp (2835m)
Distance covered: 11 km
Approximate time taken: 7 hours
Habitat: Montane forest
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel around 8:00 am and transferred to Machame Gate. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush coffee and banana plantations cultivated by the Chagga people. Upon arrival at Machame Gate, you’ll complete park formalities before starting your climb. The trek today takes you through the tropical rainforest to Machame Camp (2835m). You’ll stop for a picnic lunch during the hike. Overnight at Machame Camp.

Day 2 – Machame Camp (2835m) to Shira Cave Camp (3750m)
Distance covered: 5 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin the hike at 8:00 am. The first hour takes you through the forest, then you’ll move onto the moorland zone with a gentler climb. A short break and snack will be taken, then you’ll continue up a rocky ridge onto the Shira Plateau. This section offers excellent views, including the Western Breach glacier. Overnight at Shira Cave Camp (3750m).

Day 3 – Shira Cave Camp (3750m) to Barranco Camp (3900m)
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today, we aim for acclimatization by hiking to a higher altitude before descending again. You’ll trek through the alpine desert to Lava Tower (4600m), then descend to Barranco Camp (3900m). This descent, taking about 3 hours, offers stunning views of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall. The campsite is nestled in a valley below the Barranco Wall, perfect for an unforgettable sunset. Overnight at Barranco Camp.

Day 4 – Barranco Camp (3900m) to Karanga Camp (4000m)
Distance covered: 5 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you’ll tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy great views of the surroundings. From there, continue towards Karanga Camp (4000m), where you’ll stop for lunch. Afterward, spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing. The trek today is relatively short but offers excellent opportunities to prepare for the final push to the summit. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Day 5 – Karanga Camp (4000m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

The day begins with a short trek to Barafu Camp (4640m), which will be your base for the summit attempt. The path takes you through the alpine desert, and you’ll begin to feel the altitude as you approach Barafu Camp. The camp is located near the summit route, where you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent. Dinner will be served early, and you’ll be advised to rest before starting the summit trek. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Day 6 – Barafu Camp (4640m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) then down to Millennium Camp (3950m)
Distance covered: 15 km
Approximate time taken: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Glacier/Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

You’ll begin the summit push around midnight. After a light snack and tea, you’ll climb the scree slope for about 4 to 5 hours to Stella Point (5756m). From there, it’s another hour to Uhuru Peak (5895m), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and Africa below. After a brief celebration and photo opportunity, you’ll begin your descent back to Barafu Camp for lunch and a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3950m) for a well-deserved overnight rest.

Day 7 – Millennium Camp (3950m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
Distance covered: 14 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Moorland/Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included

On the final day, you’ll descend through the moorland and rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your certificates of completion. After completing the park formalities, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel for a celebratory shower and rest. It’s time to relax and reflect on your incredible achievement.

End of Tour

Afterward, you can continue your adventure with a safari to one of Tanzania’s premier wildlife parks, such as Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park, or transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight.