Machame Route – “Whiskey Route”
Known as the “Whiskey Route”, the Machame Route is the most popular path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro—and for good reason. It offers diverse scenery, excellent acclimatization, and a rewarding trekking experience. Starting from the lush rainforest, it takes you through dramatic ridges, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights (trekking)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Highest Elevation: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
Starting Point: Machame Gate
Route Type: Scenic, Camping Route
Success Rate: High with 7-day option
Route Highlights
Lush rainforest trail on day one
Shira Plateau with wide-open views of the summit
Steep climb through Barranco Wall
High-altitude desert landscape at Lava Tower
Sunrise summit attempt from Barafu Camp
Full-service camping with experienced mountain crew
🗓️ Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)
Trek through dense rainforest, rich in flora and fauna. Gradual ascent to Machame Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Machame Camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,850m)
Leave the forest and climb up a ridge into moorland with stunning views.
⛺ Overnight at Shira Camp.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,640m)
A key acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower, then descend to Barranco Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Climb the impressive Barranco Wall and trek through alpine terrain.
⛺ Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Short trek to high camp. Early dinner and rest before summit push.
⛺ Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Start at midnight for the summit attempt. Reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final descent through forest to the gate. Celebrate with certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
End of climb.
✅ What’s Included
All park fees and camping permits
Professional mountain guides, porters & cook
Tents, sleeping pads, and mess tent
All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Pre/post climb airport transfers
Emergency oxygen & daily health checks
Kilimanjaro climbing certificate
❌ What’s Not Included
Flights & Tanzania visa
Sleeping bags & personal trekking gear
Tips for guides and porters (highly encouraged)
Accommodation before and after the climb (can be arranged)
Travel insurance