Itinerary
Overview
Ultimate Adventure to the Roof of Africa
The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This scenic trek offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, with plenty of opportunities for acclimatization along the way. The Machame Route is ideal for moderately experienced trekkers seeking a more adventurous climb, thanks to its steeper and more challenging ascent compared to the Marangu Route.
With a 7-day itinerary, this route provides an excellent balance between challenge and acclimatization, increasing the likelihood of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Along the way, you will camp at various altitude zones, allowing your body to adjust to the elevation, making the Machame Route one of the best choices for a successful summit.
The Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trek is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a scenic yet challenging climb to the summit of Africa’s highest peak. With a carefully paced 7-day itinerary, this route ensures proper acclimatization and maximizes your chances of a successful summit, all while providing stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience a variety of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to volcanic rock and alpine desert.
- Climb High, Sleep Low: Designed to maximize acclimatization by ascending to higher altitudes during the day and descending to sleep at lower elevations.
- Challenging Trek: Steeper trails provide a thrilling adventure for more seasoned trekkers.
- Spectacular Views: Stunning views of Kibo Peak, Mount Meru, and the surrounding African plains.
- Summit Success: A longer duration offers greater opportunities for acclimatization, increasing summit success rates.
- Camping Experience: Sleep under the stars with full camping support, including tents, meals, and guides.
- Hiking & Trekking: Daily guided hikes through diverse ecosystems of Kilimanjaro
- Wildlife Viewing: Possibility to encounter animals in the montane forests
- Photography: Stunning photo opportunities of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, volcanic formations, and diverse landscapes
- Summit Attempt: Overnight ascent to the Uhuru Peak for a breathtaking sunrise
- Cultural Experience: Interact with local guides and porters, learn about Tanzanian culture and nature
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Rest and prepare for the trek, with a briefing by your mountain guide in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Start your journey with a drive to Machame Gate for registration. Begin your hike through the lush rainforest, enjoying the vibrant vegetation and wildlife, before reaching Machame Camp, located at the edge of the rainforest zone.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
The trail continues up a steep ascent, transitioning from dense rainforest to moorland. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Meru to the east and Kibo Peak to the northwest before reaching Shira Camp on the Shira Plateau.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Today’s trek involves an acclimatization hike up to Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation at 4,630m. Afterward, descend to Barranco Camp to rest, following the principle of "climb high, sleep low" to aid acclimatization.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The day begins with a challenging but rewarding climb up the Great Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that offers incredible views. Once at the top, the trail undulates through valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp, where you'll stop for the night.
Elevation: 3,950m to 4,200m (12,960ft to 13,780ft)
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Continue through the barren alpine desert, crossing several valleys as you head toward Barafu Camp. Upon arrival, rest and prepare for your summit attempt, which begins at midnight.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Wake up at midnight for tea and snacks, then begin your summit push to Uhuru Peak. Trek through the night, ascending the rocky scree to Stella Point, then continue to the summit at Uhuru Peak. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha
On your final day, trek down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. After signing out of the park, you'll be transferred back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest and celebration.
Optional Add-On: Extend your adventure with a safari to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or a beach getaway to Zanzibar.
What's Included?
What's Excluded?
Rates
Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently
