The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular trails. Over seven days, you’ll trek through lush rainforest, dramatic moorlands, and alpine desert, with breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall. This route offers excellent acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Each day brings new landscapes and challenges, culminating in a midnight summit push to the highest point in Africa. The Machame Route is perfect for adventurous hikers seeking a diverse and rewarding Kilimanjaro experience, with plenty of time to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the mountain’s natural beauty. The camaraderie among trekkers and guides makes this journey not just a physical challenge but a memorable social adventure as well.
From $2,150 per person (based on 2 people, low season).
Contact us for a personalized quote depending on group size and season.
After breakfast and a briefing in Moshi, drive to Machame Gate (1,800m) for registration. Begin your trek through lush rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail is often muddy and slippery, so trekking poles are recommended. After 5-7 hours of hiking, arrive at Machame Camp (3,000m) for your first night on the mountain. Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest in your tent, surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend into moorland, with stunning views of Kibo Peak and the Shira Plateau. The trail is steep in places but offers rewarding vistas. After 4-6 hours of trekking, reach Shira Camp (3,840m), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and a well-deserved meal. Acclimatization begins as you adjust to the higher altitude.
Today is an important acclimatization day. Trek east toward Lava Tower (4,630m), where you’ll have lunch and enjoy dramatic alpine scenery. Descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m) for the night. The climb high, sleep low approach helps your body adapt to the altitude. Barranco Camp is famous for its stunning views of the Barranco Wall and the southern glaciers of Kibo.
Begin the day with a scramble up the Barranco Wall, a highlight of the Machame Route. The trail then undulates through alpine desert, with breathtaking views of the mountain. After 4-5 hours, arrive at Karanga Camp (4,035m), where you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent. This shorter day aids acclimatization and allows for recovery before the summit push.
Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp (4,640m), the base camp for your summit attempt. The landscape is stark and windswept, with little vegetation. After an early dinner, rest and prepare your gear for the midnight summit push. The anticipation builds as you get ready for the most challenging part of the trek.
Begin your summit attempt around midnight, climbing by headlamp through scree and switchbacks. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement, take photos, and begin the descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for your final night on the mountain. This is a long, rewarding day—expect to trek for 12-15 hours in total.
After breakfast, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration. Reflect on your incredible achievement and the unforgettable memories made on Kilimanjaro’s Machame Route.
