Kilimanjaro Trekking Machame Route

Take the scenic Machame Route to the Roof of Africa. This popular trek combines breathtaking landscapes and a high success rate, ideal for adventurous climbers.

Overview

The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Over 8 days, you’ll ascend through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the arctic landscapes of Uhuru Peak at 5,895m.

This route is perfect for trekkers seeking a challenge with excellent acclimatization opportunities. Your journey is supported by an experienced mountain crew, ensuring safety and comfort every step of the way.

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Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport – Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your driver will greet you and transfer you to Moshi, the gateway to Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing and equipment check.
Overnight: Rindline Hotel, Moshi.

Day 2: Moshi to Machame Camp (3,000m)

After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate (about 1 hour) to register and begin your trek. The trail winds gently uphill through dense rainforest, alive with birdlife and perhaps the occasional colobus monkey.
Overnight: Machame Camp.
Hiking time: 5–7 hours.

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,766m)

Leave the rainforest behind as you climb into moorland, passing giant heather and rocky outcrops. If time allows, take a short hike to explore Shira Caves.
Overnight: Shira Camp.
Hiking time: 4–6 hours.

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,983m)

Trek across high alpine desert toward Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending into Barranco Valley. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps your body acclimatize.
Overnight: Barranco Camp.
Hiking time: 6–8 hours.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp (4,600m)

Tackle the exhilarating Barranco Wall, a steep scramble that rewards you with sweeping views. Descend briefly into Karanga Valley for lunch before continuing to Barafu Camp.
Overnight: Barafu Camp.
Hiking time: 7–8 hours.

Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Begin your summit push at midnight, ascending through scree to Stella Point (5,730m) and onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the breathtaking sunrise, descend to Barafu for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp.
Overnight: Mweka Camp.
Hiking time: 6–8 hours up, 5–7 hours down.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Moshi (850m)

Enjoy a gentle 4–5 hour descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory dinner.
Overnight: Rindline Hotel, Moshi.

Day 8: Moshi – Kilimanjaro Airport or Safari Extension

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home or begin your safari adventure.

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What’s Included

  • Kilimanjaro trek as per itinerary.

  • Professional English-speaking guide, cook, and porters.

  • Two nights’ accommodation in Moshi.

  • Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats, chairs, and tables.

  • All meals during the trek.

  • All park fees and permits.

  • Airport transfers and transport to trailheads.

What’s Excluded

  • Sleeping bag (available for hire).

  • International and domestic flights.

  • Tips for mountain crew.

  • Travel insurance and visa fees.

  • Alcoholic and soft drinks.

  • Personal spending and souvenirs.

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