Overview
The Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its steep and challenging terrain. The route offers stunning views of the mountain’s various landscapes, including dense rainforest, heath and moorland, and a rocky and barren lunar-like landscape. The climb usually takes around 6-7 days, depending on the itinerary and the climber’s fitness level.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you will meet your guide and have a pre-climb briefing.
Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (9,900ft)
After breakfast, you will be driven to the Machame Gate, where you will register and start your climb through the lush rainforest. The trail gets steeper as you approach Machame Camp, where you will set up your tents and spend the night.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (12,600ft)
After breakfast, you will continue your climb, passing through the heath and moorland zones. You will stop for lunch at the Shira Plateau before continuing on to Shira Camp, where you will spend the night
Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower (15,190ft) to Barranco Camp (13,044ft)
Today is a challenging day, as you climb to Lava Tower, a rocky outcrop at 15,190ft. After lunch, you will descend to Barranco Camp, where you will spend the night
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (13,106ft)
Today's climb will take you through the Barranco Wall, a steep and challenging section of the route. You will then continue on to Karanga Camp, where you will spend the night
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (15,331ft)
Today's climb takes you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the final summit ascent. You will rest and prepare for the summit climb the following day.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (10,065ft)
You will start your final ascent in the early hours of the morning, aiming to reach the summit at sunrise. After reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, you will descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (5,380ft)
After breakfast, you will descend to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates and celebrate your achievement. You will then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha
Day 9: Departure from Tanzania
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.