Package Overview
The Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the "Whiskey Route" due to its steeper climbs and varied terrain, this 7-day trek allows for excellent acclimatization and an unforgettable wilderness experience.Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights,Difficulty: Moderate to challenging,Accommodation: Camping only
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m),Distance: 11 km,Hiking Time: 5–7 hours,Vegetation Zone: Rainforest,After registration at Machame Gate, begin your trek through lush rainforest filled with exotic birds and monkeys. The trail is steep in parts but well-maintained.Overnight at Machame Camp
- Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp (3,750m),Distance: 5 km,Hiking Time: 4–6 hours,Vegetation Zone: Moorland,The trail climbs steeply through heath and moorland. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Shira Plateau and Mount Meru in the distance.,Overnight at Shira Cave Camp
- Day 3: Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,630m),Distance: 10 km,Hiking Time: 6–8 hours,Vegetation Zone: Alpine desert,Today is all about acclimatization. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to the altitude.,Overnight at Barranco Camp
- Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m),Distance: 6 km,Hiking Time: 4–5 hours,Vegetation Zone: Alpine desert,Begin the day with a fun scramble up the iconic Barranco Wall ("Breakfast Wall"). Then enjoy a scenic traverse through valleys and ridges toward Karanga Camp.,Overnight at Karanga Camp
- Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m),Distance: 4 km,Hiking Time: 3–4 hours,Vegetation Zone: Alpine desert,A short but steep climb leads you to Barafu Camp — your base for the summit. Get an early dinner and rest before the midnight climb.,Overnight at Barafu Camp
- Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Down to Mweka Camp (3,110m),Distance: 5 km up / 12 km down,Hiking Time: 6–8 hours to summit, 6–8 hours descent,Vegetation Zones: Arctic at summit, moorland on descent,Start your summit push at midnight. Trek past Stella Point to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking photos, descend to Barafu for a quick rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.Congratulations – You’ve reached the Roof of Africa!,Overnight at Mweka Camp
- Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m),Distance: 10 km,Hiking Time: 3–4 hours,Vegetation Zone: Rainforest,Trek through lush rainforest down to the gate. Receive your summit certificate and meet the vehicle for transfer to Moshi/Arusha.Transfer back to your hotel for a hot shower and celebration.
Inclusions
- All park fees and rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- All meals during the trek
- Tents and camping equipment
- Airport transfers
Exclusions
- Flights and visas
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal trekking gear
- Travel insurance
Price & Best Time
Starting Price: From $1,800 USD per person.
Best Seasons: January to early March, and June to October – when weather conditions are favorable and visibility is clear.