6 Days Machame Route

The Machame route, nicknamed the “Whiskey” route, is known for being more challenging and pricier than the Marangu route. Despite its difficulty, it is one of the best options for scaling Kilimanjaro due to its effective acclimatization profile and reasonable cost.

This route is ideal for adventurous trekkers with some hiking or backpacking experience. It offers stunning and varied scenery, but its popularity means it can be crowded at times. The Machame route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends via the Mweka route. Along the way, climbers enjoy views of the expansive Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, a climb up the Great Barranco Wall, and a scenic traverse beneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field.

The trail is steeper and more physically demanding than the Marangu and Rongai routes in some sections but is generally easier overall. It provides excellent acclimatization with plenty of opportunities to “walk high, sleep low,” helping climbers adjust to the altitude more effectively.

The Machame route is a challenging trek through five distinct climatic zones, showcasing breathtaking landscapes throughout. It also allows for the pre-summit day to be split into two shorter hikes, ensuring climbers are well-rested before the final push to the summit. Due to its popularity, expect to encounter a significant number of fellow trekkers.

Itinerary

Day 0: Pre-Trek Briefing
If you’ve opted for the airport transfer, we will pick you up from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
Upon arrival, we will have a pre-trek briefing at your hotel. It’s recommended to arrive at least one day before the trek starts. During this time, we will review your gear, and if necessary, assist in renting any additional equipment.

Day 1: Hotel to Machame Camp
The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate takes about 45 minutes, passing through the village of Machame on the lower slopes of the mountain.
Once we depart the gate, we’ll hike through the rainforest on a winding trail up a ridge. The trail is often muddy and slippery at lower elevations, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. We’ll reach Machame Camp in the afternoon for a well-deserved rest.

  • Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3050m/9950ft
  • Distance: 11km/7mi
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Montane Forest
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
After breakfast, we’ll continue along an ascending path, crossing a valley via a steep rocky ridge. The trail turns west toward a river gorge, leading us to Shira Camp.

  • Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft
  • Distance: 5km/3mi
  • Walking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
We continue eastward from the Shira Plateau, passing a junction toward the peak of Kibo. Our route turns southeast toward the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth,” at 4650m/15,250ft. After the tower, we descend to Barranco Camp. This day helps with acclimatization, as we end up at a similar elevation to the start.

  • Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
  • Distance: 10km/6mi
  • Walking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Semi-desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
After breakfast, we tackle the steep Barranco Wall, reaching an elevation of 4250m/13,900ft. We descend into Karanga Valley (4050m/13,250ft) before ascending to Barafu Camp. At this point, you’ve completed the South Circuit, with magnificent views of the summit from various angles.

  • Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4700m/15,350ft
  • Distance: 9km/6mi
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
We begin our summit ascent early (between midnight and 2 am). We ascend through scree to Stella Point on the crater rim, where we take a brief rest and may enjoy a spectacular sunrise. For those who are faster hikers, the sunrise may be viewed from the summit. From Stella Point, we proceed to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, we descend to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch.

  • Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft (Summit)
  • Down to: 3090m/10,150ft (Mweka Camp)
  • Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
  • Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel
After breakfast, we descend to the Mweka Park Gate to collect your summit certificates. The lower elevations can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are typically enough, though keep rain gear and warmer clothing nearby.
A vehicle will be waiting at the gate to take you back to your hotel in Moshi.

  • Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
  • Distance: 10km/6mi
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Forest
  • Meals: Breakfast

Price Includes

  • Four-Season Sleeping Tents: Twin-sharing, waterproof mountain tents.
  • VAT (18%): Included in the package cost.
  • Rescue Fees: Covered as part of park fees.
  • Meals on the Mountain: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
  • Transfers: Round-trip from Moshi hotel to mountain gate.
  • Nutritious Food: Fresh, healthy meals prepared by mountain chefs.
  • Professional Guides: Experienced, licensed guides for a safe climb.
  • Purified Drinking Water: Provided daily.
  • Sleeping Mattress: Comfortable mats for restful sleep.
  • Conservation Fees: Included in park fees.
  • Mess Tents: Dining tents with tables and chairs.
  • Summit Certificate: Awarded to all who reach Stella Point or Uhuru Peak.
  • Camping Fees: Included in park fees.
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder: For high-altitude safety.
  • Staff Salaries and Fees: Fair wages and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks.
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Price not Includes

  • Alcoholic and Bottled Beverages: Not included.
  • Online Payment Surcharge: 5% on advance and balance payments.
  • Tanzania Visa: To be arranged by the traveler.
  • Travel Insurance: Not provided.
  • Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, and other personal costs.
  • Flights: International and domestic airfare.
  • Tips and Gratuities: For guides, porters, and staff.
  • Hotel Accommodation: Available as an optional add-on.
  • Personal Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags, boots, and clothing (available for rent).
  • Unlisted Meals: Any meals not specified in the itinerary.
  • Optional Transfers: Available upon request.