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Machame Route

7 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

  • Wildlife safari
  • Day Trip
  • Trekking

From   -   $ 1,900

Route Overview

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route”, is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its diverse landscapes and gradual acclimatization profile, it offers trekkers a higher summit success rate compared to shorter routes. The 7-day itinerary allows for better altitude adaptation, increasing the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Route Specifications
  • Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
  • Distance: 62 km (38.5 miles)
  • Elevation Gain:From 1,800m (5,905ft) at Machame Gate to 5,895m (19,341ft) at Uhuru Peak
  • Difficulty Level:Moderate to challenging
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Starting Point: Machame Gate (1,800m / 5,905ft)
  • Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380ft)
Route Highlights
  • Scenic Diversity – Hike through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the glacier-capped summit.
  • Shira Plateau – Enjoy Expansive landscapes with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.
  • Barranco Wall – A thrilling but manageable climb, offering a sense of adventure.
  • Karanga Valley – A scenic resting point before the summit push.
  • Stunning Sunrises & Sunsets – Experience some of the most spectacular views at Shira Plateau and Barranco Camp.
  • Stella Point & Uhuru Peak – The rewarding ascent to the highest point in Africa!
Acclimatization Strategy

Proper acclimatization is crucial for summit success. The Machame Route follows the “ climb high, sleep low ” principle, allowing your body to adapt gradually.

Key Acclimatization Points:
  • Shira Plateau (4,630m / 15,190ft) – Reach high altitude before descending to Barranco Camp (3,976m / 13,044ft).
  • Gradual Ascent Profile – Ensures better oxygen adaptation compared to shorter routes.
  • Optional Extra Acclimatization Day – Available at Karanga Camp or Barranco Camp upon request.
General Tips
  • Pace Yourself:Walk slowly and steadily (“pole pole” in Swahili) to adapt to altitude
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily
  • Eat Well: Maintain a balanced diet for energy
  • Listen to Your Body: Watch for symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness) and notify your guide immediately

7-Day Machame Route Itinerary

01
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
  • Transfer to a hotel in Moshi for dinner & overnight stay.
  • Gear check & briefing by the mountain guide.
  • Overnight in Moshi (915m / 3,000ft).
02
Day 2: Machame Gate (1,800m) – Machame Camp (3,010m)
  • Elevation Gain: +1,210m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Experience: Walk through lush forest, chance to spot monkeys, and overnight camping.

03
Day 3: Machame Camp – Shira Camp 2 (3,840m)
  • Elevation Gain: +830m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland

Experience: Cross Shira Plateau with stunning views of Kibo Peak.

04
Day 4: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
  • Elevation Gain: +790m
  • Descent: -670m
  • Distance: 15 km
  • Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Experience:

  • Acclimatization day :hike to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp.
05
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
  • Elevation Gain: +75m
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Experience: Climb the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling but achievable ascent!

06
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
  • Elevation Gain: +605m
  • Distance: 4 km
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Arctic Zone

Experience: Rest before the midnight summit push.

07
Day 7: Summit Day! Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,090m)
  • Elevation Gain: +1,255m
  • Descent: -2,805m
  • Distance: 17 km
  • Hiking Time:12-14 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Experience:

  • Midnight trek to Uhuru Peak (Africa’s highest point!).
  • Witness breathtaking sunrise views.
  • Descend to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
08
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
  • Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m).
  • Transfer to Moshi for hot lunch, shower, and certificate ceremony.

Preparation & Logistics

Physical Preparation
  • Cardio Training: Running, cycling, and swimming for endurance
  • Strength Training: Squats, lunges, and step-ups to strengthen leg muscles.
  • Hiking Practice: Train with a loaded backpack on varied terrains.
Essential Gear
  • Clothing:
    • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms
    • Insulation: Fleece or down jacket
    • Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket & pants
    • Footwear:Well-broken-in hiking boots with ankle support.
    • Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, UV-protected sunglasses, and a headlamp.
  • Equipment:
    • Sleeping Bag:Rated for -10°C (14°F) or lower.
    • Daypack: 25-35L for essentials
    • Trekking Poles: To reduce strain on knees.
    • Hydration System: 3L+ water capacity (bottles or hydration bladder)
    • Personal Items: Sunscreen, lip balm, personal medications, first aid kit
Permits & Fees
  • Climbing Permits: Required and arranged by your tour operator (includes park fees, rescue fees, and camping fees).
Guides & Porters
  • Guides: Certified and experienced, ensuring safety and navigation.
  • Porters: Carry luggage, set up camp, and prepare meals. Fair wages & tipping recommended.
Best Time to Climb

Dry Seasons (Best Time to Climb)

  • January – Mid-March:Warm weather, clear skies.
  • June – October:Cooler but stable conditions.

Rainy Seasons (Challenging Conditions)

  • April – May:Heavy rains make trails muddy (not recommended).
  • November:Less intense rain but still wet.
Includes/Excludes
What’s Included
  • Private transport (airport/hotel to Kilimanjaro & back)
  • Park fees & climbing permits
  • Camping equipment (tent, mattress, sleeping bag)
  • Professional guide & porters
  • Meals & private cook (special diets available)
  • Rescue fees
  • Certificate of achievement
What’s Excluded
  • International flights
  • Additional accommodations before/after the climb
  • Personal items (gear, snacks, etc.)
  • Tips for guides & porters
  • Travel insurance
Customization Options
  • Private Climbs - Solo or private group treks.
  • Photography Packages - Capture professional summit moments.
  • Safari & Zanzibar Add-On - Extend your trip with a wildlife safari or beach relaxation.
Why Book With Us?
  • Expert Local Guides – Certified & experienced team.
  • High Summit Success Rate – 95%+ success rate with acclimatization strategies..
  • Safety First – Daily health checks & emergency plans.
  • Responsible Tourism - Ethical treatment of porters & eco-friendly policies.
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