Overview
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and rewarding paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its rich variety of landscapes, this 6-day trek (plus arrival and departure days) takes you from lush rainforest to volcanic ridges, alpine desert, and finally, the glaciers of Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Though physically demanding, this route offers excellent acclimatization and a high summit success rate—perfect for adventurous hikers seeking a real challenge. Along the way, you’ll camp at Machame, Shira, Barranco, and Barafu before your final ascent to the roof of Africa.
Itinerary
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and rewarding paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its rich variety of landscapes, this 6-day trek (plus arrival and departure days) takes you from lush rainforest to volcanic ridges, alpine desert, and finally, the glaciers of Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Though physically demanding, this route offers excellent acclimatization and a high summit success rate—perfect for adventurous hikers seeking a real challenge. Along the way, you’ll camp at Machame, Shira, Barranco, and Barafu before your final ascent to the roof of Africa.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to Arusha Coffee Lodge. Settle into the peaceful surroundings of this elegant retreat, complete with gardens, coffee plantations, and modern comforts. Enjoy a relaxing evening, hot showers, and a hearty dinner as you prepare for your adventure.
Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate, where permits are arranged and your mountain crew is introduced. Begin trekking through lush tropical rainforest, alive with birdlife, monkeys, and towering trees. The climb is steady as you make your way to Machame Camp, where tents and a hot dinner await under the starlit sky.
Elevation Gain: ~1,200m
Accommodation: Machame Camp
Leave the forest behind and enter the high moorlands. The landscape shifts to volcanic ridges and rocky terrain, with crisp air and wide-open views. Arrive at Shira Camp, where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic look at Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and neighboring Mount Meru.
Elevation Gain: ~800m
Accommodation: Shira Camp
This is a key acclimatization day. Ascend gradually to Lava Tower (4,650m), pausing for lunch beside the dramatic “Shark’s Tooth” formation. Afterward, descend to Barranco Camp, a spectacular campsite set beneath towering cliffs and the Barranco Wall. This “climb high, sleep low” approach greatly boosts your summit chances.
Elevation: +800m up, -700m down
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Begin with the thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical ascent where your guides will assist every step. From the top, trek across ridges and valleys before reaching Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the challenge ahead—the summit attempt begins at midnight.
Elevation Gain: ~700m
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Your summit day begins before dawn, with headlamps lighting the steep switchbacks. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) as the horizon begins to glow, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and photos at the summit, descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for a final night on the mountain.
Elevation: +1,195m up, -2,800m down
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro Certificate of Achievement. After farewells to your mountain crew, transfer back to Arusha Coffee Lodge for hot showers, dinner, and well-earned relaxation.
Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge
After breakfast, your driver transfers you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. For guests extending their stay with a safari or Zanzibar beach holiday, we’ll assist in arranging seamless connections.
Costings
Includes
- Professional Team: Certified guides, assistant guides, porters, and cook
- Accommodation: 2 nights at Arusha Coffee Lodge (before & after trek), mountain camps with full camping gear
- Park Fees & Permits: Entry, camping, rescue fees, and all government taxes/VAT
- Meals & Water: Freshly prepared full-board meals and safe drinking water throughout the trek
- Safety Equipment: Oxygen cylinder, first aid kit, pulse oximeter, and hyperbaric chamber
- Camping Gear: Tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, mess tent, private toilet tents, hot water bottles
- Transport: Airport transfers and transport to/from trailheads
- Summit Certificate: Commemorative certificate upon successful climb
- Porterage: Carrying of personal luggage (within weight limits)
Excludes
- International flights & visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips & personal expenses
- Premium beverages
- Optional activities not in itinerary