The Machame route, also known as the Whisky Route is one of the most scenic and recommended routes on Kilimanjaro. This popular route with paths through magnificent forests to gain a ridge leading through the moorland zones to the Shira Plateau. It then traverses beneath the glaciated precipices of the Southern Ice fields to join the Barafu Route to the summit. Because it can be done over longer periods and the incline is more manageable it has a much higher success rate of summit
Why Choose Machame?
Breathtaking Landscapes : From lush rainforests to dramatic ridgelines, alpine deserts, and the icy summit of Uhuru Peak – every day is a new terrain.
High Success Rate: With a longer and more gradual ascent, Machame allows better acclimatization, giving you a higher chance of reaching the top.
Adventure Meets Comfort: Experience the thrill of camping under the stars while our expert guides and porters handle the logistics and ensure your safety.
7 Days of Unforgettable Moments: Ideal for adventurous souls seeking a scenic and rewarding journey up Kilimanjaro
An exciting day as our adventure begins. After breakfast we transfer 1 hour from Moshi to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We pass the village of Machame on the lowers slopes of the mountain. After completing the necessary registration we set out on the first stage of the trek. The trail winds through rainforest and could be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. We continue trekking until we reach Machame Camp.
Overnight Machame Camp (breakfast – lunch – dinner)
From Machame camp your hike takes you to Shira Camp. You will notice that the first section is relatively steep and altitude is gained rapidly. A picnic lunch is provided on trail today. Today you will pass through a zone known as the heath zone where attractive Helichrysum and lobelia plants become apparent. Enjoy the sight of various geologic features that can be seen today from lava tubes to glacial valleys.
Overnight Shira Camp (breakfast – lunch – dinner)
Today is the first of our acclimatization treks. From the Shira Plateau we continue trekking up a ridge on semi-desert terrain, passing the junction which leads to the peak of Kibo. En-route we pass a lava tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” and the impressive Arrow Glacier which stands at an altitude of 4876m. We continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 3962m. Here we rest, enjoy dinner and overnight. Although we end the day around the same altitude as when we started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
Overnight Barranco Camp (breakfast – lunch – dinner)
Today is the second of our acclimatization treks. After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge through alpine desert passing the Barranco Wall. Our destination is the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day and the afternoon is free to relax and adjust to the altitude.
Overnight Karanga Camp (breakfast – lunch – dinner)
We set off from Karanga past the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. From there we continue climbing through alpine desert to Barafu Hut. It can be slow-going and cold due to the high altitude. On arrival at Barafu, we have completed the South Circuit, which offers magnificent views of the summit from many different angles. In the distance the horizon is punctuated by the magnificent peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. The afternoon is free to rest ready for tonight’s ascent to the summit.
Overnight Barafu/ High Camp (breakfast – lunch – dinner)
Our final ascent is at night with head torches at the ready. We set off between midnight and 2.00am and follow a slow zigzagging climb to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. We then continue through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging section of the whole trek. At Stella Point (5669m) we stop for a short rest and (weather permitting) will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. From Stella Point, we may encounter snow on the remaining one hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak (5895m), we have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa – an incredible achievement! (Faster trekkers may see the sunrise from the summit). We then start our descent to Mweka Hut campsite, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected. This evening we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Overnight Mweka Camp (breakfast – lunch – dinner)
Today the descent is rapid. In 3-4 hours we reach Mweka Park Gate. After saying farewell to the local team we transfer to the hotel in Moshi (1 hour) to relax, rebalance and celebrate our achievement.
