Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is the most popular way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This 7-day trek provides excellent acclimatization and passes through diverse landscapes including rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers before reaching Uhuru Peak.
Low season (April 1st – May 19th)
Mid season (May 20th – June 30th)
(October 1st – December 19th)
(January 11th – March 31st)
High season (July 1st – September 30th)
(December 20th – January 10th)
Highlights
Trip highlights
- Scenic northern approach to Mount Kilimanjaro
- Less crowded route compared to other Kilimanjaro trails
- Stunning views across the Kenyan plains
- Opportunity to see wildlife near the lower slopes
- Summit attempt to Uhuru Peak
Inclusions
What's included
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- Park entry and camping fees
- All meals during the trek
- Camping equipment (tents and mattresses)
- Drinking water during the trek
- Airport transfers
Days 1
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Your adventure begins at Machame Gate, where you complete park registration before starting the trek through the lush rainforest of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail winds steadily upward beneath a dense canopy of giant trees, where you may see monkeys and colorful birds along the way. After several hours of hiking, you reach Machame Camp where you can relax, enjoy dinner, and spend your first night on the mountain.
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail gradually climbs into open moorland landscapes with spectacular views of the mountain. As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes smaller and the scenery opens up, revealing wide valleys and dramatic ridges. The steady ascent leads you to Shira Plateau, where Shira Camp is located. Here you will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes before settling in for dinner and overnight.
Day 2
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Day 3
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Today’s trek focuses on acclimatization as you climb higher toward Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic rock formation rising above the alpine desert. After reaching this high point, the trail descends gradually into the beautiful Barranco Valley. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude. You will arrive at Barranco Camp beneath the impressive Barranco Wall, where you enjoy dinner and overnight.
The day begins with an exciting scramble up the famous Barranco Wall. Although steep in sections, the climb is not technical and rewards trekkers with incredible views of the surrounding valleys and glaciers. After reaching the top, the trail continues through rolling terrain toward Karanga Valley. A steady hike leads to Karanga Camp, where you will rest, acclimatize, and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Day 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Day 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Today you continue the trek through a rugged alpine desert landscape toward Barafu Camp. The trail gradually climbs along rocky ridges with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak. Barafu Camp sits on a narrow ridge and serves as the base camp for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, you will rest and prepare for the midnight ascent to the summit.
Around midnight, climbers begin the challenging ascent toward the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail climbs steadily through the darkness toward Stella Point, where the first rays of sunrise appear over the horizon. From here, a final push leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Mweka Camp for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Day 6
Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day begins with a relaxing descent through lush rainforest toward Mweka Gate. The trail winds through dense vegetation and vibrant forest landscapes as you gradually leave the mountain behind. At the gate, climbers receive their summit certificates before returning to the hotel to celebrate the successful climb.
Accommodations:
Park View Inn Moshi a place to enjoy the beauty and adventure of Mount Kilimanjaro, The hotel is in the heart of Moshi, a lively town at the base of the mountain. Whether you are here to climb, safari, or conference, we will make your stay cozy and comfortable.
Aishi Machame Hotel Just 25 minutes. a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature. the hotel features beautiful gardens, a relaxing outdoor swimming pool, and rooms that are newly renovated for comfort.
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport.
FAQs
What our Clients Says
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro located?
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in northern Tanzania near the Kenya border. It is the highest mountain in Africa and stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
Do I need climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro?
Do I need climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro?aNo technical climbing experience is required. Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical trek, meaning hikers can reach the summit without ropes or mountaineering equipment. However, good physical fitness and preparation are important.
How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
Most treks take 5 to 9 days, depending on the route chosen. Longer routes allow better acclimatization and increase the chances of successfully reaching the summit.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are:
January to March – cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
June to October – dry weather and the most popular trekking season
January to March – cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
June to October – dry weather and the most popular trekking season
How difficult is the Kilimanjaro climb?
Kilimanjaro is challenging mainly due to high altitude, not technical difficulty. Trekkers must hike for several hours each day while gradually adjusting to decreasing oxygen levels.
What is the success rate for reaching the summit?
Success rates depend on the route and number of days spent acclimatizing. Routes lasting 7–8 days have the highest success rates, often reaching 85–90%.
What routes can be used to climb Kilimanjaro?
The most popular routes include:
1. Machame Route
2. Lemosho Route
3. Marangu Route
4. Rongai Route
5. Northern Circuit Route
Each route offers different scenery, duration, and difficulty levels.
1. Machame Route
2. Lemosho Route
3. Marangu Route
4. Rongai Route
5. Northern Circuit Route
Each route offers different scenery, duration, and difficulty levels.
Do I need a guide to climb Kilimanjaro?
Do I need a guide to climb Kilimanjaro?
What should I pack for the climb?
Essential items include:
Warm layered clothing
Waterproof jacket and pants
Hiking boots
Sleeping bag
Headlamp
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Personal medication
Most tour companies provide camping equipment.
Warm layered clothing
Waterproof jacket and pants
Hiking boots
Sleeping bag
Headlamp
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Personal medication
Most tour companies provide camping equipment.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Because Kilimanjaro is very high, some trekkers experience altitude sickness. Choosing a longer itinerary, hiking slowly, and staying hydrated help reduce the risk.
Where do climbers sleep during the trek?
Accommodation depends on the route:
Camping tents on most routes
Mountain huts on the Marangu Route
Camping tents on most routes
Mountain huts on the Marangu Route
What happens after reaching the summit?
Trekkers reach Uhuru Peak, take photos at the summit sign, and then descend the same day to a lower camp for rest.
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