Machame Route
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Destination to Visit
Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Barranco Camp ,Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak , Mweka Camp
Start / Finish in
Start in Moshi & End in Moshi
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Overview
The Machame Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” it is more challenging than the Marangu Route but offers significantly better acclimatization and spectacular landscapes along the way.
This route approaches the mountain from the southwest and allows trekkers to experience several of Kilimanjaro’s ecological zones—from lush rainforest and heathland to alpine desert and the glacier-covered summit. The trail also follows the famous “climb high, sleep low” principle, helping the body gradually adapt to the increasing altitude.
The 6-day Machame trek is designed for trekkers who are physically fit and prepared for longer hiking days. Although slightly shorter than the 7-day version, it still provides excellent acclimatization opportunities while passing iconic landmarks such as the Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and Lava Tower area.
Day By Day
Day 1: Moshi / Arusha to Machame Camp
Your adventure begins with a morning drive from Moshi or Arusha to the Machame Gate, the starting point of the Machame Route. After completing park registration and meeting your mountain crew, the trek begins through the dense rainforest on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro.
The trail winds steadily uphill beneath a canopy of towering trees, where climbers may spot blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and a variety of colorful bird species. The forest is often humid and the path can be muddy, especially during the rainy season, making trekking poles and gaiters useful.
After several hours of hiking through the vibrant rainforest environment, you reach Machame Camp, where your tents will already be prepared by the support team. Enjoy dinner and relax while taking in the first views of the mountain above the forest canopy.
- Elevation: 1830m to 3050m
- Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours - Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
After breakfast, the trek continues as the forest gradually gives way to open heathland. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you climb along a rocky ridge, offering impressive views back toward the plains below.
As vegetation changes, giant heathers and unique alpine plants begin to appear. The landscape becomes more open, allowing the first dramatic views of Kibo Peak, the highest of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones.
The route eventually leads onto the wide and scenic Shira Plateau, one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world. From here, you walk across open moorland to reach Shira Camp, where you will spend the night surrounded by expansive mountain views.
- Elevation: 3050m to 3850m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
Today is an important acclimatization day. The trek begins with a gradual climb toward the famous Lava Tower, a striking volcanic rock formation often called the “Shark’s Tooth.”
As you ascend, the terrain becomes increasingly barren, transitioning into an alpine desert environment. Upon reaching the Lava Tower area, trekkers stop for lunch and a short rest at over 4,600 meters. Although the altitude can be challenging, this climb is extremely beneficial for acclimatization.
After lunch, the trail descends into the beautiful Barranco Valley. Towering above the camp is the impressive Barranco Wall, which you will climb the following day.
Barranco Camp is widely regarded as one of the most scenic camps on Kilimanjaro, surrounded by giant senecio plants and dramatic mountain scenery.
- Elevation: 3850m to 4600m (Lava Tower) down to 3950m
- Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours - Habitat: Semi-desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
The day begins with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall. Although it looks intimidating from below, the route is safe and manageable, involving some easy scrambling while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
After reaching the top of the wall, the trail continues across ridges and valleys toward Karanga Valley, where climbers stop briefly before continuing upward.
The path then gradually climbs to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The environment here is stark and rocky, with powerful winds often sweeping across the ridge.
After an early dinner, climbers rest for several hours before preparing for the midnight summit push.
- Elevation: 3950m to 4700m
- Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours - Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Shortly after midnight, climbers begin the most challenging part of the trek: the summit attempt. Equipped with headlamps, the group slowly ascends steep scree slopes toward Stella Point on the crater rim.
Reaching Stella Point brings a spectacular reward—the sunrise over Africa’s highest mountain. After a short rest, the trek continues along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, standing at 5,895 meters above sea level.
After celebrating at the summit and taking photos, the descent begins back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch. Later in the afternoon, the trek continues down to Mweka Camp, where climbers spend their final night on the mountain.
- Elevation: 4700m to 5895m then down to 3090m
- Distance: 5 km ascent / 13 km descent
- Hiking Time: 10–13 hours total
- Habitat: Arctic summit & alpine desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, the final descent continues through lush forest along the Mweka Route. The trail gradually leads down through tropical vegetation where birds and monkeys are often seen.
Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, climbers receive their summit certificates before meeting the vehicle that transfers them back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest.
- Elevation: 3090m to 1680m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals: Breakfast
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RECOMMENDED FOR
Adventure seekers who dream of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.
Nature lovers who want to experience diverse landscapes, from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and glaciers.
Travelers seeking a personal challenge and a rewarding sense of achievement at the summit.
PRICE INCLUSION
- All Game Drives;
- Accommodation At Lodges/Tented Camps
- English Speaking Driver/Guide;
- All Food; Drinking Water;
- 18% VAT Tax;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- Accommodation In Moshi/Arusha;
- Airport Transfers;
PRICE EXCLUSIONS
- International flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities (guide, driver, lodge staff)
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks (unless stated)
- Optional activities