“The Whiskey Route to the Roof of Africa”
The Machame Route, famously known as the Whiskey Route, is one of the most scenic and popular trails to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Celebrated for its stunning variety of landscapes, it perfectly balances adventure, beauty, and acclimatization. Beginning on the southern slopes of the mountain, the trail gradually ascends through lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert before reaching the ice-capped summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Renowned for its breathtaking views and diverse vegetation zones, the Machame Route takes trekkers through some of Kilimanjaro’s most iconic features—including the Shira Plateau, the spectacular Barranco Wall, and the Lava Tower. The steady altitude gain and “climb high, sleep low” approach make it one of the best routes for acclimatization and a higher summit success rate.
Unlike easier trails, the Machame Route is designed for those seeking a true trekking adventure. The 7-day itinerary offers a gradual and rewarding ascent, while the 6-day version is faster and more physically demanding. With professional guides, delicious meals, and awe-inspiring scenery every step of the way, this route offers an unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa.
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Tour Highlights
The 7-day Machame Route includes an additional acclimatization day at Karanga Camp, allowing trekkers to rest and adapt to the altitude before the final push to the summit.
This extra day greatly improves summit success and comfort compared to the 6-day version, which continues directly from Barranco to Barafu without resting at Karanga.
Day by Day Experience
Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800 m) – Machame Camp (2,835 m)
After breakfast in Arusha or Moshi, drive to Machame Gate for registration and briefing. Begin your trek through the dense rainforest, where colobus monkeys and tropical birds thrive. Arrive at Machame Camp for dinner and overnight.
(Hiking time: 5–7 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,850 m)
Leave the rainforest behind and enter the heath and moorland zone. Ascend along a rocky ridge with sweeping views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira Camp for dinner and overnight rest.
(Hiking time: 4–6 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630 m) – Barranco Camp (3,960 m)
Today is an important acclimatization day. Climb steadily to the Lava Tower for lunch and altitude adjustment before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps the body adapt to the changing altitude. Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
(Hiking time: 6–8 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995 m)
Begin the day by conquering the Barranco Wall, a thrilling and scenic climb offering panoramic views of Kibo Peak. Continue across ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize before the final ascent. Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.
(Hiking time: 4–5 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673 m)
After breakfast, continue upward toward Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. The landscape becomes more barren as you approach high altitude. Enjoy an early dinner and rest before your midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.
(Hiking time: 3–5 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,100 m)
Start your summit push around midnight under a sky full of stars. Climb steadily to Stella Point (5,756 m), then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement and enjoy breathtaking sunrise views before descending to Barafu Camp for breakfast. Continue down to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
(Total hiking time: 10–14 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha/Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Meet your driver for the transfer back to Arusha or Moshi, marking the end of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
(Hiking time: 3–4 hours)
Popular Facilities
â—Ź Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
â—Ź Professional English-speaking mountain guide, cook, and porters
â—Ź All meals during the climb (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
â—Ź Accommodation in mountain tents
â—Ź Drinking water and hot beverages
â—Ź Transfers to and from the park gate
â—Ź Government taxes and fees
â—Ź Accommodation in Arusha/Moshi before or after the climb (unless requested)
â—Ź Sleeping bags and personal trekking equipment
â—Ź International and domestic flights
â—Ź Tanzania visa and travel insurance
â—Ź Tips for the guide, cook, and porters
â—Ź Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
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