7-DAYS TREKKING MOUNT KILIMANJARO VIA MACHAME ROUTE
Explore Tours
Duration: 7 days | Difficulty: Medium | Scenery: Excellent | Traffic: High
The Machame Route, affectionately known as the “Whisky Route,” is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. It’s one of the most scenic paths to the summit, weaving through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and semi-desert terrain. This route’s longer trek duration and manageable incline increase the likelihood of a successful summit.
Included/Exclude
- Full Kilimanjaro trek as per the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guide (Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified)
- Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
- Pre and post-accommodation (Bed and Breakfast)
- Airport Transfers
- All meals and drinking water per itinerary
- National Park & Camping Fees, Crew Permits, and VAT
- Crew wages (fair and sustainable)
- Gate Transfers
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
- Portable Private Toilet and Porter
- Quality Imported Equipment
- Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel or Medical Insurance (highly recommended)
- Gamow Bag (optional)
- Medication
- Tips for porters and crew
- Personal spending (souvenirs, energy food, drinks)
- Personal hire gear (trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.)
- Additional lodge nights for acclimatization
Tour Plan
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be warmly greeted and transferred to your overnight accommodation in either Arusha or Moshi. The evening includes a briefing with your head guide, gear checks, and a chance to hire any necessary equipment for the trek.
Elevation: 1811m/5942ft to 3021m/9911ft | Altitude gained: 1210m
We begin with a scenic drive to the Machame Gate. While waiting for our permits, take in the bustling atmosphere of the park entrance. The trek commences through the lush rainforest, with its slippery trails and rich flora. We recommend gaiters and trekking poles to navigate the muddy path. This day will 
offer your first glimpses of Kilimanjaro's towering beauty.
Elevation: 3021m/9911ft to 3839m/12,595ft | Altitude gained: 818m
After a restful night and hearty breakfast, the trail ascends and crosses a rocky ridge toward the Shira Plateau. The terrain changes as we leave the rainforest behind, moving into the moorland zone. As we gain altitude, the air begins to cool, and the vistas expand. You'll soon arrive at the 
Shira campsite.
Elevation: 3839m/12,595ft to 3986m/13,077ft | Altitude gained: 147m
This day is crucial for acclimatization. We head east up a ridge and pass by the Lava Tower (4650m), nicknamed the "Shark’s Tooth." After a brief stop, we continue to Barranco Camp. Despite finishing at a similar elevation as we began, the hike prepares your body for the higher altitudes ahead.
Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft | Altitude gained: 48m
A challenging yet rewarding ascent awaits us as we tackle the Barranco Wall, one of the most exhilarating parts of the trek. The wall is an exciting scramble, offering panoramic views of the mountain's rugged beauty. After reaching the top, we continue to Karanga Camp.
Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft | Altitude gained: 628m
Today, the path takes us to Barafu Camp, the base for our summit attempt. Along the South Circuit, we enjoy spectacular views of Kilimanjaro's peaks from various angles. An early dinner prepares us for the challenging ascent that awaits the next day. Rest up for summit night.
Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft (Summit) | Altitude gained: 1233m
A 2 a.m. start leads us toward the summit of Kilimanjaro. The ascent to Stella Point is mentally and physically taxing, but the breathtaking sunrise rewards your efforts. From Stella Point, it's just an hour to the summit: Uhuru Peak. Upon reaching the top, enjoy the stunning views and cele
brate your monumental achievement. Afterward, we descend steeply to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft | Altitude lost: 1473m
After breakfast, we descend to the Mweka Park Gate, where we receive our summit certificates. The trail back to the gate is steep and muddy, so we again recommend gaiters and trekking poles. Once at the gate, a vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a celebration and relaxation after your adventure.
