The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 7-day trek offers breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and a great balance between challenge and acclimatization. Starting from the lush rainforest at Machame Gate, the trail takes you through moorland, alpine desert, and up to the glaciers of Uhuru Peak. With a gradual ascent and a climb-high, sleep-low profile, this route improves your chances of a successful summit. Trekkers will encounter stunning features like the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and the awe-inspiring view from Stella Point before reaching Africa’s highest point. Ideal for adventurous hikers with good fitness, the Machame Route offers an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.
7 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE
TOUR OVERVIEW
7 Days Machame Route – Kilimanjaro Climb Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)
Distance: 11 km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Climate: Rainforest (humid and lush)
Acclimatization: Begins gently with altitude gain
Highlight: Walk through the dense, green rainforest filled with birdlife and exotic flora
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,840m)
Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Climate: Moorland (cooler, less vegetation)
Acclimatization: Moderate elevation gain helps your body adjust
Highlight: Panoramic views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m), then down to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Climate: Alpine Desert (thin air, dry)
Acclimatization: “Climb high, sleep low” strategy aids altitude adjustment
Highlight: Reaching Lava Tower, a key acclimatization point and geological wonder
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Climate: Alpine Desert
Acclimatization: Maintains altitude for steady adaptation
Highlight: Conquering the iconic Barranco Wall, a fun and challenging climb
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Distance: 4 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Climate: Alpine Desert, cold and windy
Acclimatization: Final push before summit night
Highlight: Preparing mentally and physically for the summit attempt under starry skies
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 17 km | Hiking Time: 11–14 hours
Climate: Arctic (freezing, icy winds at summit)
Acclimatization: Maximum altitude reached, then descent
Highlight: Reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise—Africa’s highest point and the trek’s ultimate reward
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Climate: Rainforest
Acclimatization: Return to lower altitudes
Highlight: Celebrate your successful trek and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate
After breakfast, depart for Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha for your onward travel. Your unforgettable safari adventure ends here.
Brown Parrot Safaris wishes you a safe journey and looks forward to welcoming you again in the future bring your family and friends next time!
Safari Inclusions
- All park fees and rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
- Accommodation in mountain huts or tents during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek
- Transfers to and from the park gate
- Government taxes and VAT
- Airport transfers (on request)
- Pre-climb briefing and equipment check
Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzanian visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook (highly recommended)
- Personal trekking gear (clothing, boots, sleeping bags, etc.)
- Hotel accommodation before/after the climb (unless booked with us)
- Additional snacks, drinks, or meals outside of the trek
- Optional activities not part of the trekking itinerary
START YOUR KILI TREKKING TODAY
Your trekking adventure begins the moment you choose Brown Parrot Safaris. Whether you're aiming to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, hike through the dramatic landscapes of Tanzania, or witness the changing ecosystems along the way, we're here to guide your journey. With experienced mountain guides, personalized trekking plans, and dependable support, we ensure your climb is safe, rewarding, and unforgettable. Don’t wait lace up your boots and start your trekking journey of a lifetime today!
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