Known as the “Whiskey” route, the Machame route is now the most popular route on the mountain. Compared with Marangu, the days on Machame are longer and the walks are steeper. The Machame route is considered a difficult route, and is better suited for more adventurous folks and those with some hiking or backpacking experience.
The route begins from the south, then heads east, traversing underneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field before summiting. The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, although seven days is recommended. The Machame route is scenically beautiful and varied. However, due to the heavy crowds, it loses some of its spendor.
Arrive at Machame Gate (1,800 m) for registration. Trek through rainforest to Machame Camp (2,835 m).
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Dinner and overnight at Machame Camp.
Trek up through moorland to Shira Camp (3,750 m) for acclimatization.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Dinner and overnight at Shira Camp.
Trek across the Shira Plateau, descend slightly to Barranco Camp (3,960 m). Option to climb the Barranco Wall in the afternoon.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
Climb the Barranco Wall and trek across alpine desert to Karanga Camp (4,100 m).
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.
Trek to Barafu Camp (4,700 m) and rest for the midnight summit attempt.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Early dinner and rest.
Begin summit attempt around midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) at sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for overnight rest.
Hiking time: 12–15 hours
Dinner and overnight at Mweka Camp.
Trek down through rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive summit certificates and transfer back to your hotel.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
End of your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure.
$1940 – $2320
Price depends on group size
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