The 6-day Machame Route is a scenic and rewarding way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers a more challenging but beautiful trek with great acclimatization. You pass through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers. Each day brings new views as you ascend Africa’s highest peak. Kilimanjaro is calling for an unforgettable adventure above the clouds.
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel, driven to Mount Kilimanjaro, and arrive at Machame Gate, where your crew completes registration and final packing. Once formalities are done, your trek begins.
Today’s hike takes you through lush afro-montane rainforest, where you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. Keep an eye out for unique flora and the gradual transition of forest zones as you ascend.
By late afternoon, you will reach Machame Camp, where you’ll relax, enjoy dinner, and spend your first night on the mountain (full board).
From Machame Camp, you will continue your trek toward Shira Cave Camp. The trail begins with a relatively steep ascent, gaining altitude quickly. Along the way, you will stop for a picnic lunch while enjoying the surrounding scenery.
Today’s hike passes through the heath zone, where unique plants such as helichrysum and giant lobelia become more prominent. You’ll also encounter fascinating geological features, including lava formations and glacial valleys.
By late afternoon, you will arrive at Shira Cave Camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay (full board).
Today is a walk-high-sleep-low day. You will ascend into the alpine desert, and for those who are feeling strong, you can even head up to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. Lunch is taken as a picnic lunch en route. This is a long day, but it pays dividends later on —great acclimatization day! Your overnight stay will be at Barranco Camp (full board).
Departing from Barranco Camp, known for its towering giant groundsels (Senecio), you will begin by ascending the famous Barranco Wall. The trail then leads through scenic glacial valleys toward Karanga Camp, where you will stop for lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll continue your trek to Barafu Camp across a stark alpine desert landscape. Strong winds are common here, but the camp rewards you with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak.
After an early dinner, you will rest and prepare for your summit attempt. Your overnight stay will be at Barafu Camp (full board).
Your summit attempt begins just before midnight, as you set out for the final ascent. Patience and determination are key as you climb steadily under the starlit sky. By dawn, you will reach the crater rim, and from Stella Point, continue on the final stretch to Uhuru Peak—the Roof of Africa.
After celebrating your achievement, you’ll begin your descent, passing back through Barafu before continuing down to Mweka Camp. You will arrive by evening for a well-deserved rest, dinner, and overnight stay (full board).
A final descent of 4,500 ft brings you down to Mweka Gate, where your team will have prepared another scrumptious and fresh lunch. Your transfer vehicles will be waiting to collect you. Here, you will say goodbye to our mountain staff before heading to Jro for the departure. Extend your Tanzanian vacation with Joyful Safaris and tours on safari, walking safari, or other adventures
Accommodation in hotel Arusha. |
Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro airport (JRO) on a private vehicle |
Services of trained professional English-speaking Mountain guides, cooks and porters. |
International Flight |
Tip for Mountain Crews and Safari Guide |
Passport and Visa |
