The Machame Route, known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of Kilimanjaro’s most popular and scenic paths to the summit. Starting from the southern base of the mountain, this route traverses through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforest to high alpine desert. Known for its challenging yet rewarding terrain, the Machame Route offers impressive views and a well-paced itinerary, allowing climbers to acclimatize before reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. With an ascent and descent along different trails, climbers experience new scenery each day.
Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation: 1,640 m (5,381 ft) to 2,850 m (9,350 ft)
Depart from Arusha to Machame Gate for registration and a pre-hike briefing. Trek through dense rainforest, with possible sightings of colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Arrive at Machame Camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Elevation: 2,850 m (9,350 ft) to 3,750 m (12,303 ft)
Leave the rainforest behind and continue through moorland, where you’ll have clear views of Kibo Peak. Arrive at Shira Camp on the Shira Plateau for a restful night.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation: 3,750 m (12,303 ft) to 4,630 m (15,190 ft), then down to 3,960 m (12,992 ft)
Climb up to Lava Tower for acclimatization, reaching 4,630 meters before descending to Barranco Camp. This climb-high, sleep-low strategy aids in acclimatization, improving summit success.
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 3,960 m (12,992 ft) to 4,035 m (13,235 ft)
Today’s highlight is the Barranco Wall climb, followed by a trek through glacial valleys and ridges to reach Karanga Camp.
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 4,035 m (13,235 ft) to 4,673 m (15,331 ft)
A steady ascent brings you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest in preparation for the midnight summit push.
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) ascent to summit; 12 km (7.5 miles) descent to Mweka Camp
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to the summit; 4-6 hours descent
Elevation: 4,673 m (15,331 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft), then down to 3,068 m (10,065 ft)
Begin the final ascent at midnight, reaching Stella Point at sunrise and continuing to Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro’s highest point. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 3,068 m (10,065 ft) to 1,640 m (5,381 ft)
Complete your descent through the lush forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before returning to Arusha.
