- +255 762 704 704
- +255 762 704 704
- info@ecosafarisafrica.com
The Machame Route—often referred to as the “Whiskey Route”—is one of the most popular and scenic trails to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, excellent acclimatization profile, and high summit success rate, the 7-day itinerary allows more time to adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
This well-paced adventure takes you through five diverse climatic zones, offering an unforgettable combination of wilderness, challenge, and natural beauty.
7 Days / 6 Nights
Mountain Trekking
Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Barranco Camp, Lava Tower,Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp ,Uhuru Peak , Mweka Camp
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Your journey begins at Machame Gate, where you’ll register with Kilimanjaro National Park authorities and meet your dedicated mountain crew, including guides, porters, and chefs. After a briefing and gear check, the adventure starts through the dense montane rainforest, a vibrant ecosystem rich in moisture, giant ferns, and exotic bird species.
The well-maintained trail ascends gradually, and you’ll hear the call of tropical birds and spot blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys swinging in the canopy. Eco-conscious hikers will appreciate the emphasis on Leave No Trace practices here—ensuring minimal impact on this lush habitat.
By late afternoon, you arrive at Machame Camp, located just above the treeline. Your tents will be set up, and a warm dinner served as you settle into the rhythm of mountain life.
Distance: 11 km | Time: 5–7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals Plan: Full Board
Today’s trek begins with a steady climb up a rocky ridge, offering spectacular views as the lush greenery gives way to the moorland zone. You’ll hike through a landscape of heathers, lichens, and volcanic rock formations. The terrain becomes more open and rugged, with occasional views of Mount Meru in the distance.
The route levels out onto the Shira Plateau, a vast high-altitude desert formed by lava flows. Shira Camp sits on this plateau, offering wide-open vistas and the first real sense of altitude. As the sun sets, the stars emerge in astonishing clarity due to the thin air and lack of light pollution.
This night is typically colder, but the clear skies reward you with brilliant stargazing—an unforgettable wilderness experience.
Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–6 hours | Elevation Gain: 1,015m
Habitat: Moorland
Meals Plan: Full Board
This is one of the most important acclimatization days on the Machame Route. You’ll ascend steadily toward Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation that marks the day’s highest point at 4,630 meters. The stark alpine desert landscape here is dramatic—scattered rocks, minimal vegetation, and distant views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.
After lunch near Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, passing through an eerie landscape of giant groundsels and senecio trees, plants unique to Kilimanjaro’s ecosystem. This descent helps your body adjust to altitude, following the golden rule of “climb high, sleep low.”
Barranco Camp sits at the base of the towering Breach Wall, offering shelter and majestic views. It’s a popular camp and a favorite for its dramatic natural setting.
Distance: 10 km | Time: 6–8 hours | Elevation Gain: +780m / -654m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Plan: Full Board
Your morning begins with the exciting challenge of scaling the Barranco Wall, a 300-meter vertical rock face. Despite its imposing look, the climb is non-technical and safe, with guides assisting each step. Once at the top, the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular.
The trail continues with several ascents and descents across glacial streams and valleys, leading to Karanga Camp—a peaceful, less crowded site that provides critical acclimatization before the summit push.
Afternoon rest here helps conserve energy, and your crew reinforces eco-friendly practices, such as solar-powered lighting and biodegradable waste systems.
Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–5 hours | Elevation Gain: 100m (with ups and downs)
Habitat: Alpine Moorland
Meals Plan: Full Board
Today’s trek is shorter but steep, taking you to Barafu Camp, the high-altitude base from which your summit attempt will begin. You’ll cross arid, windswept terrain as temperatures drop and vegetation disappears. The final section climbs a rugged ridge until you reach camp, perched on a narrow, rocky plateau.
Barafu means “ice” in Swahili, and this name is fitting for the cold, glacial air and views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. After an early dinner, you’ll rest in your tent until just before midnight. Guides will review summit procedures and help prepare your gear for the final ascent.
Distance: 4 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Elevation Gain: 678m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Plan: Full Board
At around midnight, you’ll begin the most demanding and rewarding leg of your journey: the Kilimanjaro summit. Hiking by headlamp over scree and ice, you’ll pass Stella Point on the crater rim before reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Standing at 5,895 meters, you’ll witness a surreal sunrise over the glaciers and plains below—an emotional, unforgettable moment. After taking photos and soaking in your achievement, you’ll begin the long descent, returning first to Barafu for rest and then continuing down to Mweka Camp.
This descent takes you from the arctic zone to the edge of the rainforest in a single day—a powerful reminder of Kilimanjaro’s unique ecology.
Distance: 17 km | Time: 11–14 hours | Elevation Gain: +1,222m / -2,795m
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Meals Plan: Half Board
Your final day begins with a relaxed breakfast in the forest. The trail descends through dense vegetation, often shrouded in morning mist, and alive with birdsong. You may spot tree hyraxes or rare orchids along the way.
Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you’ll sign the summit register and receive your Kilimanjaro certificate, a proud memento of your accomplishment. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your lodge for a much-needed shower, a celebratory meal, and some well-earned rest.
Meals Plan: Half Board
AICC Plot, Block "3" Sekei, P.O. Box 1302, Arusha, Tanzania
+255 762 704 704
info@ecosafarisafrica.com
Shangarai, Mkapa Street, Plot 814 Block “B”, House No 426 P.O. Box 1302, Arusha, Tanzania
+255 762 704 704
info@ecosafarisafrica.com
