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From
$2,200
per person
Overview
Nicknamed the "Whiskey Route," Machame earns its reputation as one of the most visually spectacular paths up Kilimanjaro. The trail passes through the full spectrum of the mountain's ecological zones — dense rainforest, open moorland, alpine desert, and glacial terrain — ensuring a constantly changing landscape from start to summit.
The route uses the "climb high, sleep low" acclimatisation strategy, particularly effective on the day that takes climbers up to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. This approach meaningfully improves the body's readiness for the summit push.
Machame draws trekkers who want both a challenge and a stunning visual experience. The 7-day version, which adds an extra acclimatisation day at Karanga Camp, is strongly recommended for anyone seeking the best possible summit outcome.
Photos
Summit Success Rate
90%
Success Rate
6-Day Route
90%
Success Rate
7-Day Route
* Based on guided expeditions with our professional support team.
Expert Recommendation
6-Day Option — From $2,200/person
Who should choose the 6-day route?
Best suited for experienced high-altitude trekkers with prior acclimatisation. If you have trekked above 4,000m before and maintain excellent fitness, the 6-day option is achievable — though we always recommend more time for safety.
7-Day Option — From $2,500/person
Who should choose the 7-day route?
Our most recommended option. The additional days significantly improve your acclimatisation profile, resulting in higher summit success and a far more enjoyable experience. Ideal for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers and those prioritising success.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
DAY
1
1
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
4-5 hours 10.75km 1,828m to 3,032m
After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate. Once registration is complete, the trek begins through lush rainforest.
The trail can be steep and muddy, with roots and uneven terrain. You may spot monkeys and unique plant life along the way.
Machame Camp sits above the forest with views of the plains below.
1,828m to 3,032m
10.75km
4-5 hours
Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
2
2
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
4-6 hours 5.3km 3,302m to 3,850m
The trail climbs steeply out of the forest into moorland. The landscape opens up with volcanic rock formations and giant heather.
Views of Kibo and Mount Meru may appear if the weather is clear. The pace slows to support acclimatization.
3,302m to 3,850m
5.3km
4-6 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
3
3
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
6-8 hours 10.75km 3,850m to 3,986m
This is an important acclimatization day. You hike across the Shira Plateau toward Lava Tower (4,530m), where lunch is taken.
Afterwards, you descend to Barranco Camp, following the "climb high, sleep low" principle.
3,850m to 3,986m
10.75km
6-8 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
4
4
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
6-8 hours 8.5km 3,986m to 4,640m
You begin by climbing the Barranco Wall, then continue through Karanga Valley before reaching Barafu Camp.
This is your summit base camp. The environment is dry and exposed. Early dinner and rest are essential.
3,986m to 4,640m
8.5km
6-8 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
NIGHT
4
4
Night 4: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
7-8 hours 4.86km 4,640m to 5,895m
Summit climb starts at midnight. The ascent is slow and steady, reaching Stella Point at sunrise.
From there, continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
4,640m to 5,895m
4.86km
7-8 hours
DAY
5
5
Day 5: Summit to Mweka Camp
6-7 hours 11.5km 5,895m to 3,106m
Descend to Barafu for breakfast, then continue down to Mweka Camp via the Mweka route.
5,895m to 3,106m
11.5km
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
6
6
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
3-4 hours 9.1km 3,106m to 1,633m
Final descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate. Certificates are awarded before transfer back to your hotel.
3,106m to 1,633m
9.1km
3-4 hours
Breakfast & Lunch
Pricing
All prices are per person in USD.
| Group Size | 6 Days |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $3,600 |
| 2 people | $2,850 |
| 3 people | $2,600 |
| 4 people | $2,450 |
| 5 people | $2,350 |
| 6 people | $2,300 |
| 7 people | $2,250 |
| 8+ people | $2,200 |
| Group Size | 7 Days |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $4,100 |
| 2 people | $3,250 |
| 3 people | $2,950 |
| 4 people | $2,800 |
| 5 people | $2,680 |
| 6 people | $2,620 |
| 7 people | $2,560 |
| 8+ people | $2,500 |
Prices include all services listed under "What's Included". International flights and personal equipment are not included.
What's Included
Included
- All airport and gate transfers
- Hotel accommodation before and after the climb (bed & breakfast)
- All camping or hut equipment
- All meals during the trek
- Professional KPAP-certified guides and porters
- Emergency oxygen equipment
- Medical check-ups twice daily
- Fully stocked medical kits
- All national park fees and conservation fees
- Summit certificates upon successful completion
- 24/7 support team
Not Included
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania visa fee (approx. $50–100 depending on nationality)
- Travel insurance (altitude coverage required)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment rentals
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended $250–350 per participant)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Machame called the Whiskey Route?
The nickname comes from comparing it to the Marangu Route, which is nicknamed the Coca-Cola Route for being more straightforward. Machame is steeper and more physically demanding — hence the stronger drink. Despite the challenge, its scenery and acclimatisation profile make it one of the most sought-after routes on the mountain.
What is the difference between 6 days and 7 days on Machame?
The 7-day version includes an extra night at Karanga Camp between Barranco and Barafu. This additional acclimatisation day makes a real difference to how the body handles the summit push, and we recommend it for most climbers — especially those without prior high-altitude experience.
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
Contact us today to plan your Machame Route.
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