Machame Route

8 Days 7 Nights

Minimum Age

16
Maximum Age

80
Language

English, French, Spanish, Kiswahili, Sign Language
Accommodation

Hotel before and after your hike, The North Face tents
Permits

All Mount Kilimanjaro National Park fees included
Best season

Dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October
Fitness level

Moderate fitness level. With its gradual ascent and longer duration (7–8 days), this route is ideal for those who can manage steady-paced hikes and prioritize acclimatization.
Meals

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are freshly prepared daily. Designed to keep you full and provide the energy and nutrients needed for the climb.
Maximum Altitude

Uhuru Peak: 5,895m (19,341 ft)

Machame Route Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is Kilimanjaro’s most popular and adventurous path, combining challenging terrain with stunning views. Over 7 days, climbers journey through diverse ecosystems—from lush forests to alpine meadows and lunar-like deserts. This route is a favorite for those seeking a more demanding climb with rewarding scenery, including iconic landmarks like the Barranco Wall. Known for its scenic beauty and high success rates, Machame is perfect for trekkers who want a balance of challenge and unforgettable landscapes.

Highlights

Scenic Diversity from Rainforest to Summit
Higher Success Rate with Extra Days
Jaw-Dropping Views of Sunsets and Stars at Campsites
Steep, Challenging, and Rewarding Route
Popular Trail with Social Atmosphere

Itinerary

Day
One

Arrival in Moshi

Arrive in Moshi and settle in at your accommodation. Your guides will provide a pre-climb briefing, answer any questions, and check your gear to ensure you're ready for the adventure. Rest up - your Kilimanjaro climb begins tomorrow.

Comfort Hotel
Day
Two

Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Elevation: 1,800m (5,906ft) to 2,835m (9,301ft)
Elevation Gain: 1,035m (3,395ft)
Distance: 11 km (6,8 miles)
Hiking Time: 5–7 hrs

Begin your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest, shaded by moss-draped trees and filled with birdsong. As you ascend, the landscape shifts to heather and moorland. Machame Camp offers your first mountain views.

Tip: Embrace the "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) pace to aid acclimatization.

7 hour

Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Tents
Day
Three

Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp

Elevation: 2,835m (9,301 ft) to 3,750m (12,303 ft)
Elevation Gain: 915m (3,002 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Climb into Kilimanjaro’s alpine zone, where volcanic rock replaces forest. The trail reveals wide views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru. Shira Cave Camp gives a true taste of high-altitude trekking.

Highlight: Watch the ecosystem transform with every step.

7 hour

Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Tents
Day
Four

Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,750m (12,303 ft) to 3,960m (12,992 ft)
Via Lava Tower: 4,640m (15,223 ft)
Elevation Gain: 890m (2,920 ft) up to Lava Tower, then descent to camp
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Ascend to Lava Tower for critical acclimatization before descending to Barranco Valley—home to alien-like senecios and dramatic cliffs. This “climb high, sleep low” day is a key to your success.

Tip: Hydration and nutrition are essential today.

8 hour

Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Tents
Day
Five

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,960m (12,992 ft) to 4,035m (13,238 ft)
Elevation Gain: 75m (246 ft)
Distance: ~5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Scramble the Barranco Wall - a thrilling challenge with a rewarding panorama - then cross undulating trails to Karanga Camp, the final water source on the route.

Highlight: Barranco Wall is a trekker’s rite of passage.

5 hour

Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Tents
Day
Six

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,035m (13,238 ft) to 4,640m (15,223 ft)
Elevation Gain: 605m (1,985 ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Hike over volcanic scree to reach Barafu Camp, perched on a ridge with a clear view of Uhuru Peak. Prepare for summit night: rest, hydrate, and organize gear.

Tip: Eat well - your body needs energy for the climb.

5 hour

Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Tents
Day
Seven

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,640m (15,223 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) to 3,080m (10,105 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1,255m (4,118 ft) up to summit
Elevation Loss: 2,815m (9,236 ft) down to Mweka Camp
Distance: ~17 km (10.6 miles)
Hiking Time: 12–16 hours

Summit night begins under starlight. Reach Stella Point by sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebration, descend to Mweka Camp.

Highlight: Sunrise over Kilimanjaro’s glaciers is pure magic.

16 hour

Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Tents
Day
Eight

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,080m (10,105 ft) to 1,640m (5,381 ft)
Elevation Loss: 1,440m (4,724 ft)
Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where your summit certificate awaits. Celebrate with your guides before returning to Moshi.

Tip: Take time to honor your support team - they made this possible.

4 hour

Breakfast + Lunch

Comfort Hotel

Cost Includes

Transfer from hotel to mountain
Meals on the hike
Salaries for professional guides and porters
All park fees and taxes

Cost Excludes

International flights, Airport taxes, Visa fee
Travel insurance
Lunch, dinner and beverages in the hotel
Snacks and energy bars, Items of a personal nature
Tips for the climbing crew
Personal gear rentals and purchases
Single supplement
Portable toilet and shower

Dates

See all departures at Machame Route

FAQs for the Machame Route

When is the best time to climb the Machame Route?

The dry seasons (January to mid-March and June to October) are ideal, with clear skies and manageable trail conditions.

How long is the Machame Route, and what is the average hiking time?

The route is approximately 37 miles (60 km) over 6–7 days, with daily hikes ranging from 5 to 7 hours, and summit day lasting 12–16 hours.

What makes the Machame Route unique?

It’s known for its diverse scenery, from lush rainforests to dramatic ridgelines and glacier views, making it one of the most visually rewarding routes.

Is the Machame Route suitable for beginners?

While not the easiest route, its gradual ascent makes it manageable for fit first-time climbers who are prepared for the challenge.

How crowded is the Machame Route?

As one of the most popular routes, it can get busy, especially during peak climbing months, but its stunning views are worth it.

What are the main highlights of the Machame Route?

The Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and scenic vistas from the Shira Plateau are some of the most memorable features.

What’s the biggest challenge on the Machame Route?

The Barranco Wall is steep but manageable with some scrambling, while summit day requires stamina and determination. And of course Summit Night.

What’s the acclimatization profile like on the Machame Route?

The “climb high, sleep low” approach of the route aids in acclimatization, increasing summit success rates compared to shorter routes.

What’s the wildlife like on the Machame Route?

Rainforest sections are home to colobus monkeys, vibrant birds, and unique flora, with fewer sightings at higher elevations.

What’s the biggest advantage of the Machame Route?

Its varied landscapes and excellent acclimatization profile make it a favorite for trekkers seeking a scenic and rewarding climb.

Machame Route Map, Distances and Elevations

Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route Elevations and Distances Chart

At JoyTrekking Tours & Safaris, we are on a mission to curate extraordinary journeys and forge lifelong memories. Our commitment to delivering top-tier adventure experiences, coupled with a deep respect for the natural and cultural wonders of Kilimanjaro and its surroundings, defines our essence.

See it online https://joytrekking.com/trip/machame-route/

Machame Route Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary

Highlights

Itinerary

Arrival in Moshi

Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp

Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate