The Machame route, often referred to as the Whiskey route due to its challenging nature, stands out as the most popular choice among the seven main routes for ascending Mount Kilimanjaro. Approximately half of all climbers opt for this route, and this preference is well-founded. While the climb on the Machame route presents a significant challenge, it is not overwhelmingly difficult. What truly sets it apart is the breathtaking scenery it offers, combined with a unique approach of ascending to higher altitudes during the day and descending to lower altitudes for sleeping at night.
In contrast to the gradual incline and hut accommodations found on the Marangu Route, those who embark on the Machame hike will encounter steeper trails over more extended distances and will spend their nights in tents. Despite these added challenges, the Machame route remains an outstanding choice for those seeking to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro.
DAY 01
The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate typically lasts around 45 minutes, while it takes approximately 1.5 hours if you're coming from Arusha. This route takes you through the charming village of Machame, nestled on the lower slopes of the mountain.
Once you've reached the park gate, your journey on foot begins. You'll follow a winding trail that leads you through the lush rainforest, ascending along a ridge. At lower elevations, the trail can become quite muddy and slippery, making it advisable to equip yourself with gaiters and trekking poles for added stability. Your hike continues for a short distance until you arrive at the Machame Camp.
Elevation: 1830m / 6000ft to 3050m / 9950ft
Distance: 11km / 7mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 02
The Machame Route, often chosen by seasoned trekkers, is celebrated for its demanding ascent and stunning scenery. As you ascend through various climatic zones, from lush rainforests to arid alpine deserts, you'll experience the full spectrum of Kilimanjaro's ecological diversity.
After breakfast we leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the valley along a steep rocky ridge. The route now turns west onto a river gorge until we arrive at the Shira campsite.
Elevation: 3050m / 9950ft to 3850m / 12,600ft
Distance: 5km / 3mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 03
From the Shira Plateau, our trek proceeds eastward along a ridge, bypassing the junction leading to the Kibo Peak. Continuing on, our path veers towards the southeast, guiding us to the Lava Tower, affectionately known as the "Shark's Tooth" (elevation 4,650 meters or 15,250 feet). After a brief time at the tower, we reach another junction that branches off to the Arrow Glacier. Our route now descends towards the Barranco Camp. Although the day concludes at a similar elevation to where we began, it's a crucial step for acclimatization, preparing your body for the challenges of the summit day ahead.
Elevation: 3850m / 12,600ft to 4000m / 13,000ft
Distance:10km / 6mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi - Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 04
Following breakfast, we bid farewell to Barranco and embark on our ascent along a challenging ridge, which leads us up the formidable Barranco Wall (elevation 4,250 meters or 13,900 feet). Our journey then takes us through the picturesque Karanga Valley, situated at an elevation of 4,050 meters (13,250 feet), until we reach the intersection that links with the Mweka Trail. From there, we continue our climb to the Barafu Camp. At this point, you will have completed the South Circuit, a route that grants you captivating glimpses of the summit from various angles. As we set up camp, you'll be treated to views of the distant summit, a reminder of the ultimate goal we're striving to achieve.
Elevation: 4700m / 15,500ft to 5895m / 9,340ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 05
In the very early hours, typically between midnight and 2 am, our journey to the summit persists. We navigate through a narrow corridor flanked by the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, ascending in a northwesterly direction. This arduous leg of the trek takes us up steep scree slopes, pushing both mental and physical endurance to the limit. Upon reaching Stella Point on the rim of the crater, a well-deserved pause awaits, and the reward is nothing short of spectacular—a sunrise of unparalleled magnificence. For those moving swiftly, catching the sunrise from the summit is entirely within reach.
Beyond Stella Point, the terrain may be blanketed in snow for the approximately one-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak. Here, you stand atop Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point on the continent of Africa—an achievement of monumental proportions.
Following the summit triumph, our descent commences, taking us directly down to the Mweka Camp, with a brief stopover at Barafu for lunch. As the terrain shifts to loose gravel, gaiters and trekking poles may prove beneficial for the descent. We finally arrive at the Mweka Camp, marking our last night on this awe-inspiring mountain.
Elevation: 4700m / 15,350ft to 5895m / 19,340ft
Down to 3090m / 10,150ft
Distance: 5km / 3mi Up / 13km / 8mi down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and Ice-Capped Summit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 06
After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
Cajanus Safaris & Accommodations vehicle will be waiting for you at Mweka gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha .
Elevation: 3090m / 10,150ft to 1680m / 5500ft
Distance: 10km / 6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
