Description
The Machame Route, affectionately known as the “Whiskey” route, offers a more challenging yet incredibly scenic journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Unlike the Marangu Route’s hut accommodations, the Machame Route embraces the spirit of adventure with camping under the stars, providing an immersive mountain experience. Typically completed in 6 to 7 days, this route allows for better acclimatization and boasts a higher success rate. It’s favored by many for its stunning vistas and varied landscapes. Here’s a comprehensive itinerary for conquering Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route.
Why Choose the Machame Route?
- Scenic Variety: Offers some of the most spectacular scenery with diverse habitats.
- Acclimatization: The “climb high, sleep low” principle aids acclimatization, with a higher success rate.
- Adventure: Camping along the route provides an authentic wilderness experience.
- Challenge: More demanding than the Marangu Route, offering a sense of achievement for those who reach the summit.
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Altitude: 1,800m to 3,000m
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: About 11 km
Activities: The journey begins at Machame Gate, proceeding through lush rainforest with opportunities to see diverse wildlife. The day ends at Machame Camp, set in a stunning heathland area with views of Mt. Meru on a clear day.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Altitude: 3,000m to 3,840m
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: About 5 km
Activities: Ascend through the heathland, observing the dramatic change in vegetation. The route offers panoramic views as it approaches Shira Camp, situated on a plateau that offers a broad view of the mountain.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Altitude: 3,840m to 4,630m (Lava Tower) down to 3,950m
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: About 10 km
Activities: This crucial acclimatization day includes a climb to the Lava Tower before descending to the scenic Barranco Camp. The camp is known for the Barranco Wall, offering spectacular views of the Western Breach and Mount Meru.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Altitude: 3,950m to 3,995m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: About 5 km
Activities: Tackle the Barranco Wall in the morning, then traverse valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp. This day is short, aiding acclimatization while offering stunning views and a challenging climb.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Altitude: 3,995m to 4,673m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: About 4 km
Activities: The path to Barafu Camp crosses alpine desert terrain, with sparse vegetation and rocky landscapes. Barafu Camp is the staging point for the summit attempt, with rest and preparation for the night ascent.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Altitude: 4,673m to 5,895m (Summit) down to 3,100m
Hiking Time: 11-14 hours
Distance: About 5 km ascent and 12 km descent
Activities: Begin the summit attempt around midnight, reaching Stella Point in time for sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After summiting, descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 7 (Optional Day 6 if fast pace): Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Altitude: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: About 10 km
Activities: The final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where climbers receive their summit certificates. Transfer back to Arusha or Moshi.
- Camping accommodations throughout the climb
- All meals and water on the climb
- Professional guide, porters, and cook services
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Transfer to and from Machame Gate
