Machame Route — Scenic Kilimanjaro Trek
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic trails on Kilimanjaro. It offers varied landscapes, excellent acclimatisation, and a high summit success rate.
About Machame Route
Description:
Machame is a moderately challenging route with stunning views and varied terrain from rainforest to alpine desert. Camps are positioned to help acclimatise, enhancing your summit success. Tented camping adds a traditional trekking experience.
Landscape & Highlights
- Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert
- Scenic views from Shira Plateau and Lava Tower
- Excellent acclimatisation profile
- Tented camps
- Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak
- Less crowded than Marangu
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival & Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Arrival at Machame Gate (~1,790 m). Trek through rainforest to Machame Camp (~2,835 m). Distance: 11 km, 5–7 hours.
Day 2 — Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Climb out of rainforest into moorland, reaching Shira 1 (~3,505 m) and Shira Camp 2 (~3,840 m). Distance: 5–8 km, 4–6 hours.
Day 3 — Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Ascend to Lava Tower (~4,630 m) for acclimatisation, then descend to Barranco Camp (~3,950 m). Distance: 10–12 km, 6–8 hours.
Day 4 — Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Climb the Barranco Wall (~4,100 m) and continue to Karanga Camp (~4,035 m). Distance: 5 km, 4–5 hours.
Day 5 — Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Ascend through rocky terrain to Barafu Camp (~4,600 m). Distance: 5 km, 4–5 hours.
Day 6 — Summit: Barafu to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Start at midnight to reach Uhuru Peak (~5,895 m) at sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp (~3,100 m). Distance: 12–14 km, 10–14 hours.
Day 7 — Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Final descent to Mweka Gate (~1,640 m) and transfer to hotel. Distance: 10 km, 3–5 hours.
Best Time to Climb
June–October and December–March offer stable weather and clear skies. Avoid March–May rains.
Practical Tips
- Bring warm clothing for summit nights.
- Pack light but include layers for cold and rain.
- Hydrate and pace yourself to prevent altitude sickness.
- Guided trekking recommended for safety and logistics.