9 Days Machame Route

9 Days Machame Route

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey” route, is renowned for its challenging terrain and higher cost compared to the Marangu Route. It’s ideal for experienced hikers seeking a rewarding adventure with excellent acclimatization opportunities. This route features diverse landscapes, passing through five climatic zones and iconic sights like the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and Barranco Wall. Though popular and sometimes crowded, the Machame Route offers stunning scenery and a demanding trek that provides a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience.

Tour Plan

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and meet our representative for a transfer to your hotel. The hotel offers cozy rooms, hot water, friendly staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, attend a briefing with our managers to prepare for your climb. Private tour packages include shared airport transfers for your group. To avoid extra costs, coordinate your group’s arrival and departure times.
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Machame Gate, the starting point of your trek. Once at the gate, complete the necessary registration and obtain your permits. Begin your hike through the lush rainforest, which takes about 5-6 hours. The trail ascends gradually, leading you to Machame Camp. Settle into your camp, enjoy a hearty meal, and rest for the night in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
After a filling breakfast at Machame Camp, start your trek towards Shira Camp. This hike takes about 4-6 hours and ascends steadily, leading you through the moorland zone with its unique vegetation. As you climb, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching Shira Camp, set up your tents, have a warm meal, and take some time to relax and acclimate to the higher altitude.
Begin your day with breakfast at Shira Camp before setting out on a trek to Lava Tower. The hike to Lava Tower takes about 4-5 hours and ascends through alpine desert terrain. Enjoy the impressive rock formations and panoramic views. After a rest and some photos at Lava Tower, descend to Barranco Camp, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. The descent helps with acclimatization. Arrive at Barranco Camp, where you’ll set up your tents, enjoy a meal, and prepare for the next day’s climb.
Start your day with breakfast at Barranco Camp before tackling the ascent of Barranco Wall, a steep and impressive climb that takes about 1-2 hours. Once at the top, enjoy stunning views and a brief rest. Continue your trek towards Karanga Camp, which involves a mix of ascents and descents. The hike to Karanga Camp takes approximately 4-5 hours. Settle into your camp, have a warm meal, and relax while preparing for the next day’s climb.
After a hearty breakfast at Karanga Camp, start your hike towards Barafu Camp. The trek takes around 4-5 hours and involves a steady ascent through alpine desert terrain. As you approach Barafu Camp, you’ll notice the changing landscape as you get closer to the summit. Upon arrival, set up your tents, have a warm meal, and rest. Prepare for the final summit push, ensuring you get plenty of rest and are ready for the climb to Uhuru Peak later that night.
Begin your final ascent from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak in the early hours, typically around midnight to 2:00 AM. The climb to the summit takes approximately 6-8 hours and involves challenging, high-altitude conditions. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, take in the breathtaking views and celebrate your achievement before starting your descent. Return to Barafu Camp to rest briefly, then continue your descent to Mweka Camp. The trek from Barafu to Mweka Camp takes about 5-7 hours. Arrive at Mweka Camp, set up your tents, enjoy a well-deserved meal, and rest as you wind down from your summit climb.
After breakfast at Mweka Camp, start your final descent to Mweka Gate. The hike takes about 3-4 hours through lush rainforest. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, complete your exit formalities and receive your summit certificate. A transfer will then take you back to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day to relax, reflect on your achievement, and celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro climb.
After breakfast, Transfer to Kilimanjaro airport for your departure flight back home.
  • Mountain Crew: Professional team with fair wages as per KINAPA and KIATO standards
  • Permits and Fees: Kilimanjaro National Park permits and camping/hut fees
  • Meals and Equipment: 3 daily meals, modern tents, warm sleeping pads, first aid kit, and group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery, cutlery)
  • Optional Facilities: Portable flush toilets available upon request
  • Post-Climb: Meeting at the park exit, return transportation from Moshi to/from the starting/finish point on the mountain, International ascent certificates
  • Flight tickets
  • Visa fees
  • Personal gear rental
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Laundry services
  • Tips for the mountain crew
  • Airport Transfers
  • Pre and post night accommodation.

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