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The Machame Route is one of the most popular paths up Kilimanjaro, often known as the “Whiskey Route” due to its steeper and more challenging sections. It’s known for its stunning scenery, including views of the Shira Plateau and the Barranco Wall. The route also provides excellent acclimatization, helping climbers adjust to the altitude more effectively.
11 km
5 – 6 h
The journey begins with a drive to the Machame Gate for registration before entering the lush montane rainforest. You will spend about 5 – 6 hours trekking through dense vegetation, listening to the sounds of tropical birds and potentially spotting Colobus monkeys. The day ends at Machame Camp, situated at the forest's edge, where youʼll have your first dinner on the mountain.
Leaving the forest behind, the trail becomes steeper as you ascend into the moorland zone. You will cross a valley and follow a rocky ridge covered in heather and volcanic rock. After 4 - 5 hours of hiking, you reach the Shira Plateau, which offers expansive views of the mountainʼs Western Breach and the glaciers above.
5 km
4 – 5 h
10 km
6 – 7 h
This is a critical "climb high, sleep low" day for acclimatization. You will trek across the high desert toward the massive volcanic plug known as Lava Tower (4,630m). After a lunch break at this high altitude, you descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley, passing through forests of giant Senecio plants to reach Barranco Camp for the night.
The day starts with the famous "scramble" up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that rewards you with spectacular views from the top. The trail then moves through a series of valleys and ridges before arriving at Karanga Camp. This shorter day is designed to allow for further rest and acclimatization before the final push.
5 km
4 – 5 h
4 km
4 – 5 h
You will continue your ascent through the alpine desert, moving toward the base of the summit cone at Barafu Camp. The terrain is bleak and rocky with little vegetation. You will arrive in the early afternoon, giving you time to eat an early dinner and rest as much as possible before the midnight summit attempt.
Summit day begins around midnight. In the freezing dark, you will trek up heavy scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. After witnessing a magnificent sunrise, you make the final hour-long push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, you begin a long descent back to Barafu for lunch and then continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night.
18 km
12 h
10 km
3 – 4 h
On the final day, you will complete the descent through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate. The air becomes warmer and more oxygen-rich as you walk. At the gate, you will sign out and receive your summit certificates before being driven back to your hotel for a long-awaited hot shower and celebration.