Kilimanjaro Ascent: The Machame Route

The most spectacular and popular route to reach the summit

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Description of the Machame Route

The Machame Route, nicknamed the "Whisky Route," is the most popular and arguably the most beautiful camping itinerary on Kilimanjaro. It offers exceptionally diverse and beautiful landscapes, crossing all the mountain's ecosystems, from the lush rainforest to the arctic desert of the summit.

Although a demanding trek, its profile allows for excellent gradual acclimatization to altitude, especially on the 7 or 8-day versions. It is the ideal choice for adventurers in good physical condition who are looking for spectacular views.

✔︎ Included

  • Guides, porters & cook
  • Meals & purified water on the mountain
  • Quality camping equipment
  • All transportation and park fees
  • Hyperbaric chamber & oxygen

Excluded

  • International flights and visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal equipment (rental possible)
  • Hotels before/after the trek
  • Tips for the team
Starting from
$1582
per person (6-day trek)

This price is an estimate. All our treks are 100% tailor-made.

Personalize this trek
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1

Start of the Trek in the Rainforest

After completing formalities at Machame Gate (1490m), you will venture into one of the most beautiful rainforests in the world. The ascent is gradual, and the trail can be muddy at times. The atmosphere is magical, with moss-covered trees and a chance to spot Colobus monkeys.

📏 Distance: 11 km
⏱️ Time: 5-7 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 1490 to 2980m

Accommodation:

  • Night in tent 🏕 Machame Camp️
Kilimanjaro rainforest
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2

Trek to Shira Plateau

The day begins with a steeper climb that takes you out of the forest. You cross a moorland zone before reaching the spectacular Shira Plateau. The views of Mount Meru and Kibo are magnificent. You will camp at Shira 2 Camp, in the middle of a grandiose landscape.

📏 Distance: 5 km
⏱️ Time: 4-6 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 2980m to 3840m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a tent 🏕 Shira Camp️
Shira Plateau on Kilimanjaro
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3

Acclimatization via Lava Tower

An essential day for acclimatization. You will progressively climb up to Lava Tower (4600m) where you will have lunch, before descending towards the magnificent Barranco Camp (3950m). This "climb high, sleep low" principle is the key to a successful ascent. The camp is located at the foot of the impressive Barranco Wall.

📏 Distance: 10 km
⏱️ Time: 6-8 hours
🏔️ Altitude: Climb to 4630m, then descend to 3950m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a tent 🏕 Barranco Camp️
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4

The Barranco Wall and Arrival at Base Camp

The day begins with the exciting but easy climb of the Barranco Wall. Once at the top, the trail winds through alpine valleys before a final ascent to Barafu ("ice") Base Camp. The early arrival allows for maximum rest before the nighttime ascent to the summit.

📏 Distance: 9 km
⏱️ Time: 6-8 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 3950m to 4550m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a tent 🏕 Barafu Camp️
Barafu Base Camp on Kilimanjaro
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5

The Final Ascent and the Great Descent

This is the big day! We'll start in the middle of the night for a slow but steady ascent to the summit. The sunrise over the glaciers from Stella Point is a magical moment that will give you the strength for the final hour to Uhuru Peak (5895m). After celebrating, a long descent awaits you down to Mweka Camp, in the forest.

📏 Distance: 17 km
⏱️ Time: 10-14 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 4630m to 5895m, then descending to 3100m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a tent 🏕 Mweka Camp️
Sunrise at Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro summit
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6

Final Descent and Celebration

Your last hike is a pleasant descent through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate. This is where you will receive your official ascent certificate and say goodbye to your amazing team. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel for a well-deserved hot shower and rest.

📏 Distance: 10 km
⏱️ Time: 3-4 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 3100m to 1980m

Accommodation:

  • Night at a hotel in Moshi/Arusha
End of the trek at Mweka Gate
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Preparation: Key to Your Success

When to Go? (The Seasons Chart)

The best period for the ascent is during the dry seasons. Here is a complete overview:

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Feb
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May
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Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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WET SEASON
DRY SEASON
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What Essential Gear to Bring?

Good gear is crucial. We will provide you with a detailed list, but here are the essentials:

Technical Clothing

  • 3-layer system: thermal base layer, fleece, waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex type).
  • Trekking pants and waterproof overpants.
  • Warm down jacket for the summit.
  • Beanie, warm gloves, neck gaiter.

Trekking Equipment

  • High-top, waterproof hiking boots that are already broken in.
  • Daypack (30-40L).
  • Telescopic trekking poles.
  • Headlamp with spare batteries.
  • Glacier sunglasses and 50+ SPF sunscreen.
What Physical Preparation is Needed?

No need to be a top athlete, but good physical condition is necessary. The ascent is a marathon, not a sprint. We recommend starting training at least 2 to 3 months before departure, focusing on:

  • Cardio: Running, cycling, swimming (2-3 times a week).
  • Hiking: Go on multi-hour hikes with elevation changes to get your body used to prolonged effort and to test your gear.
Entry Formalities (Passport & Visa)

Passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. It must also have at least two consecutive blank pages.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa) - The Recommended Way

A visa is mandatory. The simplest and safest method is to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) online before your departure. The cost is **50 US dollars**. Use only the official government website: visa.immigration.go.tz

Health & Recommended Vaccinations

Your health is our priority. You must consult your doctor or an international vaccination center 4 to 6 weeks before your departure.

Yellow Fever: The yellow fever vaccine is not mandatory for travelers coming from Europe, unless you have transited for more than 12 hours in a country where the disease is endemic (e.g., Kenya, Ethiopia...).

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Updates on universal vaccines (Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio).
  • Hepatitis A and Typhoid Fever (related to food and water).

Malaria

Malaria is present in Tanzania. An antimalarial treatment (prophylaxis) is strongly recommended. Also protect yourself from mosquito bites with appropriate repellents for tropical areas, long clothing in the evening, and a mosquito net (provided in all good accommodations).

What to Pack for a Safari?

We advise light clothing in neutral colors for the safari, and warm clothes for mornings and evenings. Don't forget a hat, high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and a pair of binoculars! A small personal first-aid kit is also recommended.

Our #1 Commitment: Your Safety

Adventure is exhilarating, but your safety remains our absolute priority at every stage of the ascent. We make no compromises on the measures implemented to ensure your well-being.

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Certified First Aid Guides

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Emergency Oxygen on Every Trek

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Satellite Communication & Tracking

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High-Energy Meals & Purified Water

Ready to Take on the Machame Route Challenge?

Our team of experts is ready to answer all your questions and start creating your tailor-made ascent.

Receive a personalized quote

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