The Scenic Trail to the Roof of Africa
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route”, is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular trekking paths. It features dramatic landscapes ranging from rainforest to alpine desert and glaciers. The route is recommended for those with some trekking experience and offers good acclimatization opportunities due to its “climb high, sleep low” profile. The 7-day version includes an extra acclimatization day to improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) safely and successfully.
After registration at the gate, begin your trek through lush montane forest. The trail can be muddy but offers beautiful scenery.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 11 km
Accommodation: Machame Camp (Tents)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Ascend through moorland and grassy ridges with stunning views of Kibo Peak. The vegetation thins as you reach Shira Plateau.
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 5 km
Accommodation: Shira Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
This day includes altitude gains and losses to aid acclimatization. Lunch at Lava Tower, then descend to the scenic Barranco Valley.
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 10 km
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Climb the famous Barranco Wall, then cross rolling terrain to reach Karanga Camp.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trek steadily to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit push. Rest and prepare for the early morning climb.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 4 km
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start around midnight. After reaching Stella Point at sunrise, continue to Uhuru Peak. Celebrate, then descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Distance: 17 km
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Final descent through rainforest to the gate. Receive your summit certificate and return to your hotel.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
For a 6-day climb, Days 4 and 5 are combined: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp in one day (skipping Karanga Camp).
All overnights are in high-quality tents at designated campsites, with sleeping mats and professional camp services provided.
“Please note that all these are sample itineraries. We will tailor-make your safari according to your wish and due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel around the world, it is free to postpone your travel up to 1 year after the original travel date”
Destinations: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater
This is just one example of a trip we could design for you. We tailor-make safari holidays that take you to Tanzania – no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch today to start creating your bespoke itinerary
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