8 Days Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing Summit – Machame Route

Route Overview

Machame, known as the “Whiskey” route, is a popular route to the mountain. Compared with Marangu, the days on Machame are longer and the walks are steeper. It is considered a difficult route, better suited for more adventurous folks, and those with some hiking or backpacking experience. Machame approaches from the southwest and descends using Mweka, rewarding climbers with views of the expansive Shira Plateau.
The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a short drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. The path leads hikers through the rain forest to Shira Plateau. Here, many of Kilimanjaro’s routes converge. Then the route turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.

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Route Itinerary

Day 1: Airport pick-up- Drop off at Hotel

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be greeted by our transfer driver guide. They will accompany you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. During the transfer, you will receive a brief orientation about your upcoming climb. Your climbing equipment and necessary kits will also be checked.

Meals: Half board

Day 2: Arusha to Machame Hut Camp (10,000 ft)

After breakfast at your hotel in Arusha, we will pick you up and drive for approximately 1 hour to Machame Gate (10,000 ft) for registration. At the gate, you will meet the rest of the crew, including cooks and porters. After preparations, we will commence the climb through the rainforest and giant heathers, which will take about 6 hours until we reach the Machame Hut Camp.

Meals: Full board

Day 3: Machame Hut Camp to Shira Camp (12,480 ft)

Today’s trek will be shorter but more challenging, with steep and rocky trails. The hike will be at a slow pace with plenty of breaks to allow for acclimatization. The route will be mostly devoid of vegetation, offering little shade from the heat. You will encounter several ridges and witness the presence of Senecias, unique plant species found in the area.

Meals: Full board

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (13,000 ft)

We will begin the day by climbing over boulders and navigating through rocky terrain. Our ascent will lead us to Lava Tower, where we will take a lunch break at around noon. For those interested, there is an optional opportunity to climb Lava Tower itself, which stands at 14,850 ft and may cause a mild headache due to the altitude change. Afterward, we will descend for about 2 hours through dusty and rocky trails until we reach Barranco Camp at 13,000 ft.

Meals: Full board

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley Camp (13,450 ft)

Today, we will scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep section that requires the use of hands for stability, resembling rock climbing but with less difficulty. Once atop the wall, you will have a panoramic view of the Barranco Valley and the campsite where you spent the previous night. We will then trek through the greener valley, which is the last water point on the mountain.

Meals: Full board

Day 6: Karanga Valley Camp to Barafu Hut Camp (14,200 ft)

This will be a short yet steep uphill climb across a barren landscape filled with boulders and shattered rocks. On your left, you will witness the striking Decken Glaciers. As we continue, a very steep ridge will require some scrambling for about 1.5 hours. Finally, we will reach a campsite on large rocks with steep cliff faces. We will retire early in preparation for the summit attempt.

Meals: Full board

Day 7: Summit Day – Barafu Hut to Mweka Hut (10,500 ft)

We will begin our ascent around midnight. The initial stage involves navigating steep rocks for about an hour, after which we will enter a snow-covered area with glaciers above. If the night is illuminated by moonlight, you may even switch off your headlamp and enjoy a moonlit guided walk, creating a truly remarkable experience. The next 2 hours will lead us to Stella Point, and throughout this challenging phase, we will take regular breaks.

Continuing from Stella Point, we will encounter the loose sand-like terrain of the Lava Fields. Although enjoyable, progress can be frustrating as you may slide back slightly with each step. After breakfast, we will embark on a 1-hour hike to reach Uhuru Peak (19,370 ft) just as the sun emerges over the Mawenzi Peaks. Following this achievement, we will begin our descent, initially passing through Stella Point and returning to Barafu Hut Camp.

Meals: Full board

Day 8: Descent and Return to Arusha

The descent from Barafu Hut to the park gate will take approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering a descent of 4,500 feet. At the park gate office, you will complete the check-out process and receive your Kilimanjaro climbing certificate. Afterward, a delicious lunch will be provided, and you will bid farewell to the mountain staff. From there, we will drive through beautiful coffee plantations and small villages inhabited by the Chaga people, returning to Arusha. This will be the perfect time for you to enjoy a refreshing swim, a hot shower, and a well-deserved celebration!

Meals: Half board