Overview

This Machame Route is run by Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, a locally based Tanzanian operator. You climb with experienced mountain guides, porters and cooks, and we plan every detail with you.

Why book this Machame Route with us

First, every Machame Route we run is tailor-made, so we can adjust the dates, accommodation and pace. In addition, our local team supports you from arrival to departure. Before you travel, you can also read about the area on the official Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) website. For more ideas, see our other Kilimanjaro National Park tours.

Experience the adventure of a lifetime on our 6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb via the Machame Route. It is one of the world's most famous treks.

Many people also call it the Whiskey Route. In fact, many consider the Machame Route the most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers spectacular landscapes and diverse ecosystems. You also enjoy panoramic views all the way to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa.

This 6-day Kilimanjaro trekking tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want an exciting and rewarding challenge. The route also follows the "climb high, sleep low" principle. As a result, your body acclimatizes naturally, and your chances of reaching the summit increase.

During the climb, you hike through lush rainforest, giant heather, alpine moorland, volcanic valleys and alpine desert. Finally, you stand on the snow-covered Roof of Africa.

Expert Support on the Mountain

Throughout your climb, our experienced mountain guides, professional cooks and dedicated porters look after your safety, comfort and success. You also enjoy freshly prepared meals, quality camping equipment, daily health checks and expert guidance. Meanwhile, you create unforgettable memories on one of the Seven Summits of the World.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or a first-time climber, the Machame Route offers a great balance of adventure, scenery and summit success.

Itinerary

Day 01 :

Arusha / Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp

Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from Arusha, Moshi, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). Then you drive to Machame Gate (1,800 m).

Next, after registration inside Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, you begin your trek through one of East Africa's most beautiful tropical rainforests.

The trail winds beneath towering ancient trees covered in moss, while giant ferns, colorful flowers and unique wildlife surround you. Meanwhile, your experienced mountain guide introduces you to Kilimanjaro's fascinating ecology, geology and wildlife. For example, you may see blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, colorful birds and plant species found only on the mountain.

After approximately 5–7 hours of hiking, you arrive at Machame Camp (3,000 m). There your support team has your tents ready. Finally, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and relax beneath the spectacular African night sky.

Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Distance: 11 km
Accommodation: Machame Camp
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 02 :

Machame Camp – Shira Camp

After breakfast, you continue climbing above the rainforest into the beautiful heath and moorland zone. Then the landscape changes dramatically, as giant heathers, volcanic rock formations and panoramic mountain views replace the dense forest.

As you approach Shira Camp (3,840 m), breathtaking views of Kibo Peak, Mount Meru and the vast Shira Plateau unfold. In fact, this is one of the most scenic sections of the Machame Route, so bring your camera.

In the evening, relax at camp while you watch an unforgettable sunset over the surrounding mountains. Afterwards, your mountain cook serves another delicious dinner.

Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours
Distance: 5 km
Accommodation: Shira Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 03 :

Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Today's trek is one of the most important for acclimatization. First, hike gradually toward the impressive Lava Tower (4,630 m). While you walk, you cross dramatic alpine landscapes with spectacular views of Kilimanjaro's glaciers and volcanic formations.

After lunch near Lava Tower, you descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m), following the "climb high, sleep low" principle. This descent also helps your body adapt to the altitude. As a result, it greatly improves your chances of reaching the summit.

Towering cliffs and giant senecio plants surround Barranco Camp. So it is one of the most beautiful camps on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Hiking Time: 6–8 Hours
Distance: 10 km
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 04 :

Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

After breakfast, you tackle the famous Barranco Wall, one of Kilimanjaro's most exciting and rewarding sections. Despite its reputation, the climb is non-technical, and your experienced mountain team guides you carefully.

From the top of the wall, enjoy incredible panoramic views of Kibo Peak, glaciers and the surrounding valleys. Then continue across rolling alpine terrain to Karanga Camp (4,035 m).

In the afternoon, rest, drink plenty of water and prepare for the next climb toward base camp. Later, enjoy another spectacular mountain sunset.

Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
Distance: 5 km
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 05 :

Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

After breakfast, climb steadily to Barafu Camp (4,640 m), your final base camp before the summit attempt. Next, you have an early dinner and a few hours of rest. Then, at midnight, you begin your ascent toward Uhuru Peak.

Climb beneath a sky filled with thousands of stars until you reach Stella Point and, finally, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). There you witness a breathtaking African sunrise above the clouds and celebrate standing on the highest point of the continent.

After photos and time to enjoy the views, you descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Later, you continue to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for your final overnight stay.

Hiking Time: 11–15 Hours
Distance: 17 km
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 06 :

Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha / Moshi

Wake up to your final morning on Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy breakfast, surrounded once again by lush rainforest. Then begin your descent along beautiful forest trails filled with birdsong and tropical vegetation.

When you reach Mweka Gate, you receive your official Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate. It celebrates your successful climb to the Roof of Africa. Finally, your driver meets you and takes you back to Arusha, Moshi, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK).

Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch