9 Days Kilimanjaro
Machame Route
Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular trails to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft). This 8-day trek provides excellent acclimatization, with a climb-high, sleep-low approach, increasing summit success rates. The route offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a challenging but rewarding trek.

Itinerary
Upon landing at the airport, you'll be whisked away to your hotel, marking the start of your Tanzanian adventure. Here, you will meet your guide who will provide a comprehensive briefing on the incredible journey ahead. Afterward, take the time to rest or explore the vibrant city of Arusha, known as the gateway to Tanzania's world-renowned national parks. The hotel staff will be more than happy to recommend exciting activities and hidden gems around the area, ensuring you have a memorable first day in this beautiful country.
Meals - Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
Embark on an epic adventure starting from the Machame Gate to Machame Camp. This first
stage introduces you to the mesmerizing beauty of Kilimanjaro's lush landscapes. As you
start your trek, the vibrant flora and fauna of the region greet you, offering a hint of the
diverse ecosystems you'll encounter. The path gradually ascends, challenging yet
rewarding, with experienced guides ensuring your safety and enhancing your understanding
of the local environment. This guided Kilimanjaro tour is your first step towards reaching
Uhuru Peak, promising a journey filled with awe-inspiring views, personal achievement, and
the beginning of a transformative experience that will leave lasting memories.
Hike - 10km | 5-7 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Machame Camp 3020m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
On the second stage of your Kilimanjaro adventure, you transition from Machame Camp to the expansive vistas at Shira Cave Camp. This segment of your journey invites you to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Mount Kilimanjaro, as the trail takes you across diverse terrains that challenge and inspire. You'll witness a dramatic change in scenery, from dense rainforest to the open moorlands of the Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views that stretch beyond the horizon. Your expert guides lead the way, ensuring a seamless Kilimanjaro trekking experience, while you acclimatise to the altitude, setting the stage for the adventures that lie ahead. Each step brings you closer to the peak, with the promise of new discoveries and personal triumphs.
Hike - 5km | 4-6 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Shira Cave Camp 3870m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stage 3 takes you from Shira Cave to Barranco Camp via the Lava Tower. This crucial part of your journey emphasizes altitude acclimatisation, ascending to the tower's challenging heights before descending to rest. The route offers stunning views and a glimpse into Kilimanjaro's volcanic origins. Descending to Barranco Camp, you'll face the majestic Barranco Wall, setting the stage for the next day's adventure. This segment combines physical challenge with the beauty of nature, under the guidance of seasoned experts ensuring a safe and memorable experience.
Hike - 10km | 6-8 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Barranco Camp 4200m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your adventure on Kilimanjaro continues with the ascent from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp, a day highlighted by the exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall. This climb is less about altitude gain and more about embracing the challenge, offering a hands-on experience with the mountain's unique terrain. Successfully reaching the top of the wall rewards you with breathtaking views, marking a memorable achievement in your journey. The path onward to Karanga Camp allows for reflection and recovery, preparing you for the adventures that lie ahead. Throughout this stage, expert guides are by your side, ensuring safety and enriching your experience with their knowledge of Kilimanjaro.
Hike - 8km | 6-8 hours
Highlight - Lava Tower
Accommodation(overnight) - Karanga Camp 3960m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The journey from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp is your final ascent before the summit bid, threading through alpine deserts towards the zenith of Kilimanjaro. This stretch is a true test of endurance, as the air grows thinner and the landscape unveils the stark, raw beauty of towering altitudes. Arriving at Barafu Camp marks a significant milestone, offering a moment to rest and mentally prepare for the challenging climb to Uhuru Peak. Situated on a desolate ridge, the campsite provides a serene setting under a starlit sky, perfect for contemplation before the summit attempt. Here, your guides become your pillars of strength, readying you with crucial advice and motivation, as you stand on the verge of reaching the roof of Africa.
Hike - 4km | 4-5 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Barafu Camp 3960m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The final push to Uhuru Peak begins in the early hours, under the cloak of night. This stage is the most challenging yet rewarding part of your Kilimanjaro hike. Ascending in the dark, guided by headlamps and the expertise of your guides, you'll navigate steep scree and winding paths. The goal is to reach the summit at sunrise, where you'll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of Africa awakening below. After savoring the success and panoramic views at Uhuru Peak, the journey leads you down to Mweka Camp. This descent is a gentle reminder of the mountain's vastness and diversity. It's a day of reflection on the achievement and the personal transformation endured throughout this incredible expedition. Your safety and well-being remain a top priority, with guides ensuring a steady pace and ample rest.
Hike - 17km | 11-14 hours
Summit - Uhuru Peak
Accommodation(overnight) - Mweka Camp 3060m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The final leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure brings you from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, marking the completion of an epic journey. This descent through lush rainforests is a gentle yet poignant reminder of the mountain's diverse ecosystems. The path, filled with the sounds of chirping birds and the fresh scent of wet earth, offers a serene backdrop for reflection on the accomplishments of the past days. When you reach Mweka Gate, you'll feel a sense of achievement. You'll have overcome the challenges of Kilimanjaro and made memories that will last a lifetime. Your guides, ever-present, ensure a smooth transition from the mountain's heights back to the comforts of civilization, closing the chapter on an unforgettable expedition.
Hike - 9km | 3-4 hours
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
Enjoy a last delicious breakfast as the rising sun bathes the surrounding landscape in golden alight. Relive the great memories of the past few days. Your driver will transfer you to the airport on time. Please note that this does not have to be the end of your trip. You always have the option to combine your Tanzania trip with another tour. We wish you a pleasant flight and goodbye.
Meals - Breakfast
Explore Tanzania`s Beauty
Exclusively set apart from the rest, we focus on giving you life affirming and intimately designed experiences throughout Africa. We have safari packages that will suit your needs and budget, We also curate tailor-made safari itineraries. Travel with us today!