Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Machame Route

Group Size: Based on Minimum of 2 assengers
Departures: Scheduled departures throughout the year (private departures available)
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The Ultimate Guide to the Machame Route: Climbing Kilimanjaro’s Scenic Whiskey Route

The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic paths to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and high success rate for reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). Here’s an overview of the Machame Route:

Key Features of the Machame Route

1. Duration: Typically 6-7 days (7 days is recommended for better acclimatization).

2. Difficulty: Considered challenging due to steep sections and varied terrain.

3. Scenery: Offers breathtaking views, including rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.

4. Traffic: Popular and can be busy, especially during peak climbing seasons.

5. Success Rate: Higher success rate compared to shorter routes due to better acclimatization.

Best Time to Climb the Machame Route

The best times to climb the Machame Route are during Kilimanjaro’s dry seasons:

• January to March: Clear skies and cooler temperatures.

• June to October: Stable weather and excellent visibility.

Avoid the rainy seasons (April-May and November) to prevent slippery trails and poor visibility.

Machame Route Success Rate and Features

• 7-day itinerary: 85–90% (one of the highest success rates on Kilimanjaro).

• 6-day itinerary: 70–75%.

The 7-day option has a higher success rate due to better acclimatization.

6 Days vs. 7 Days Machame Route: Which Kilimanjaro Itinerary is Right for You?

The Machame Route is one of the most popular paths to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, offering stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and a high success rate. However, one of the biggest decisions climbers face is whether to choose the 6-day or 7-day itinerary. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your fitness level, experience, and acclimatization needs. In this guide, we’ll compare the two itineraries to help you decide which one is best for your Kilimanjaro adventure.

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Key Differences: 6 Days vs. 7 Days

Aspect	6-Day Machame Route	7-Day Machame Route
Duration	Shorter, faster-paced	Longer, more gradual
Acclimatization	Less time for acclimatization	Better acclimatization with an extra day
Success Rate	Lower due to faster ascent	Higher due to better acclimatization
Physical Demand	More strenuous, longer hiking days	Less strenuous, shorter daily hikes
Cost	Slightly cheaper (fewer days on the mountain)	Slightly more expensive
Experience Level	Best for experienced hikers	Suitable for most climbers, including beginners

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Pros and Cons of Each Itinerary

6-Day Machame Route

Pros:

• Shorter duration: Ideal for those with limited time.

• Lower cost: Fewer days on the mountain reduce overall expenses.

• Challenging: Perfect for experienced hikers seeking a tougher climb.

Cons:

• Less acclimatization: Higher risk of altitude sickness.

• Lower success rate: Faster ascent reduces chances of summiting.

• More physically demanding: Longer hiking days can be exhausting.

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7-Day Machame Route

Pros:

• Better acclimatization: Extra day improves adaptation to altitude.

• Higher success rate: Gradual ascent increases chances of reaching the summit.

• Less strenuous: Shorter daily hikes reduce physical strain.

Cons:

• Longer duration: Requires more time off work or other commitments.

• Higher cost: Additional day increases overall expenses.

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Choose the 6-Day Machame Route if:

• You’re an experienced hiker with prior high-altitude trekking experience.

• You have limited time and need a shorter itinerary.

• You’re confident in your physical fitness and ability to acclimatize quickly.

Choose the 7-Day Machame Route if:

• You’re a beginner or intermediate hiker.

• You want to maximize your chances of reaching the summit.

• You prefer a more gradual ascent with better acclimatization.

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9 DAYS CLIMBING KILIMANJARO – MACHAME ROUTE IN 7 DAYS

The 7-day Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it is more challenging than the Marangu Route but offers stunning views and a higher success rate due to better acclimatization. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 9-day climbing Kilimanjaro – Machame Route in 7-day itinerary, including daily activities, key considerations, and tips for a successful climb.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport

• Activity: Transfer to the base hotel.

• Details:

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your base hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

  • Attend a briefing with your guide to discuss the climb, safety measures, and answer any questions.

  • Tip: Use this time to double-check your gear and ensure you have all necessary equipment for the climb.

Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

• Elevation: 1,800m (5,905ft) to 3,000m (9,840ft).

• Distance: 11km (7 miles).

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours.

• Habitat: Rainforest.

• Details:

  • After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate for registration and meet your guides and porters.

  • Begin the trek through lush rainforest, with opportunities to spot wildlife.

  • Arrive at Machame Camp for overnight stay.

  • Tip: Stay hydrated and enjoy the rainforest scenery. Pace yourself to conserve energy.

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

• Elevation: 3,000m (9,840ft) to 3,840m (12,600ft).

• Distance: 5km (3 miles).

• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours.

• Habitat: Moorland.

• Details:

  • Trek through the heath zone, with views of lava tubes and glacial valleys.

  • Arrive at Shira Camp, located on the Shira Plateau.

  • Tip: Pay attention to your body’s response to altitude. Report any signs of altitude sickness to your guide immediately.

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

• Elevation: 3,840m (12,600ft) to 3,950m (12,960ft).

• Distance: 10km (6 miles).

• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Trek through alpine desert, with an optional ascent to Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190ft) for acclimatization.

  • Descend to Barranco Camp, located at the base of the Barranco Wall.

  • Tip: Use this day to acclimatize properly. Drink plenty of water and rest for the challenging days ahead.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Elevation: 3,950m (12,960ft) to 4,100m (13,450ft).

• Distance: 5km (3 miles).

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Ascend the Barranco Wall and trek through glacial valleys to Karanga Camp.

  • Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.

  • Tip: Take advantage of the shorter hiking day to rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 4,100m (13,450ft) to 4,600m (15,090ft).

• Distance: 4km (2.5 miles).

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Trek to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt.

  • Rest and prepare for the midnight summit push.

  • Tip: Eat well and stay hydrated. Sleep early to prepare for the long night ahead.

Day 7: Summit Day (Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp)

• Elevation: 4,600m (15,090ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) and back to 3,100m (10,170ft).

• Distance: 17km (10.5 miles) round trip.

• Hiking Time: 12-16 hours.

• Habitat: Arctic Zone.

• Details:

  • Begin the summit attempt at midnight, trekking steep scree slopes to Stella Point (5,685m / 18,650ft) on the crater rim.

  • Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft), the highest point in Africa.

  • After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp for the night.

  • Tip: Dress warmly in layers for the summit attempt. Take small, steady steps and follow your guide’s pace.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation: 3,100m (10,170ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft).

• Distance: 10km (6 miles).

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.

• Habitat: Rainforest.

• Details:

  • Descend through montane forest to Mweka Gate.

  • Receive your summit certificate (for those who reached Stella Point or Uhuru Peak).

  • Transfer back to the base hotel for a hot shower and celebratory dinner.

  • Tip: Celebrate your achievement and rest after the strenuous climb.

Day 9: Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport

• Activity: Departure.

• Details:

  • After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.

  • Tip: Reflect on your incredible experience and share your stories with fellow climbers!

Kilimanjaro National Park Fees (7-Day Machame Route)

7-Day Machame Route Pricing and Services

The total cost of climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route depends on the group size and the services provided by the tour operator. Below is a typical price breakdown for the 7-day Machame Route:

What’s Included in the Price?

The price typically covers the following services:

1. Meals: 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 8 dinners.

2. Accommodation: 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Marangu and 6 nights of fully supported camping on a twin-share basis.

3. Group Camping Equipment: Tents (sleeping bags and mats not included – can be hired locally).

4. Guides and Porters: Experienced local mountain guides, cooks, and camp crew, as well as porters to carry personal and group equipment.

5. Park Fees: Park entrance fees valued at USD 968.

6. Safety Equipment: Emergency oxygen.

7. Transportation: Transfers between the airport, hotel, and Machame Gate.

What’s Not Included?

The following are typically not included in the price:

1. Flights: International or domestic flights to/from Kilimanjaro.

2. Arrival/Departure Transfers: Transfers in Arusha.

3. Sleeping Bags and Mats: Can be hired locally.

4. Beverages: Aerated and alcoholic drinks.

5. Personal Expenses: Phone calls, laundry, etc.

6. Tips: For guides, porters, and camp crew.

7. Airport and Departure Taxes: Any applicable taxes.

8. Visa: Tanzania tourist visa (approximately USD 50-100, depending on nationality).

9. Travel Insurance: Mandatory for emergency medical and evacuation coverage.

10. Meals Not Mentioned: Meals not included in the itinerary.

Costs of Additional Services