MACHAME 6 DAYS
From USD 1,658 per person
Nicknamed the “Whiskey” route for its challenging terrain and higher cost compared to Marangu, the Machame Route is ideal for adventurous trekkers with some hiking or backpacking experience.
This route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends via the Mweka Route, offering stunning views of the Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, a climb up the Great Barranco Wall, and a traverse beneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging; steeper than Marangu and Rongai in some sections but easier overall.
Scenery: Scenic and varied, passing through five diverse climatic zones.
Acclimatization: Excellent, with plenty of “walk high, sleep low” opportunities.
Popularity: Very popular; expect other trekkers along the trail.
Highlights: Split pre-summit climbs to allow rest, rewarding views, and a memorable adventure.
A taste of what to expect…
Day 1: Hotel to Machame Camp
The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate takes about 45 minutes, passing through the charming village of Machame on Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes.
From the gate, we enter the rainforest and follow a winding trail up a ridge. Trails at lower elevations can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. After a steady climb, we arrive at Machame Camp for the night.
Elevation: 1,830 m / 6,000 ft → 3,050 m / 9,950 ft
Distance: 11 km / 7 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 h
Habitat: Montane forest
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
After breakfast, we leave the lush rainforest glades and ascend along a steep, rocky ridge, crossing the valley as we climb. The trail then turns west, following a river gorge until we reach Shira Camp.
Elevation: 3,050 m / 9,950 ft → 3,850 m / 12,600 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 mi
Hiking Time: 4–5 h
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
From the Shira Plateau, we head east along a ridge, passing the junction toward Kibo Peak. Our trail then turns southeast to the Lava Tower, nicknamed the “Shark’s Tooth” (4,650 m / 15,250 ft). Shortly after, we reach the second junction toward Arrow Glacier before descending to Barranco Camp.
Although the day ends at nearly the same elevation as it began, this trek is crucial for acclimatization, helping your body adjust in preparation for summit day.
Elevation: 3,850 m / 12,600 ft → 4,000 m / 13,000 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 h
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
After breakfast, we leave Barranco Camp and ascend the Barranco Wall (4,250 m / 13,900 ft), continuing through the Karanga Valley (4,050 m / 13,250 ft) to the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. From there, we climb to Barafu Camp.
On this South Circuit segment, you enjoy spectacular views of the summit from multiple angles. At Barafu Camp, we settle in for the night with the summit visible in the distance, preparing for the final ascent.
Elevation: 4,000 m / 13,000 ft → 4,700 m / 15,350 ft
Distance: 9 km / 6 mi
Hiking Time: 6–8 h
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
Very early in the morning (midnight–2 AM), we begin the final ascent between the Rebmann and Ratzel Glaciers, heading northwest through heavy scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging part of the trek. At Stella Point, we take a short rest and are rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise. Faster hikers may see the sunrise from the summit.
From Stella Point, snow may cover the trail during the 1-hour climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in Africa.
After summiting, we begin our descent straight to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu Camp for lunch. Trekking poles and gaiters are recommended for the loose gravel on the way down. We arrive at Mweka Camp in the evening to enjoy our final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 4,700 m / 15,350 ft → 5,895 m / 19,340 ft (summit), down to 3,090 m / 10,150 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 mi up, 13 km / 8 mi down
Hiking Time: 5–7 h up, 5–6 h down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel
After breakfast, we continue descending to Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. At lower elevations, trails can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are usually sufficient, but keep rain gear and warmer layers handy.
At the gate, a Monkey Adventures vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (approximately 60 minutes).
Elevation: 3,090 m / 10,150 ft → 1,680 m / 5,500 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 h
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
Cost includes
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
All meals while on the Mountain
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Clean, purified drinking water
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Sleeping Mattress
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
- Hotel before and after the hike
Cost excludes
Tanzania Visa
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
International and domestic flights
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Travel insurance
Government imposed increase of Taxes and or Park Fees.
Tips and gratuities
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
