Machame Route Overview:
The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular and scenic paths for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. It is favored for its beautiful landscapes and effective acclimatization profile. Here is detailed information about the 9-day hike to Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route.
From $2,200.00
"Kilidove" means the spirit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Growing up on its foothills and exploring its routes inspired me to share this adventure with the world.
Join me in conquering one of the highest peaks.
George Joseph
Founder
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Basic Accommodation
- Tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty.
- Experience simplicity and comfort with the nature.
- Perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Medium Accommodation
- Modern amenities with a relaxed ambiance.
- Discover a perfect blend of luxury and affordability.
- Designed to cater to the needs of every guest.
Luxury Accommodation
- The Luxury Accommodation sets the standard for luxury and sophistication, offering unparalleled service.
- World-class dining, and unmatched amenities await.
- Perfect for those who want the best, down to the last detail.
The Machame route on Kilimanjaro is a seven day camping route which allows for excellent acclimatisation and particularly diverse scenery. It has been called the Whiskey route in the past and nowadays about 35% of all climbers on the mountain use it.
In a matter of days you will climb Kilimanjaro from the equator up to an Arctic zone, moving through grasslands, tropical rainforest, alpine meadows, moorlands and high desert to snow and ice. Each day on this route presents quite a distinct ecosystem to experience, which is one reason it is so popular.
The other reason is that the seven day programme begins on the south west side of the mountain and traverses around to the south east side, enabling you to sleep at the same altitude for three consecutive nights which significantly aids altitude acclimatisation. This means that our summit success rate on this route is quite high at around 85%.
– Starting Point: The journey begins at the Machame Gate, located at the southern base of the mountain.
– Duration: Typically a 6 to 7-day trek, with the 7-day option providing better acclimatization and a higher success rate.
– Challenging Terrain: Considered a moderately difficult route, it is more challenging than the Marangu or Rongai routes.
– Physical Demand: Requires good physical fitness, which involves longer trekking days, especially during the ascent and descent.
– Diverse Landscapes: Trekkers experience a dramatic change in vegetation and landscapes – from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glacial zones.
– Stunning Vistas: Offers some of the best views of the mountain, including the Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and Kibo.
– Camping Experience: Unlike the Marangu Route’s hut accommodations, the Machame Route offers tented camping, enhancing the adventure and wilderness experience.
Effective Strategy: The route adheres to the ‘climb high, sleep low’ principle, especially when taking the 7-day option, which is beneficial for acclimatization.
Final Ascent: Climbers make their final ascent to the summit via Stella Point, encountering steep trails and loose gravel leading to Uhuru Peak.
– High Traffic: One of the most popular routes, which can get crowded during peak seasons.
– Comparatively High: The success rate for reaching the summit is generally high, attributed to the longer itinerary allowing better acclimatization.
– Conservation Efforts: Due to its popularity, concerted efforts are to maintain the trail and manage environmental impact.
The Machame Route is an excellent choice for physically fit people looking for a scenic and adventurous climb. The route’s varied terrain, beautiful landscapes, and compelling acclimatization profile make it one of the best ways to experience the majestic Kilimanjaro.
First Night in Tanzania
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport
– Arrival: Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
– Welcome: Meet our Kilidove Tours representative, who will greet you warmly.
– Transfer: Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Moshi.
– Evening: Briefing with your guide about the trek, followed by dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
First Day on the Mountain
Hotel to Machame Camp
– Morning: After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate for registration.
– Trek Start: Begin the ascent through lush rainforest to Machame Camp (3,010m).
– Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at Machame Camp.
Shira Plateau
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
– Morning: Early from Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,845m).
– Scenery: Traverse beautiful heathland and moorland zones.
– Evening: Arrive at Shira Camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Barranco Camp
Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
– Morning: Trek from Shira Camp to the Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization.
– Afternoon: Descend to Barranco Camp (3,976m) through the spectacular Senecio forest.
– Evening: Overnight stay at Barranco Camp.
Barranco Wall
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
– Challenge: Climb the famous Barranco Wall in the morning.
– Trek: Continue to Karanga Camp (3,995m).
– Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at Karanga Camp.
Barafu Camp
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
– Morning: Trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m).
– Preparation: Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
– Evening: Early dinner and sleep, gearing up for the midnight summit push.
Summit Day
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
– Midnight: Begin the summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
– Sunrise: Reach the summit at dawn and enjoy breathtaking views.
– Descent: Return to Barafu Camp, then descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m).
– Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at Mweka Camp.
Mweka Gate
Mweka Camp to Arusha/Moshi
– Morning: Descend to Mweka Gate to collect summit certificates.
– Afternoon: Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha.
– Evening: Celebration dinner and rest at the hotel.
Continue on Safari with Us
Departure
– Leisure: Spend the day relaxing or exploring Moshi/Arusha.
– Transfer: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight or continue on safari with us.
PRICE INCLUDES
- Park fees, hut fees & rescue fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- Professional mountain guides, cooks, support crew, and porters
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- Filtered water throughout the trek
- Pre Trek accommodation on Bed & Breakfast Basis
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Supplemental Oxygen & Pulse Oximeter
PRICE EXCLUDES
- Any personal items of nature, such as beverages, and personal toiletries.
- Any extra night added on the mountain
- Visas to Tanzania
- International flight to Tanzania