Description
Embark on a challenging and rewarding ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route.” This 6 to 7-day journey is favored by many climbers due to its scenic variety and its higher success rate for reaching the summit, thanks to better acclimatization schedules. The Machame Route allows you to experience a diverse array of environments, from lush rainforests to stark alpine deserts and icy arctic summits. This route is more strenuous but incredibly rewarding, with spectacular views and a gradual acclimatization process. It involves camping each night, offering a more rugged and adventurous climb compared to the Marangu Route’s hut accommodations.
Day by Day Itineray
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Begin at Machame Gate (1,640 meters), where you’ll register with the park authorities. The first day involves a hike through dense rainforest to Machame Camp (2,835 meters). This trek takes about 5-7 hours, offering chances to see wildlife and get acclimatized to increasing altitude. Spend your first night camping in the forest, which provides natural cover and scenic beauty.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Trek from Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,850 meters), which typically takes about 4-6 hours. As you ascend, notice the change in vegetation as the dense forest transitions to moorland. Shira Plateau offers stunning views of the mountain and provides a flatter landscape for a more relaxed hike compared to the first day. Overnight at Shira Camp, with its dramatic views under a starlit sky.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
From Shira Camp, hike to Lava Tower (4,630 meters) for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp (3,960 meters). This day is crucial for acclimatization and includes about 6-7 hours of hiking. The climb to Lava Tower helps adjust to high altitude, while the descent to Barranco Camp aids in the “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization principle. Barranco Camp is situated in a valley below the Breach and Great Barranco Wall, which provides spectacular sunset views.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Start the day with a climb up the challenging Barranco Wall, then traverse through alpine desert landscapes to Karanga Camp (3,995 meters). This day involves about 4-5 hours of hiking, which includes a steep climb over the Barranco Wall. This section is physically challenging but provides a rewarding trekking experience. Karanga Camp is used for additional acclimatization, with some afternoon walks to further aid adaptation to altitude.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Hike from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673 meters). The trek is relatively short, about 3-4 hours, but it’s steep, taking you through barren landscapes with expansive views. Barafu Camp is the staging area for the summit push, so you’ll spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the night ascent.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Depart just after midnight for the summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). This is the most challenging portion of the trek, involving 6-8 hours of hiking to reach the summit by sunrise. After reaching the summit and enjoying the accomplishment, descend to Mweka Camp (3,068 meters), which usually takes about 5-6 hours. This long day requires stamina and determination but offers immense satisfaction and unforgettable views.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Departure
The final descent takes you from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, which requires about 3-4 hours of trekking through the forest. At the gate, receive your summit certificates, celebrating your achievement before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.