Alkebulan Travels

TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERT
+255 676 464 864

  • TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERT

    +255 676 464 864

Machame Route
Kilimanjaro Climbing

The Machame route, famously known as the “Whiskey” route, is a popular and breathtakingly scenic option for climbers aiming to conquer Kilimanjaro. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, this route provides an exhilarating challenge and a lifetime of memories.

Experience Price

From $2,150 per person

Book this climb

Experience Price

From $2,150 per person

Book this climb
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Expert

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ABOUT MACHAME ROUTE

The Machame Route, known as the “Whiskey Route,” offers a 6 or 7-day camping adventure on Kilimanjaro, combining breathtaking vistas with a moderate challenge. With around 35% of climbers choosing this route, it’s a popular option that strikes a balance between difficulty and enjoyment. Unlike the more straightforward Marangu Route, where trekkers sleep in huts, Machame offers a true wilderness experience with camping in tents all the way to the summit.

Trekkers on this route will encounter some of Kilimanjaro’s most famous landmarks, such as the Lava Tower and the expansive Shira Plateau, as the trail winds through valleys and ridges, showcasing the mountain’s diverse landscapes. Known for its stunning views, the Machame Route starts on the southern side of the mountain and approaches the summit via the Barafu Camp.

While the route presents challenges like the Barranco Wall—a steep cliff that appears daunting at first—the climb is manageable, often taking about an hour to complete. The effort is rewarded with spectacular views from the top. Additionally, for those with a flexible schedule, adding extra days for acclimatization significantly increases the chances of reaching the summit, making the Machame Route both a visually and strategically smart choice for climbers.

Machame route overview

The Machame Route is renowned for its beauty and gradual altitude gain, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes while increasing their chances of a successful summit. Available in 6-day, and 7-day, this route provides flexibility for both time-constrained adventurers and those seeking a more relaxed pace with better acclimatization.

  • 6 Days Trek

    A faster-paced adventure for seasoned trekkers, this option requires prior acclimatization and is recommended for experienced hikers.

  • 7 Days Trek

    The most popular choice, offering an excellent balance between time on the mountain and proper acclimatization, resulting in a higher summit success rate.

Experience Expectation

Embarking on Machame Route to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, climbers can anticipate a thrilling and awe-inspiring adventure amidst the grandeur of nature’s masterpiece. With each passing day, the ascent unveils a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to moorlands adorned with vibrant flora. As climbers steadily gain altitude, they are immersed in the ethereal beauty of the Shira Plateau, where the vastness of the sky merges with the sprawling plains below.

This journey challenges both physical and mental stamina, rewarding climbers with unforgettable panoramas, including the imposing Barranco Wall and the lunar-like terrain of the Karanga Valley. The summit day, steeped in anticipation and excitement, culminates with a victorious arrival at Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Africa. Throughout this exhilarating experience, climbers forge bonds with their fellow adventurers and witness the indomitable spirit of the human will.

SAFARI FEATURES

  • Beautiful scenery: Stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.
  • Varied terrain: Encounter rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts.
  • Gradual ascent: Allows for better acclimatization and reduces altitude sickness risk.
  • High success rate: One of the most popular and successful routes to the summit.
  • Challenging but rewarding: Requires physical and mental strength.
  • Experienced guides and porters: Knowledgeable and supportive team.
  • Camping experience: Overnight stays in tents along the route.
  • Barranco Wall: Exciting and memorable climbing section.
  • Uhuru Peak: Reach the highest point in Africa.
  • Personal achievement: Conquer the challenge and celebrate your accomplishment.

Experience Suitability

  • Experienced hikers looking for a challenging adventure.
  • Individuals with good physical fitness and endurance.
  • Those who enjoy high-altitude trekking.
  • Adventurers seeking breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.
  • People with prior experience in multi-day hikes.
  • Hikers looking for a popular and well-established route.
  • Individuals who can acclimatize well to high altitudes.
  • Those who prefer a moderate-paced climb.
  • Nature enthusiasts wanting to explore the Kilimanjaro ecosystem.
  • Hikers with a desire to reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak.

Day to Day Experience

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Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. You can take this day to rest and prepare for the exciting adventure that lies ahead.

  • From: Londorossi Gate (7,742 ft)

    • To: Shira 2 Camp (12,598 ft)
    • Distance: 7 km
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
    • Habitat: Montane Forest

    After breakfast, we will drive to the Lemosho Gate located at the western base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Once we complete the necessary registration formalities, we begin our ascent through the lush rainforest. The trail is alive with various species of flora and fauna, making it a delightful start to our trek. We continue hiking for several hours until we reach the Shira 2 Camp, where we will spend the night. As we gain altitude, the vegetation transitions into heathland, providing beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

    • From: Shira 2 Camp (12,598 ft)
      • To: Barranco Camp (12,956 ft)
      • Distance: 10 km
      • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert
      • From: Barranco Camp (12,956 ft)
      • To: Karanga Camp (13,106 ft)
      • Distance: 5 km
      • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert

      After breakfast, we face the famous Barranco Wall, a challenging rock scramble that requires careful navigation. As we conquer this obstacle, we are rewarded with stunning vistas of glaciers and the surrounding valleys. We then traverse the southern slopes of Kibo, the highest of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones, until we reach the Karanga Camp. Here, we enjoy a well-deserved rest and prepare for the next day’s ascent.

      • From: Karanga Camp (13,106 ft)
      • To: Barafu Camp (15,331 ft)
      • Distance: 4 km
      • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert

      The path from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp gradually ascends, taking us closer to our ultimate goal. As we hike, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and lunar-like, providing a surreal atmosphere. We arrive at Barafu Camp, situated on a rocky ridge, in the afternoon. This is the last camp before the summit attempt, and we take the rest of the day to rest and mentally prepare for the challenging climb ahead.

    • From: Barafu Camp (15,331 ft) to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft) and Millennium Camp (12,467 ft)
    • Distance: 4 km ascent, 12 km descent
    • Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to reach the summit, 5-6 hours to descend to Millennium Camp
    • Habitat: Arctic

    We start our ascent in the middle of the night, armed with headlamps and layers of warm clothing. The trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro, is physically and mentally demanding but incredibly rewarding. We make our way up the steep slopes, navigating through scree and icy patches, until we reach the summit just before dawn. Standing on Uhuru Peak, we celebrate our achievement and soak in the awe-inspiring sunrise. After capturing memories and taking in the breathtaking views, we descend to the Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.

      • From: Millennium Camp (12,467 ft)
      • To: Mweka Gate (5,400 ft)
      • Distance: 10 km
      • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
      • Habitat: Rainforest

      Our final descent takes us through the lush rainforest, a refreshing change from the barren landscapes of the higher altitudes. As we make our way down, we can reflect on our incredible journey and savour the sights and sounds of the vibrant flora and fauna. Upon reaching the Mweka Gate, we receive our summit certificates and bid farewell to our mountain crew. A vehicle will be waiting to transport us to Mweka Village, where we continue the journey back to our hotel in Moshi.

    • Today marks the end of our memorable adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro. After breakfast, we say our goodbyes and our team will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. You can depart with a sense of accomplishment and countless memories that will last a lifetime.

      Please note that the itineraries are subject to change based on weather conditions, group pace, and the overall well-being of the trekkers. Our experienced guides will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your safety and enhance your trekking experience.

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Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Take this day to relax and prepare for your upcoming trek. You can explore the vibrant city of Arusha or simply rest and rejuvenate in anticipation of the adventure ahead.

  • From Machame Gate to Machame Camp
    • Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
    • Distance: 11 km
    • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
    • Habitat: Rain Forest
    • From Machame Camp to Shira Camp
    • Elevation (ft): 9,400ft to 12,600ft
    • Distance: 5 km
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
    • Habitat: Moorland
    • From Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
    • Elevation (ft): 12,600ft to 13,000ft (Lava Tower – 15,190ft, acclimatization point)
    • Distance: 10 km
    • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
    • Habitat: Semi-Desert
      • From Barranco Camp (13,000ft) to Karanga Camp (13,100ft)
      • Elevation (ft): +100ft
      • Distance: 5km
      • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert
    • From Karanga Camp (13,100ft) to Barafu Camp (15,300ft)
    • Elevation (ft): +2,200ft
    • Distance: 4km
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
    • Habitat: Alpine Desert
      • From Barafu Camp (15,300ft) to Uhuru Peak (19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (10,000ft)
      • Elevation (ft): +4,041ft, -9,341ft
      • Distance: 18km
      • Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
      • Habitat: Arctic Zone, Alpine Desert, Rainforest
      • From Mweka Camp (10,000ft) to Mweka Gate (5,400ft) to Arusha
      • Elevation (ft): -4,600ft
      • Distance: 10km
      • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
      • Habitat: Rainforest

    • From Hotel in Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport

      After a restful night in Arusha, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. Bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes and warm hospitality of Tanzania, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.

       

      Note: This itinerary is a general guideline and may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, group pace, and the overall fitness of the participants. Your experienced guide will ensure the best possible experience while prioritizing your safety at all times.

Experience Accommodation

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Arrival

Upon your arrival in Arusha, you will be accommodated at either the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha, Arusha Serena Hotel or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha. Both hotels offer comfortable and convenient lodging options, providing you with a relaxing environment to rest and prepare for your Kilimanjaro trek.

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During the Hike

During the trek on the Machame Route, you will be provided with high-quality camping equipment, including spacious tents, sleeping mats, and dining facilities. Each night, our experienced team will set up the camp at designated campsites along the route. The campsites are carefully selected to offer scenic views and a comfortable setting for a good night’s rest. You will be provided with comfortable sleeping arrangements to ensure you are well-rested for each day’s trekking.

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After the Hike

Upon completing your Kilimanjaro trek, you will be transferred back to either the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha, Arusha Serena Hotel or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha, where you can unwind, relax, and celebrate your accomplishment. Both hotels offer modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and excellent services to ensure you have a pleasant post-trek experience. You can enjoy a hot shower, indulge in delicious meals, and take some time to rejuvenate before continuing your onward journey or departing for your home country.

Please note that the specific accommodation arrangements may vary depending on availability and other factors. Our team will make every effort to ensure your comfort and provide suitable accommodation options throughout your Kilimanjaro climbing tour

Rates per Person

  • Route
    1 Pax
    2 Pax
    3 Pax
    4 Pax
    5 Pax
    6 pax
    7 pax
    8+ pax
  • 6 Days
    $3,404
    $2,634
    $2,480
    $2,400
    $2,376
    $2,290
    $2,215
    $2,150
  • 7 Days
    $3,825
    $3,050
    $2,756
    $2,700
    $2,654
    $2,543
    $2,425
    $2,377

For luxury Kilimanjaro Climb

The client will have to add $1500 extra and will stay at either of the following hotels:

  • Mount Meru Hotel
  • Gran Melia Hotel
  • Kibo Palace Hotel

Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb will include the following

  • Special Kilimanjaro guide
  • Personal porter for carrying day pack
  • 2 sets of Oxygen
  • Portable private toilet and Camp shower for groups of 4 or more
  • Large comfortable dining tent with Dining chairs with backs
  • Hot lunches on the mountain
  • Solar lighting in dining tent and personal tent
  • Camp pillow, Extra sleeping pad
  • Hot water bottle for sleeping bag at night
  • Solar panel for charging batteries and Kilimanjaro map for each in the group

Experience Inclusion & Exclusion

  • All camping and hut fees
  • All Entry fees.
  • All camping gears.
  • High-Quality 4-inch Sleeping Mattress & Pillow
  • Duffle Bags or Sleeping Bags (- 10°C)
  • Oxygen cylinder
  • Oximeter machine
  • Mobile Communications (for emergency only)
  • Transport to/from the mountain gates
  • Experienced and friendly trek staff (cooks and porters) and their salaries.
  • Meals (3 times per day)
  • Boiled/Purified drinking water.
  • Cook and kitchen utensils.
  • 18% VAT
  • English-speaking guide (certified as a Wilderness First Responder & Emergency Medicine Adult and Child CPR)
  • Special Language Guide (for $20 per guide, per day)
  • First Aid & Injury prevention kits
  • Daily briefing
  • 25% discount on gear rental (the discount applies for online shopping only)
  • Personal Summit Certificate stamped and signed by the National Park and your Guide.
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  • International and local flights from back home
  • Tips (Gratuity) to guide and porters.
  • Tanzania Visa
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses (e.g., laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
  • RT PCR Test (can be arranged)
  • Hotels for before and after trek night (available as an add-on)
  • Airport Transfer (50$ one way per car)
  • Personal mountain gear (We offer high-quality Gear Rental, see below for more info)

Maps

Safari Transportation

We understand the importance of comfortable and reliable transportation during your Kilimanjaro climbing tour. To ensure a seamless experience, we provide transportation services for various stages of your journey.

Airport Pickup:

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our professional driver will be waiting to greet you. We offer transportation options depending on the size of your group. For smaller groups or individual travellers, we provide a Toyota Alphard, a spacious and comfortable vehicle ideal for airport transfers. For larger groups, we have a Safari Land Cruiser, which offers ample space for both passengers and luggage. Our experienced driver will safely transport you from the airport to your hotel in Arusha, whether it’s the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha.

Trek Day:

On the day of your trek, we will arrange transportation from your hotel in Arusha to the starting point of your chosen route. We utilize a private Coaster shuttle bus, which provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transport. The shuttle bus is spacious, allowing you to relax and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead. Our experienced driver will ensure a smooth journey as you head towards the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, ready to embark on your trekking expedition.

After Trek:

Upon completing your Kilimanjaro trek, we will arrange transportation from the mountain back to your hotel in Arusha. Our private Coaster shuttle bus will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you safely and comfortably. You can relax and reflect on your incredible achievement as our driver navigates the scenic routes back to your accommodation at either the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha.

Airport Dropoff:

When it’s time to bid farewell to Tanzania, we will arrange transportation from your hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. For airport drop-off, we offer both the Toyota Alphard and Safari Land Cruiser, depending on the number of clients and their respective transportation needs. Our reliable driver will ensure that you reach the airport in a timely manner, allowing you to catch your flight with ease.

At Alkebulan Travels, we prioritize your comfort and safety throughout your Kilimanjaro climbing tour. Our well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers will provide a smooth and enjoyable transportation experience, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in the beauty of Tanzania’s landscapes and the thrill of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro.

Important to Know

The Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Here are some important things to know about the Machame Route:

    1. Difficulty: The Machame Route is considered to be a moderately difficult route. It involves steep sections and varied terrain, including rocky paths and some scrambling. Proper physical fitness and mental preparation are essential for a successful climb.
    2. Scenery: The Machame Route offers stunning scenery throughout the trek. You will pass through different ecological zones, including lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. The diverse landscapes and breathtaking views make the climb a memorable experience.
    3. Camping: The Machame Route is a camping route, which means you will spend your nights in tents at designated campsites along the trail. The campsites are well-equipped with facilities such as toilets and dining areas, providing a comfortable camping experience.
    4. Acclimatization: The Machame Route has good acclimatization opportunities, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude gradually. The route includes longer hiking days and multiple camps at different elevations, maximizing your chances of successfully acclimatizing to the high altitude.
    5. Summit Day: The summit attempt on the Machame Route usually starts in the early hours of the morning. It involves a challenging and steep ascent to the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb is physically demanding and requires mental resilience, but the rewarding views from the summit make it all worthwhile.
    6. Guide and Support Team: Climbing the Machame Route requires the assistance of experienced guides and a support team. These professionals will provide guidance, and support, and ensure your safety throughout the trek. It is important to choose a reputable tour operator who provides trained and knowledgeable staff.
    7. Packing and Gear: Proper gear and equipment are essential for a successful climb. You will need to pack warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and other essentials. It is recommended to consult with your tour operator for a detailed packing list and to ensure you have the necessary gear.
    8. Training and Preparation: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a physically demanding endeavour. It is crucial to engage in pre-trek training and prepare your body for the challenges ahead. Regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking at high altitudes can help improve your fitness level and increase your chances of summiting.

Travel Insurance

All our Tours are covered by AMREF Flying Doctors Travel insurance

At Alkebulan Travels, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients during their Tanzania safari and Kilimanjaro climb tours. That’s why we have partnered with AMREF Flying Doctors to provide comprehensive tourist insurance coverage for all our trips within Tanzania.

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HN5, Private Road,
Old Moshi Road
Moshono Kati
P.O. Box 254 Arusha Tanzania

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