THE MAJESTY OF KILIMANJARO
Mount Kilimanjaro rises to 5,895 meters, making it Africa's tallest peak and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Its snow-capped summit, unique ecosystems, and panoramic views create an unforgettable trekking adventure. With Kai Tours and Safaris, climbers benefit from expert guidance, professional support, and fully organized Kilimanjaro climbs offered by a trusted Tanzania-only tour company, renowned for safety, local knowledge, and exceptional trekking experiences.
MACHAME ROUTE
The Machame Route, also called the "Whiskey Route," is known as one of the most beautiful and adventurous ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This famous Kilimanjaro trekking route offers amazing scenery, changing landscapes, and a more exciting challenge for climbers. Most Machame climbers take 6 days, which helps with acclimatization and increases the chance of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Your trek begins at Machame Gate and moves through green rainforest filled with wildlife and tropical plants. As the climb continues, the environment changes into open moorland, then into high alpine desert with impressive views of Mawenzi and Kibo. Important highlights along the Machame trail include Shira Plateau, the famous Barranco Wall, and the Lava Tower.
This Kilimanjaro climbing route is more demanding than easier paths, so trekkers should be prepared for steep sections and rocky climbs, especially near Barafu Camp. The final summit night begins around midnight, leading to a magical sunrise view above the roof of Africa.
If you want a beautiful, adventurous, and challenging Kilimanjaro experience, the Machame Route is one of the best choices for climbers searching for an unforgettable Tanzania mountain adventure.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Drive from Moshi after breakfast to Machame gate (1800m) and start trekking to Machame camp (3000m).
Takes 5-6hrs. Distance 10.75km gaining 1200m.
- Accommodation: Budget Camping
- Meals: All meals included
Continue hiking to Shira 2 camp (3850m) 4-5hrs. Distance 5.3km gaining 850m.
- Accommodation: Budget Camping
- Meals: All meals included
Trek through Lava Tower (4600m) then descend to Barranco (3940m). 6-7hrs. 10.75km.
- Accommodation: Budget Camping
- Meals: All meals included
Climb Barranco Wall to Barafu then start midnight summit trek to Uhuru Peak (5895m).
- Accommodation: Budget Camping
- Meals: All meals included
Descend from summit via Barafu down to Mweka camp (3100m). 11.5km descent.
- Accommodation: Budget Camping
- Meals: All meals included
Walk down rainforest 3-4hrs to Mweka Gate then drive to Moshi.
- Accommodation: End of Tour
- Meals: All meals included
This Machame climb is very affordable
- Group climb: $1800 per person
- Private trek: $2000 per person
TREKKING GALERY
Inclusions
Porterage
Rescue fee
Park fees
All activities
All accommodation
A professional driver / guide
All transportation
All Taxes / VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals
Drinking water
EXCLUSIONS
Climbing gear
International flights
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Personal items
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Highlights
Scenic and Diverse Landscapes
The Machame Route is known for its stunning and varied landscapes, starting with lush rainforests, transitioning through moorlands and alpine deserts, and finishing on the glacier-topped summit of Uhuru Peak.
Shira Plateau
A vast, flat expanse offering panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak, the Shira Plateau is one of the most scenic sections of the climb, with breathtaking sunsets.
Mawenzi and Kibo Views
Trekking past Horombo Hut, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's twin peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo, with rugged and scenic landscapes stretching out before you.
Barranco Wall
A challenging yet exhilarating ascent, the Barranco Wall offers both excitement and spectacular views. Although steep, it is not technical, and the reward is the panoramic vistas at the top.
Lava Tower
This 4,600-meter volcanic tower offers trekkers a great acclimatization opportunity. Standing beneath the Lava Tower is a surreal experience amidst the alpine desert landscape.
Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets
The climb offers some of the most memorable sunrises and sunsets, especially from camps like Barafu and Shira, with views over the clouds and surrounding peaks.
Summiting Uhuru Peak
The ultimate highlight is reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The final push begins before dawn, allowing climbers to witness the sunrise from the roof of Africa, creating an unforgettable moment.
