Summary
Informally referred to as the “whiskey route” after the hard liqour, the Machame Route is a popular way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, taking hikers through rainforests, open moorlands, rocky paths, and snowy glaciers. The route takes 6 to 7 days, with time to adjust to the altitude by climbing higher during the day and sleeping lower at night. Starting at Machame Gate, it passes through Shira Plateau, Barranco Valley, and Barafu Camp before reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak. It’s challenging but offers great views and a good chance of reaching the top. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging endeavor and proper acclimatization is crucial for safety and success.
In detail:
Day 1: Arrival and Trek to Machame Camp
Transfer: From Moshi/Arusha to Machame Gate
Hiking Duration: 5-7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~9,350 ft
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Hiking Duration: 4-6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~12,500 ft
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Hiking Duration: 6-8 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,044 ft
Day 4: Ascend Barranco Wall and Trek to Karanga Camp
Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,106 ft
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Hiking Duration: 3-4 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~15,331 ft
Day 6: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp
Hiking Duration: 6-7 hours to summit, 6-9 hours down
Overnight Altitude: ~10,500 ft
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Hiking Duration: 3-5 hours
Transfer: Back to Moshi or Arusha
