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Machame Route – Kilimanjaro’s Iconic “Whiskey” 7 Day Trek
Machame Route – Kilimanjaro’s Iconic “Whiskey” Trek
Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” for its bold and adventurous spirit, the Machame Route is the most popular trail up Mount Kilimanjaro—and for good reason. With stunning scenery, a dynamic trail, and solid acclimatization opportunities, it strikes the perfect balance between challenge and reward.
Used by Over 1 in 3 Climbers
According to Kilimanjaro National Park, about 35% of all trekkers choose Machame, making it the most-traveled (and time-tested!) route to the Roof of Africa.
What Makes It Special?
- More Scenic, More Rewarding
The Machame trail winds through lush rainforest, crosses the otherworldly Shira Plateau, passes by the dramatic Lava Tower, and cuts under the towering Southern Ice Field. You’ll get jaw-dropping views at every turn and experience Kilimanjaro’s wildly diverse ecosystems from jungle to alpine desert.
- Sleep Under the Stars
Unlike the Marangu “Coca-Cola Route,” which uses mountain huts, Machame is a full-on camping adventure. You’ll fall asleep in tents surrounded by silence and starlight—true wilderness immersion.
- Choose 6 or 7 Days
Most trekkers opt for 7 days to allow better acclimatization. That extra time can dramatically increase your chances of reaching the summit.
Highlights Along the Way
- Barranco Wall – The trail’s most talked-about section! This cliffside scramble looks intimidating, but with a little focus and fun hands-on climbing, it’s over in about an hour. Your reward? Some of the best panoramic views on the entire route.
- Barafu Camp – This high camp is your final base before the big push to the summit. From here, you’ll make your way toward Uhuru Peak, aiming to reach the top at sunrise for a moment you’ll never forget.
Who Should Choose Machame?
If you’re reasonably fit, want a scenic, varied, and adventurous route, and you’re excited about a true camping experience, Machame is the one. It’s tougher than Marangu, yes—but it’s also more rewarding.
Ready to earn your summit sunrise the Whiskey Route way?
What About the Crowds?
The only real downside to the Machame Route? It can get a little busy, especially during the high season (June–October & January–March). Thanks to its jaw-dropping views and great acclimatization profile, it’s a favorite among trekkers from around the world—so expect some company on the trail and at camp.
That said, many travelers love the social atmosphere. You’ll meet fellow adventurers from every corner of the globe, share stories around camp, and celebrate your summit success together.
6-Day or 7-Day Trek?
At Climbing Kilimanjaro, we offer both:
- 7-Day Itinerary – Recommended for the best summit success rate and a more relaxed pace. Includes an overnight at Karanga Camp, which helps with acclimatization.
- 6-Day Itinerary – A bit more demanding. This version skips Karanga Camp, combining Days 4 and 5 into a longer trek from Barranco Camp straight to Barafu Camp.
Our Tip: If your schedule allows, go for the 7-day option. That extra day can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying the climb—and making the summit.
Machame isn’t just a trek—it’s the classic Kilimanjaro adventure. From rainforest to alpine desert, cliffs to glaciers, it’s the route that checks all the boxes.
Machame Route – 7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb
“The Classic Kilimanjaro Adventure” 6 Nights / 7 Days on the Mountain
Want a faster trek? You can opt for the 6-day version by skipping Karanga Camp and heading straight from Barranco to Barafu on Day 4.
Day 1 – Into the Rainforest
Machame Gate (5,380') → Machame Camp (~9,350')
Kick off your adventure with a scenic drive to Machame Gate. After checking in, you'll trek through lush, moss-draped rainforest—keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and tropical birds!
Hiking: 5–7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~9,350’
Day 2 – Rise to the Shira Plateau
Machame Camp → Shira Camp (~12,500')
Leave the forest behind as you enter Kilimanjaro’s moorland. The trail opens up to sweeping views of Kibo Peak and volcanic landscapes.
Hiking: 4–6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~12,500’
Day 3 – Lava Tower & Barranco Camp (Acclimatize!)
Shira Camp → Lava Tower (~15,190') → Barranco Camp (~13,044')
This is your climb high, sleep low day for optimal acclimatization. Lunch near Lava Tower, then descend into the stunning Barranco Valley. Adventurous trekkers can even scramble up the Lava Tower itself!
Hiking: 6–8 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,044’
Day 4 – The Epic Barranco Wall
Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp (~13,106')
Tackle the iconic Barranco Wall, a thrilling but manageable climb with jaw-dropping views. After that, it’s a rollercoaster of ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, where you’ll continue acclimatizing.
Hiking: 4–5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,106’
Day 5 – Base Camp Prep
Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp (~15,331')
Today you push to Barafu Camp, your final base before the summit. After an early dinner, you’ll rest up for the midnight summit push.
Hiking: 3–4 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~15,331’
Day 6 – Summit Day!
Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak (19,341') → Mweka Camp (~10,500')
Begin your ascent at midnight, climbing by headlamp to Stella Point and then the roof of Africa – Uhuru Peak. After sunrise photos and victory cheers, descend back to Barafu for a break, then down to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Hiking: 12–16 hours (total up & down)
Summit: 19,341’
Overnight Altitude: ~10,500’
Day 7 – Final Descent
Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate (~5,000') → Arusha
Your final trek takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. After lunch and goodbyes with your incredible mountain crew, drive back to Arusha for a hot shower and celebratory dinner!
Hiking: 3–5 hours
Frequently Asked Questions: Machame Route (Kilimanjaro)
How tough is the Machame Route?
The Machame Route is a thrilling adventure for those who crave a bit of a challenge. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” this trek takes you through steep, rocky paths and the iconic Barranco Wall—a fun, scrambling climb that adds an element of excitement!
While it’s considered moderately difficult, fitness and determination are key, and with a solid prep routine and expert guides by your side, you’ll be ready to conquer it. The altitude is no joke, though, so proper acclimatization is a must to avoid altitude sickness.
The route is challenging, but also incredibly rewarding—just think about those epic views and that summit moment. Don’t worry about your gear, either; your porters will carry the heavy stuff for you!
How far is the Machame Route and how long will it take?
The Machame Route covers about 62 kilometers (37 miles) from start to summit and all the way back down. The shortest trek duration is 6 days, but we recommend going for the 7 or 8-day option to maximize your success and enjoy the journey. Extra time helps your body acclimate better, which means a better shot at making it to the top!
What’s the summit success rate for Machame?
The Machame Route is known for its high summit success rates, especially with its “climb high, sleep low” method, which helps your body adjust to the altitude. On average, trekkers on the 7-day trek have an 85% chance of summiting, and the 6-day trek sees a 73% success rate.
But here’s the exciting part: our success rate is over 95% for the 7-day trek! The more time you spend acclimatizing, the higher your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa!
What will the scenery be like?
Prepare for jaw-dropping views as the Machame route takes you through 5 distinct climates on your way to the top. Start in the rainforest with its lush, green paths, then journey up through wild grasslands and moorlands. Next, you’ll trek into the high alpine zone before finally reaching the glacial zone.
Along the way, you’ll pass iconic landmarks like Shira Plateau, the dramatic Barranco Wall, and the towering Lava Tower—each offering a new perspective of the mountain’s beauty. It’s an ever-changing landscape, and every step brings a new adventure!
When’s the best time to trek the Machame Route?
The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is between July and September, when the weather is most stable and the chance of rain is low. This is the peak season for climbers, so you’ll get ideal conditions for your summit bid.
Although Kilimanjaro is close to the equator, it’s an all-year-round destination, so you can technically trek at any time. However, April and May bring the rainy season, which is best avoided.
Ready to take on Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route?
Get prepared for the adventure of a lifetime, with unforgettable views, challenges, and a sense of accomplishment that will stay with you forever!