The Machame route, also known as the Whiskey route, is a popular choice for many climbers due to its impressive views and diverse habitats. Approximately 50% of all climbers, including seasoned climbers, opt for the Machame route for their Kilimanjaro expedition.
One of the reasons for its popularity is the stunning scenery that the route offers. As climbers ascend, they are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. The variety of habitats encountered along the way adds to the allure of the Machame route.
The reputation of the Machame route as a challenging climb is another factor that draws climbers to choose it. Its steep trails and longer distances make it a more demanding route compared to the easier Marangu route, also known as the Coca Cola route. Climbers on the Machame route hike through rugged terrain and sleep in tents, adding to the sense of adventure and accomplishment.
Why this Machame Route?
Its scenic beauty, the Machame route is often chosen for its affordability. The route is relatively cheaper compared to others due to its easy access and shorter itinerary. This makes it an attractive option for climbers looking for a cost-effective Kilimanjaro experience.
Highlights of the Machame Route?
The Machame Route is a seven-day journey that begins in the southwest of the mountain, near the village of Machame. This trail is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, including the famous Barranco Wall, a steep and exhilarating climb that tests the endurance of even the most seasoned hikers.
How Long is the Machame Route?
- Duration: 7 days
- Distance: Approximately 62 km (38.5 miles)
- Scenery: Diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts
- Acclimatization: Excellent acclimatization profile
The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro using the Machame Route can vary depending on several factors, including the tour operator, the services included, the group size, and the time of year. However, as a general estimate, the cost for a 7-day Machame Route climb can range from $2,500 to $5,000 per person.
Machame Route Itinerary
You will be greeted on arrival by our friendly JAMBO MAASAI TOURS team who will transfer you to your hotel in either Moshi or Arusha. After meals or refreshments, mountain climbing briefing and climbing equipment inspection. Overnight at your Hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
After breakfast, drive from Moshi or Arusha drive to the Machame route, From the Machame Park gate is a gentle climb up through the original montane forest, carpeted with unique busy lizzie flowers, begonias and ferns. First camp amongst the giant heather at 3,000m. Ascent of 1,200m and 5 -6 hours walking. Dinner and overnight at Machame Camp.
After breakfast emerge from the giant heather zone and hike through fine open moorland to camp by the Shira Cave at 3,840m. Fascinating geological features in the old volcanic caldera which can be viewed during a half-hour optional walk in the afternoon. Ascent 840m and 4 – 5 hours walking. Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
After breakfast, start climbing from Shira Cave Camp towards the main peak Kibo, with the western glaciers clearly visible across the rugged high-altitude desert of volcanic rocks and boulders. Skirting around its base and under the imposing western Breach, descend into the sheltered Karanga Valley for mid-way camp at 3,950m. 6 – 7 hours walking and only 110m total ascent. But having climbed much higher and dropped back down assists acclimatization. Dinner and overnight at Karanga Valley.
After breakfast start your climb up the steep Barranco wall with some sections of very easy scrambling and drop down. The reason behind why Barranco Wall is nick named breakfast is that, just after taking your breakfast right away you start with a steep climb. You walk for 4 – 5 Hrs up Karanga Camp for hot lunch and some acclimatization, dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.
After breakfast, you start your climb towards Barafu Campsite 4 – 5 Hrs. We recommend our Clients to do a seven days climb because of having enough time to enable your body to relax and more acclimatization. On your relaxation, you will be having a fantastic view of Mawenzi peak from the camp. Barafu Camp is set on a small, exposed flat area on a ridge, acting as a base camp from which you will make your summit attempt at midnight. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position. Early dinner and early sleep ready for the summit.
Just after midnight, we start of a challenging trek (12-15 hours of trekking). At the early hours of the fifth day, you will start for the summit. You will climb for the peak through Builder- strewn ridge and a gap between the Rebman and Ratzel glaciers to arrive rim at Stella point about midway between Gilman’s point and Uhuru Peak. You will proceed to Uhuru peak, the highest point of Kilimanjaro where you will be given enough time at the top of Africa taking some photographs and admiring the beautiful views, and not forgetting signing a special book kept at the top of the mountain for visitors. The temperature range from just below freezing at midnight at the summit. As dawn nears, we will summit at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,340 feet. After breathtaking you will start to descend straight to Barafu for breakfast, then proceed down to Mweka Camp for dinner and where you will spend a night resting and memorizing.
From Mweka campsite it is a 4 – 5 hours descent through the forest to Mweka gate (depending on individual fitness) to collect certificates and meet the vehicle. Return to Moshi for night at the Hotel in Moshi for a day at leisure and evening transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport. OR Overnight.
