Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route

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Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route
Duration9 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryTanzania
Maximum Altitude5,895 m
StartsMoshi, Tanzania
EndsMoshi, Tanzania
Travel StyleHiking and Climbing
Best TimeCold/Winter and Monsoon to Peak Autumn Season

9 days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame route is a scenic and rewarding path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is often called the whiskey route by the climbers due to its challenging and rewarding nature.

Highlights of the Trip

  • Hiking through the distinct climate zones, starting in a lush rain forest filled with colobus monkeys and ending in the arctic summit. 
  • Experience the wide-open moorland in the Shira Plateau along with the panoramic views of the Shira Cathedral and the glaciated dome of Kibo. 
  • Hike to the massive volcano plug for lunch and acclimatization.
  • Capture photographs from the 900-foot cliff face of the barranco wall.
  • Enjoy the views of the Heim and Kersten glaciers while hiking towards the summit base camp.
  • Reach the roof of Africa at sunrise. 

Overview

Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route is the premier trekking itinerary on Mount Kilimanjaro that prioritizes safety and success through an extended acclimatization period. This route is designed in the best way and follows a "climb high, sleep low" strategy.

Although the Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame Route itinerary spans 9 days, the main trekking days are just 7 days. The two days are for the arrival and departure at a hotel in Moshi. 

The trip itinerary goes like your arrival in Tanzania and transfer to the hotel in Moshi. There, you will be briefed about the trip, and gear is checked. 

Then. We will drive you to the Machame Gate and trek to the Kilimanjaro peak, crossing several places like Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Lava Tower, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, and Barafu Camp.

The descending journey starts from the Kilimanjaro summit and descends to the Mweka Hut and Moshi. From there, we will drive to the airport and depart to your destination.

The trip offers the views of the Kibo, Western Breach glaciers, southern glaciers, Mawenzi peak, Shira, and so on. 

Why choose the Machame Route for climbing Kilimanjaro?

  • High success rate and acclimatization

The 9 days Kilimanjaro climb via Machame Route allows better acclimatization compared to the other routes and itinerary. These positive sides contribute to a higher likelihood of reaching the peak.

  • Stunning scenery and variety

The route offers a 360-degree view of the peaks like Kibo, Mawenzi, Shira, Mount Meru, and surrounding peaks.

  • Iconic highlights

The Machame route crosses through the scenic Southern Circuit, including the dramatic Barranco Wall, Shira Plateau, and Lava Tower.

  • Affordable and accessible

The Machame route for Kilimanjaro climbing is considered more affordable than other longer routes. It has a good safety profile and is accessible from the Kilimanjaro International Airport.

  • "Whiskey Route" Adventure

This route is challenging and rewarding too. There are challenges and adventure but also the scenic and fun.

Why choose us for the Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame route?

3S: Safety, Spirit, and Satisfaction

We are the best local trip operator. Booking an 9 days Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame route package for 2026 with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here's why:

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude ABC treks.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise.
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the trip.
  • Porter Service: A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Our representative will welcome you in the Kilimanjaro International Airport upon your arrival. Then, they will transfer you to the hotel in Moshi. On this first day of the 9 days of Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route itinerary, you will settle in, meet guides, and prepare for the trekking. 

Max Altitude: ~900m

On day 2, we will drive to the Machame Gate from Moshi. This is the full day of trekking following your arrival in Tanzania.

From the Machame gate, we will trek through the dense and mystical rainforest. The trail is filled with moss-covered trees, ferns, and tropical flowers like begonias. The trails are muddy and may be slippery in some sections. So, use gaiters on this segment. 

As we approach the Machame camp, the dense forest begins to thin into tall grasses and giant heather. Machame camp is basically a camp on the ridge. The dinner will be in mountain tents. 

Max Altitude: ~3,010m Duration: 5-7 hrsDistance: ~11 km

The third day is a transition day where we will leave the rainforest and ascend into the heath and moorland zone. 

We will begin our hike with a steady climb from the Machame camp out of the forest glades. There, we will cross a small valley and ascend a steep and rocky ridge covered in heather. The lush rainforest is replaced by the shorter shrubs, lobelias, and giant groundsels.

As we reach the top of the ridge, the views of the Shira Plateau, Kibo Peak, and potentially Mount Meru are visible. 

We will eventually reach the Shira Cave camp during lunchtime. The rest of the day is for the acclimatization walk or rest. You can choose one.

Max Altitude: ~3,840m Duration: 4-6 hrsDistance: ~5 km

This day is an important acclimatization day. There may be challenges and rewards ahead. A principle “climb high, sleep low” is followed. We will first ascend to the lava tower, gaining an altitude of nearly 800 m, before descending to the Barranco camp of the similar altitude loss. 

You can see the transition of the landscapes from the grasses and shrubs to dark and lunar landscapes. It is a gradual uphill climb, so you don’t have to worry about it. The lunch is in Lava Tower.

The descending trip is interesting too. We will trek through a unique Senecio Forest. As we come near the barranco camp, you can see the scenic campsite perched on the mountain. 

Max Altitude: ~3,960m (High: 4,630m) Duration: 6-8 hrsDistance: ~10 km

Like any other day, this section of the 9-day Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route itinerary is also filled with hiking adventures. 

We will resume our trip from the Barranco camp and hike towards the Karanga camp. The path goes through the barranco wall. Both hands and feet in certain sections are required to keep moving.

From the wall, you can see the stunning views of the Heim glacier and the volcanic landscape of Kibo. 

Thereafter, we will descend to the Karanga camp. There are several up-and-down ridges through the small valleys on the way. 

Max Altitude: ~3,995 m Duration: 4-5 hrsDistance: ~5 km

This segment of the Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route itinerary is a short but important ascent through the alpine desert habitat.

We will begin a steep uphill climb for the first hour. During this event, you will see the clear views of the Rebmann glacier and the summit to your left.

After that, we will continue our hike from the southern circuit to the Mweka trail. The trail goes through several cairns and a possible seismograph station. 

As we approach the last section before reaching the Barafu camp, there is a steep and rocky climb section.

Max Altitude: ~4,673 m Duration: 4-5 hrsDistance: ~4 km

The Barafu to Kilimanjaro summit hike and return to the Mweka hut is a physically and mentally demanding day of the Kilimanjaro climb itinerary. 

We will begin our hike from the Barafu camp through a steep and heavy scree in a northwesterly direction towards Stella Point. This part is the most challenging part of the entire 9-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame Route itinerary. 

After a brief moment at the peak, we will descend back to Barafu camp for lunch. Thereafter, we will resume the trip and trek to Mweka. The trail to Mweka goes through the alpine desert and moorland zones into the upper rainforest. The dinner is at Mweka Camp.

Max Altitude: ~5,895m (Summit) Duration: 12-16 hrsDistance: ~15 km

The Mweka camp to Moshi camp is the last day of the Kilimanjaro climbing via the Machame Route itinerary. It is a short and gentle hike.

We will start from the Mweka camp and then hike to the Moshi. The path goes through the lush montane forest. At the Mweka gate, we will sign out and collect our summit certificates. The completion celebration will be celebrated with traditional crews and a farewell ceremony. 

Then, we will drive to the hotel in Moshi.

Max Altitude: ~1,640m Duration: 3-5 hrsDistance: ~12 km

After the long trip, you will finally go to your destination. Our representative will drop you at the Kilimanjaro International Airport for the final departure. From there, you will fly to your destination. 

Max Altitude: ~900m
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Essential Info

Kilimanjaro climbing via the Machame route: difficulty, duration, and distance

Kilimanjaro climbing via the Machame route is considered challenging by many hikers due to the steep sections like the Barranco Wall and long summit day. The summit time takes around 12-16 hrs starting from midnight, facing the steep scree slopes and sub-zero temperatures.

However, no technical climbing is required to cross the barranco wall.

The total Machame route elevation gain is around 16,000 to 17,000 feet. The secondary challenge is climbing at extreme altitude at a summit of 5,895 m.

During the climbing, you will be traveling to the distinct climate zones, ranging from humid rainforests and moorlands to alpine deserts and the icy arctic summit.

The Machame route Kilimanjaro distance covered is approximately 62 km (37 miles) from gate to gate.

The trip typically lasts between 9 days (8 nights). This itinerary is for acclimatization and an increased summit success rate, as there are extra days for superior acclimatization.

Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame route is during the months from January to February and July to October. These months are best for climbing via the Machame route. The January and February months are best for the newbie and photographers and are less crowded than the mid-year peak.

July to September is the peak season for Kilimanjaro climbing via the Machame route. The weather is dry and stable. From September to October you can observe the balance of warm temperatures and very dry conditions.

Accommodation and food on the Machame route

During the climbing of Kilimanjaro via Machame, the accommodation is mainly camping. The other routes may feature the permanent huts, but on the Machame route, camping is the only option. All the gear, food, and water are carried and prepared by a dedicated support crew of porters and cooks. The porters set up the mobile tented camps at designated sites along the Machame route. The tents are high quality.

In terms of food, the breakfast option includes hot porridge, eggs (boiled or fried), sausages, bacon, toast with jam/honey, and fresh fruit. While lunch is often packed. The dinner includes pasta, rice, or potatoes served with meat (chicken/beef/fish) and vegetable sauces. There are beverages like hot tea, coffee, and hot chocolate available too.

Accommodation amenities

The amenities are very basic. There are basic public long-drop toilets in the campsites. Tents are shared among two. There are dining tents where groups eat. The dining tent is equipped with tables and chairs.

Acclimatization

The acclimatization during Kilimanjaro climbing is based on climbing high and sleeping low. By this, you don't need the dedicated acclimatization days. This principle aids in the body’s adaptation to the thin air. It is also best to consult the doctor before climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route.

Cost

A 9-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame Route generally costs between $2,500 and $4,500+ per person, depending upon the luxury level, group size, and inclusions. All the food, accommodation, staff pay, and higher safety standards are included in this price.

Equipment needed for the trip

  • A 30–35L daypack for daily essentials and a 70–90L waterproof duffel bag for the porters (limited to 15 kg/33 lbs).
  • A four-season sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C to -15°C (15°F to 0°F) and a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth.
  • Reusable Nalgene bottles and a hydration bladder.
  • Collapsible trekking tools and a headlamp with spare batteries.
  • Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms, fleece or soft-shell jackets, hiking pants, a breathable jacket, rain pants, a down jacket, lightweight liner gloves paired with heavy waterproof mittens, a knit hat covering the ears, and a Buff or neck gaiter.
  • Footwear like hiking boots, heavyweight wool socks, and thin liner socks.
  • Health and electronics like sun protection, wet wipes (for "wipe showers"), hand sanitizer, a pee bottle, a power bank, spare batteries, and personal medications.

Tips to make the trip successful

  • Follow the climb high and sleep days during your trip.
  • Incorporate it into fitness preparation before going on the Kilimanjaro climb.
  • Study the Kilimanjaro climbing via the Machame route map so that you can be prepared mentally before going for the trek.
  • Test your gear and equipment before your trip.
  • Prepare yourself for everything from humid rainforests to sub-zero summit temperatures. Wear layered clothing.
  • Stay hydrated and eat healthy snacks on the way.
  • Use the trekking poles while you are descending to protect your knees.
  • Avoid throwing the plastic bags anywhere.
FAQs

The cost for the Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame for 7 days is around roughly $2,100 to $3,500+ per person, depending on the operator.

The success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route is high due to the “climb high, sleep low” profile of the adventure.

The key landmarks on the Machame route are Machame Camp, Shira Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, Barranco Wall, Lava Tower, and Kilimanjaro Peak summit.

Yes, you can summit Kilimanjaro at night. In fact, it is a standard and recommended practice by the climbers.

Yes, there are plenty of African mountain climbing destinations. Besides Mount Kilimanjaro, the climbing destinations are the Rwenzori Mountains (Uganda), Mount Kenya (Kenya), the Atlas Mountains (Morocco), and the Drakensberg range (South Africa).

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