The Machame Route (also called the “Whiskey Route”) is one of the most popular and scenic treks up Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m / 19,341ft). It takes 7 days, giving enough time to acclimatize to altitude. The route approaches Kilimanjaro from the southwest and descends via the Mweka Route. Trekkers enjoy varied landscapes: lush rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zone. With proper preparation, determination, and support from guides/porters, most trekkers can reach the summit at Uhuru Peak, the “Roof of Africa.”
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Distance: ~11 km
What to expect:
Register at Machame Gate.
Trek through lush rainforest, spotting monkeys and exotic birds.
Path can be muddy, trekking poles helpful.
Overnight at Machame Camp.
Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Distance: ~5 km
What to expect:
Steady climb leaving rainforest into heather and moorland.
Beautiful views of Shira Plateau.
Cooler temperatures.
Overnight at Shira Camp.
Hiking time: 6–8 hours
Distance: ~10 km
What to expect:
“Climb high, sleep low” day for acclimatization.
Lunch at Lava Tower (4,630m), where some feel mild altitude effects.
Descend to Barranco Camp, below the Great Barranco Wall.
One of the most scenic days.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Distance: ~5 km
What to expect:
Climb the Barranco Wall (a fun, non-technical scramble).
Walk through valleys with views of glaciers.
Shorter day, good for acclimatization.
Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Distance: ~4 km
What to expect:
Steep climb to Barafu (base camp).
Landscape is alpine desert: barren and windy.
Rest early, prepare for summit night.
Dinner and sleep early at Barafu.
Hiking time: 11–15 hours (longest day)
Distance: ~17 km
What to expect:
Midnight start for summit attempt.
Very cold, slow pace (pole pole).
Reach Stella Point (5,739m) at sunrise, then final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate at summit, take photos.
Long descent to Mweka Camp via Barafu.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Distance: ~10 km
What to expect:
Final descent through rainforest.
Collect summit certificates at Mweka Gate.
Drive back to hotel in Moshi/Arusha for hot shower & celebration.
