Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic paths to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Unlike other routes, the Machame Route allows trekkers to experience Kilimanjaro’s beauty from multiple perspectives. The journey begins in the dense rainforests of the mountain, where exotic flora and fauna flourish. As you ascend, the landscape gradually transforms into moorlands and heath, offering breathtaking views of the savannah below. Finally, the barren alpine desert awaits, leading trekkers to the iconic Uhuru Peak.
History of the Machame Route
While the Marangu Route gained popularity due to its relative ease and comfort with hut accommodations, the Machame Route began to emerge as an alternative for climbers seeking a more challenging and scenic path.
The Machame Route, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse terrain, had been used for centuries by local Chagga people as a trade route between the lower slopes and the higher plateau regions of Kilimanjaro. Its existence as a traditional trail made it a viable option for mountaineers, and its growing popularity led to further exploration and development.
Over the years, the Machame Route underwent developments to ensure the safety and convenience of climbers. Improved infrastructure, such as designated campsites and established trails, were introduced to accommodate the influx of trekkers.
The Challenges and Rewards of Climbing the Machame Route
- Perseverance and Determination – Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route demands mental and physical perseverance. Overcoming obstacles, pushing your limits, and staying focused on the goal are essential for a successful climb.
- Witnessing Breathtaking Landscapes – Throughout the journey, trekkers are treated to ever-changing landscapes that vary from lush rainforests to rugged terrains. The captivating views make the challenges worthwhile.
- The Sense of Accomplishment – Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is an extraordinary accomplishment. Standing at Uhuru Peak, surrounded by vast landscapes, evokes a sense of pride and achievement.
Safety Measures and Tips for a Successful Climb
- Acclimatization – To avoid altitude sickness, acclimatization is crucial. Climbers should take their time and ascend gradually, allowing their bodies to adjust to the changing altitude.
- Hydration and Nutrition – staying hydrated and well-nourished is essential for maintaining energy levels during the climb. Proper nutrition helps the body cope with the physical demands of the trek.
- Listen to Your Guide – Experienced guides are invaluable companions during the climb. Following their instructions and advice enhances the chances of a safe and successful expedition.
Difficulty Level and Preparation
The Machame Route is considered challenging, and climbers should be in good physical condition. Preparing for the climb with regular exercises, cardiovascular training, and strength building is essential. Acclimatization to high altitudes is also crucial for a successful summit attempt.
Duration of the Climb
The entire Machame Route expedition usually takes about 6 to 7 days. The longer duration allows for better acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful climb.
Best Time to Trek the Machame Route
The dry season from late June to October and the short rainy season from December to February are the best times to trek the Machame Route. These periods offer clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making the climb more enjoyable.
7 DAY MACHAME ITINERARY
DAY 1 – Machame Gate to Machame Camp
It takes roughly 50 minutes to travel from Moshi to the Machame Gate. On the lower slopes of the mountain, in the village of Machame, the journey passes through. We take a winding trail through the dense rain forest as we leave the park gate and climb up a ridge until we reach the Machame Camp.
Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 11 km | 7 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest
DAY 2 – Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp
We leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path up to a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.
Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Health
DAY 3 – Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
We continue eastward along a ridge before turning southeastward in the direction of the 300-foot-tall Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation. We descend to an elevation of 13,000 feet before entering the strange but lovely Senecio Forest. Even though you start and end each day at the same elevation, spending time at a higher altitude helps your body adjust to the higher altitude.
Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 7 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 3 km | 2 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 4 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
We start the day by making our way down a ravine to the Great Barranco Wall’s base. Then we ascend the nearly 900-foot cliff, which is not technically difficult. We travel through a number of hills and valleys after leaving the top of the Barranco Wall before making a sharp turn into the Karanga Valley. We have one more steep ascent before we reach Karanga Camp. Acclimatization is the goal of today’s shorter day.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 5 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Following our departure from Karanga, we arrive at the intersection where the Mweka Trail joins. The rocky ascent to Barafu Hut is what we do next. The Southern Circuit, which provides views of the summit from a variety of angles, is now complete. To get ready for the summit day, we set up camp here, rest, and eat a leisurely early dinner. From this vantage point, one can see Mawenzi and Kibo’s two peaks.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 4 km | 2 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 6 – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
We start the ascent very early in the morning (around midnight). The hardest part of the trek both physically and mentally is this section. At this altitude and time of day, the wind and cold can be very strong. We climb in the dark for several hours, stopping frequently but only briefly. You will be rewarded with the most breathtaking sunrise you are ever likely to see approaching Mawenzi Peak close to Stella Point (18,900 feet). Finally, we reach Uhuru Peak, which is both Mount Kilimanjaro’s and Africa’s highest point.
We now begin our descent from the summit, going straight down to the Mweka Hut campsite while stopping at Barafu for lunch. Trekking poles are helpful because the trail is very rocky and can be quite taxing on the knees. Due to its location in the upper forest, Mweka Camp may experience late-afternoon mist or rain. We have our final meal on the mountain later in the evening before a well-earned rest.
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 12 km | 7 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest
DAY 7 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
We continue the descent to Mweka Gate on our final day, where we pick up the summit certificates. It might be muddy and wet at lower altitudes. We travel another hour to Mweka Village from the gate. We’ll be picked up by a car at Mweka Village and taken back to our Moshi hotel.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 10 km | 6 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest
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