7 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing: Machame (Whiskey Route)
Tanzania
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The most scenic route on Kilimanjaro, forest, moorland, and glacier in seven days.
The Machame Route, often referred to as the "Whiskey Route," begins on the southwestern side of Mount Kilimanjaro and is completed in 7 days. Known for its striking scenery, it is a popular choice among photographers and nature lovers. The route follows a "hike high, sleep low" strategy throughout, enhancing acclimatisation and making it one of the most favourable options for climbers aiming for the summit. Throughout the journey, climbers transition from lush rainforest to moorland, alpine desert, and finally the glacier zones near the summit, revealing the full diversity of Kilimanjaro's ecosystems.
Safari Highlights
- "Hike high, sleep low" acclimatisation strategy throughout
- Passes Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and Barafu Camp
- Diverse landscapes, rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
- Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters included
- Airport transfers and return shuttle Nairobi–Moshi included
- All meals on the mountain included
7 Days Machame Route: Per Person Rates (Validity: 5th Jan – 20th Dec)
| Group Size | Non-Resident (USD) | Resident (KSH) |
|---|---|---|
| 2–3 Passengers | USD 2,800 | KSH 350,000 |
| 4–6 Passengers | USD 2,500 | KSH 305,250 |
Shuttle from Nairobi to Moshi (approximately 5–6 hours). On arrival in Moshi, meet your mountain crew and complete registration at the Kilimanjaro National Park gate. Drive to Machame Gate (1,800 m) and begin the hike through dense montane rainforest to Machame Camp (2,835 m). Overnight in tents.
Morning hike from Machame Camp up through the heath and moorland zone to Shira Camp (3,840 m). The vegetation thins as you gain altitude, and on clear days the views of the Shira Plateau open up ahead. Approximately 5–6 hours of hiking. Overnight in tents.
A key acclimatisation day. Hike up to Lava Tower (4,630 m), higher than you will sleep tonight, before descending to Barranco Camp (3,950 m) in the alpine desert zone. This "hike high, sleep low" approach is central to the Machame route's success rate. Overnight in tents.
Begin with the famous Barranco Wall, a scrambling ascent that looks intimidating but is manageable for most climbers. Once at the top, traverse across the southern face to Karanga Camp (4,035 m). Afternoon rest and acclimatisation. Overnight in tents.
A shorter hiking day (3.3 km / approximately 3–4 hours) up through the alpine desert to Barafu Camp (4,673 m), the main high camp before the summit push. Arrive early, eat well, and rest. The summit attempt begins at midnight. Overnight in tents.
Midnight start for the summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), approximately 5–7 hours of climbing through glaciers and snow-capped terrain at altitude. Summit at dawn if conditions allow. Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for a well-earned rest. A long but deeply rewarding day. Overnight in tents.
Final descent from Mweka Camp through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m). Collect your summit certificates at the park gate. Transfer to Moshi for a meal and rest before the shuttle back to Nairobi.
What's Included
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fee
- Accommodation in tents on the mountain
- Transportation to and from the mountain gate
- Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- 2-way airport transfers (1 on arrival, 1 on departure)
- Return shuttle bus Nairobi–Moshi–Nairobi
What's Excluded
- Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel or medical insurance (required, ask for a recommendation)
- Medication
- Personal spending money for souvenirs
- Energy food, beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal hire gear (trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.)