The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular trails to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. This 6-day itinerary is designed for those with a good fitness level, providing breathtaking views while maximizing your chances of a successful summit.

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Elevation: 1,800m (5,905 ft) to 3,000m (9,843 ft)
Distance: ~11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

• Highlights: Begin your journey at the Machame Gate after registration and briefing. The trek starts through lush rainforest, with sights of unique flora and occasional wildlife.
• Overnight: Machame Camp.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Elevation: 3,000m (9,843 ft) to 3,850m (12,631 ft)
Distance: ~5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

• Highlights: Leave the rainforest behind as the trail ascends through the moorland. You’ll encounter dramatic landscapes with views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau.
• Overnight: Shira Camp.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)

Elevation: 3,850m (12,631 ft) to 3,960m (12,992 ft)
Distance: ~10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert

• Highlights: This is an important acclimatization day. Trek to Lava Tower at 4,640m (15,223 ft) before descending to Barranco Camp. The “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to the altitude.
• Overnight: Barranco Camp, located below the impressive Barranco Wall.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,960m (12,992 ft) to 4,035m (13,238 ft)
Distance: ~5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert

• Highlights: Tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble offering incredible views. Continue through undulating terrain to Karanga Camp.
• Overnight: Karanga Camp.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,035m (13,238 ft) to 4,640m (15,223 ft)
Distance: ~4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert

• Highlights: A relatively short hike to Barafu Camp, your staging point for the summit attempt. Rest in the afternoon, have an early dinner, and prepare for the night climb.
• Overnight: Barafu Camp.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,640m (15,223 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft), then down to 3,080m (10,105 ft)
Distance: ~5 km (3 miles) ascent, ~12 km (7.5 miles) descent
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours (6-8 hours to summit, 4-6 hours to descend)
Habitat: Arctic (summit), alpine desert (descent)

• Highlights: Begin the summit attempt at midnight, trekking through the dark under a blanket of stars. Reach Stella Point at sunrise, then proceed to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the views, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
• Overnight: Mweka Camp.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,080m (10,105 ft) to 1,640m (5,380 ft)
Distance: ~10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

• Highlights: A leisurely descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificate and celebrate your accomplishment!