Machame Route – 6 Days
Overview
“The Whiskey Route” – Challenging, Scenic, and Rewarding
Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” for its reputation as a tougher but more rewarding alternative to the “Coca-Cola Route” (Marangu), the Machame Route is a favorite among seasoned trekkers seeking adventure, challenge, and panoramic beauty. Though more physically demanding and slightly more expensive, it offers excellent acclimatization and an immersive journey through five distinct ecological zones.
The route ascends from the southwest through lush rainforest, across the expansive Shira Plateau, beneath the southern icefields of Kibo, and up the Great Barranco Wall. Trekkers enjoy stunning vistas, including the iconic Lava Tower, and descend via the scenic Mweka route.
While the route’s popularity can mean more foot traffic, its natural beauty and acclimatization profile make it one of the most successful summit routes. Ideal for trekkers with some hiking experience, it provides ample "climb high, sleep low" opportunities and an optional extra day to rest before the summit push.
Included/Excluded
- Park fees
- All accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
- Airport transfers
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides
- All transportation
- International flights
- Entry Visa to Tanzania
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Tour Plan
Day 0: Pre-Trek Briefing
If you've arranged airport transfers, we'll pick you up from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
In the evening, attend a pre-trek briefing where we’ll review your gear and ensure you're ready for the adventure ahead. We recommend arriving at least one day before the trek begins.
Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp
After breakfast and a short drive to Machame Gate, the trek begins through lush montane rainforest. The trail can be muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are useful.
- Elevation: 1830m to 3050m
- Distance: 11km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends through moorland, offering views of dramatic landscapes and volcanic ridges before reaching the Shira Plateau.
- Elevation: 3050m to 3850m
- Distance: 5km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
A key acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower at 4650m before descending to Barranco Camp. The high-altitude exposure helps your body adjust for summit night.
- Elevation: 3850m to 4000m
- Distance: 10km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Semi-Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp (via Karanga Valley)
Climb the Great Barranco Wall and traverse the Karanga Valley before reaching Barafu Camp. This challenging day rewards you with spectacular views and marks the completion of the South Circuit.
- Elevation: 4000m to 4700m
- Distance: 9km
- Time: 6–8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Summit Day. Start early to reach Stella Point in time for sunrise, then push to Uhuru Peak—the roof of Africa. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
- Elevation: 4700m to 5895m (then down to 3090m)
- Distance: 5km ascent / 13km descent
- Time: 5–7 hours up / 5–6 hours down
- Habitat: Arctic to Forest
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
A short final descent through the forest leads to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Moshi.
- Elevation: 3090m to 1680m
- Distance: 10km
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals: Breakfast