6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Trek
Machame Route Kilimanjaro
Trip Overview
On Mount Kilimanjaro, the Machame route is regarded as one of the busiest and most stunning routes. The Machame route begins with a brief drive from Moshi to Machame Gate or from Arusha to the Machame gate, and is located closer to Mount Kilimanjaro from the south. The route offers views of Mount Meru and Shira Ridge as well as access to the Shira Plateau through the Montana forest. The 6-day climb up Mount Kilimanjaro is highly advised and frequently used because it gives you plenty of time to acclimatise.
day by day
Your transfer specialist will meet you at the Kilimanjaro Airport promptly upon arrival, extend a warm welcome, and then drive you to the Moshi or Arusha hotel of your choice. Your mountain guide will meet you that evening to give you a hike briefing, check your trekking supplies, and make sure you have everything you need to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Distance: 10 kilometers
Hiking Time: Approximately 5-6 hours
That after breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and driven an hour to the Machame entrance Gate of Mount Kilimanjaro. Your guide will register you at the gate and weigh the luggage of the porter. While you wait, you’ll be given a lunchbox and given enough water to start your hike. After completing this, you can begin your hiking adventure in the lovely Montana forest, which is home to lovely trees, old fern trees, lichen, beautiful flowers, and endemic flowers. At 2850 metres above sea level, the Machame camp is situated above the trees.
Distance: 6 kilometers
Hiking Time:4 hours
After an early breakfast, you will begin your second day of trekking. As you ascend the steeper path, the scenery shifts to moor and heathland, giving you a clear view of the thrilling mountain range. You will reach the Shira Camp by mid-afternoon on the second day because it is a shorter distance than the first. The sun illuminates Kibo’s rock face and glacier as it sets, giving the camp an amazing view of the mountain.
After a hearty breakfast, you will set out on a hike to Lava Tower, which is 4640 metres above sea level, where you will stop for lunch before continuing on to Barranco Camp, which is 4940 metres above sea level. As a result, your body will be able to adjust to the relative altitude very well. With some of its stunning flowers, like Senecio Kilimanjaro and Lobelia, the vegetation will start to change and turn into an alpine desert.
After a hearty breakfast, you will set out on a hike to Lava Tower, which is 4640 metres above sea level, where you will stop for lunch before continuing on to Barranco Camp, which is 4940 metres above sea level. As a result, your body will be able to adjust to the relative altitude very well. With some of its stunning flowers, like Senecio Kilimanjaro and Lobelia, the vegetation will start to change and turn into an alpine desert.
Distance:5.5 kilometers to Uhuru
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
time:4-5 hours from Barafu to Mweka
The trek will begin at midnight after hot tea and light snacks. You will ascend Kibo’s sandstone cliffs by using a headlight. You will reach Stella Point, the crater rim of Mount Kilimanjaro, after spending 5 to 6 hours climbing in the dark. You’ll possess You must hike for an additional hour along the crater ridge to reach Uhuru Peak, the summit at 5,895 metres. Here, you can take in a 360-degree view of the landscape below and see Kilimanjaro in all its splendour as the sun rises. Right now, you are on the “Top of Africa.” After taking pictures and conducting all of your explorations, a straightforward descent begins almost along the same route, and just before noon, you will return to Barafu Camp. There, you will enjoy a hot meal and a well-earned break before continuing your descent to Mweka Camp (3,080 metres).
After breakfast, a customary ceremony from the mountain teams will precede your incredible Kilimanjaro climbing adventure. The descent through the rainforest continues for another three hours to Mweka Gate, where your transfer driver will be waiting for you. You will be driven to the prearranged hotel in Moshi or Arusha by the driver.
Upon finishing breakfast, The office driver will take you to Kilimanjaro airport, or you can extend your trip to Tanzania by adding Safari and Zanzibar holiday.
Start and end in Arusha
We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don’t hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
Highlights of the Machame Route
Stunning Landscapes and Views
The Machame Route, often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. As trekkers ascend from the dense rainforest at the base of the mountain to the sparse alpine desert near the summit, they are treated to a diverse array of scenery. The route offers panoramic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro’s towering glaciers, the expansive Shira Plateau, and the distant peaks of Mount Meru. Sunset views from the Shira Camp and the sight of the Uhuru Peak from the Barranco Wall are particularly awe-inspiring, making this route a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Diverse Flora and Fauna
One of the highlights of the Machame Route is the rich biodiversity encountered along the trek. Starting in the lush rainforest, trekkers can spot blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and a variety of bird species. As the trail ascends, the landscape transitions into heath and moorland zones, home to unique plants like the giant groundsels and lobelias. The higher alpine desert and arctic zones, though sparse in vegetation, offer fascinating geological features and resilient plant species adapted to the harsh environment. This journey through diverse ecosystems provides an educational and visually stimulating experience.
Optimal Acclimatization Schedule
The Machame Route is known for its effective acclimatization profile, which significantly increases the chances of reaching the summit. The route typically spans over six to seven days, allowing trekkers to “climb high, sleep low,” a key principle in altitude acclimatization. With its gradual ascent and strategic overnight camps at varying altitudes, the route helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The extra days on the trail not only enhance acclimatization but also allow trekkers to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and unique features of each camp, making the journey both safer and more enjoyable.
Preparing for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
Essential Gear and Supplies
Preparing for a Kilimanjaro trek requires careful packing of essential gear and supplies. Key items include a high-quality, waterproof backpack, sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for varying temperatures, and a warm sleeping bag. Other essentials are a headlamp, trekking poles, a first aid kit, and sufficient water bottles or a hydration system. Don’t forget sun protection gear such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, as well as energy-boosting snacks. Proper preparation ensures comfort and safety throughout the trek, enabling trekkers to focus on the adventure ahead.
Fitness and Training Tips
Physical preparation is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. Trekkers should start training several months in advance, focusing on cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance. Regular hiking on varied terrain, carrying a loaded backpack, is excellent preparation. Incorporate strength training exercises, particularly for the legs, core, and upper body, to handle the demands of the trek. Additionally, practice breathing exercises and yoga to enhance flexibility and lung capacity. Consistent training helps build the stamina and resilience needed to tackle the challenging ascent and enjoy the experience fully.
FAQs about the Machame Route
How long is the Machame Route?
- The Machame Route is approximately 62 kilometers (37 miles) long and typically takes six to seven days to complete, depending on the itinerary chosen.
What is the difficulty level of the Machame Route?
- The Machame Route is considered moderately difficult due to its length and steep sections. It requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization.
What are the accommodation options on the Machame Route?
- Accommodation on the Machame Route consists of tented campsites. Trekkers sleep in tents set up by their trekking crew at designated campsites along the route.
Is it possible to trek the Machame Route independently?
- No, trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, including the Machame Route, requires a licensed guide and a support team as mandated by Tanzanian regulations.
What is the best time of year to hike the Machame Route?
- The best times to hike the Machame Route are during the dry seasons, from January to mid-March and from June to October, when weather conditions are more favorable.
How can I prepare for altitude on the Machame Route?
- To prepare for altitude, engage in regular aerobic exercise, follow a gradual acclimatization schedule, stay hydrated, and consider consulting a doctor about altitude sickness medication.
What wildlife might I see on the Machame Route?
- While wildlife sightings are less common at higher altitudes, trekkers may encounter blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various bird species in the rainforest section of the trek.