Machame Route – 9 Day Scheduled Trekking Tour
The 9-Day Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers a challenging but highly rewarding trekking experience with excellent acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
This route takes you through diverse landscapes including lush rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the glaciated summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m). It is ideal for adventurous trekkers who want a true mountain experience with breathtaking scenery and strong summit success rates.
DAY 1
Arrival in Tanzania (Arusha / Moshi)
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
In the evening, you will meet your guide for a full briefing, equipment check, and preparation for the climb. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 2
Machame Gate – Machame Camp
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate for registration. Begin your trek through dense rainforest, home to monkeys, exotic birds, and rich vegetation.
The trail is muddy but beautiful and full of natural life.
Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Dinner and overnight at Machame Camp.
DAY 3
Machame Camp – Shira Camp
Continue climbing out of the rainforest into moorland. Enjoy stunning views of Kibo Peak as the landscape opens up. This is a moderate but steady ascent.
Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Dinner and overnight at Shira Camp.
DAY 4
Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
A key acclimatization day. Trek up to Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending to Barranco Camp. This helps your body adjust to altitude.
Elevation: 3,840m to 4,600m to 3,900m
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
DAY 5
Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Start the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling and scenic scramble. Continue through ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp.
Elevation: 3,900m to 3,995m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.
DAY 6
Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
Trek to Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for your midnight summit attempt.
Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Dinner and overnight at Barafu Camp.
DAY 7
Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Around midnight, begin your summit climb. Reach Stella Point at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Barafu and continue down to Mweka Camp.
Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m to 3,100m
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Dinner and overnight at Mweka Camp.
DAY 8
Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Arusha or Moshi for rest and celebration
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overnight at hotel.
DAY9
Departure
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Tanzania before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight or optional safari extension.