Picture this: your journey unfolds through lush rainforests, vast moorlands, and exciting rugged terrain, painting a vivid tapestry of experiences. Welcome to the renowned Machame Route, fondly known as the ‘Whiskey route’. Wondering about the backstory? Well, it got its name from the adventurous spirit it takes to conquer it! This route offers a thrilling challenge, perfect for those looking for an exhilarating climb. This route is one of the most sought-after trails to reach the summit of this iconic mountain. Offering a perfect blend of challenge and stunning scenery, the Machame Route is a favorite among adventurers seeking an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

The trail is incredibly diverse, leading climbers through lush rainforests, heathlands, moorlands, and high alpine deserts. This variety of landscapes provides a visually captivating journey. Throughout the route, you’ll encounter some of the most awe-inspiring views of Kilimanjaro. From the dense and mystical rainforest at the lower slopes to the stark and dramatic landscapes of the upper zones, every step reveals a new perspective.

Proper acclimatization is a top priority on this route. A thoughtfully planned itinerary includes strategic acclimatization days at key points along the ascent, ensuring your body adapts safely to the increasing altitudes. The summit push from Barafu Camp is an exhilarating endeavor. Climbers rise in the early hours, making their way up steep, rocky terrain to Stella Point, and then on to the ultimate goal: Uhuru Peak. The view from the summit is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The descent typically spans 1.5 days, allowing for a gradual return to lower altitudes. This aids in recovery and provides an opportunity to savor the scenery one last time. The Machame Route is popular for its stunning vistas and diverse landscapes. It’s often chosen by climbers who want a well-rounded experience of Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.

You are promised an incredible journey, blending challenges with breathtaking scenery. From the lush rainforests to the stark alpine deserts, every step brings you closer to the Roof of Africa. Your Kilimanjaro adventure awaits, and we’re here to make it an unforgettable, awe-inspiring experience!

For a safe and successful climb, we highly recommend enlisting the expertise of experienced outfitters and guides. 

Here’s how a typical itinerery looks like climbing with Embark’s team.

DAY 1: Arrive Moshi​

Welcome to Moshi- the more quaint, laid-back of the small towns sitting at the base of the famed Mount Kilimanjaro! Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro International airport you will be met by our Embark representatives, who will provide transportation to your hotel. No activities are planned for the day. You are free to explore picturesque downtown Moshi.

DAY 2: Free in Moshi. Overnight in hotel

Group briefing and pre-trip discussion. You will be introduced to your trekking guide and have a comprehensive gear check. You are free to explore some more, take part in informal group tour around town; visit the market or a local coffee shop for lunch. Moshi is a relatively small, comfortable city that has a reputation for being somewhat laid-back compared to its sister city of Arusha, so feel free to wander. There will also be time to do last-minute shopping for the trek if needed.

DAY 3: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Depart Moshi for Machame Gate where you will complete entry formalities. With flora and fauna heavier and richer here than on any other route through the thick rainforest, the Machame Route cuts through underbrush that is so untouched it at times grows right across the narrow trail. After 5-7 hours, we’ll reach our camp for the night.

DAY 4: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Today is an easy paced acclimatization day. You will hike over streams, a river gorge, and moorlands. Camp is located on the Shira Plateau, providing views of Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru.

DAY 5: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Today is an important acclimization day as you travel up to 15,000ft, then descend to the Barranco Camp at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at almost the same elevation as when you started, the day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.

DAY 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day mean for acclimatization.

DAY 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

After breakfast, we leave Karanga and hit the junction, which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Camp. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner and prepare for Summit Day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo can be seen from this position.

DAY 8: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut

Very early in the morning (midnight to 1:00 am), we begin our journey to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.

At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit.

From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

DAY 9: Mweka Camp to Gate

After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).

DAY 10: Departure

Departure for airport for international flight home or add-on safari (if participating in a safari; please make sure to book your international flight home in the evening).