Machame Route
7 days
Also known as the "Whiskey Route," Machame is one of the most popular routes on Kilimanjaro, offering stunning scenery and diverse landscapes. It's a challenging route but provides excellent acclimatization opportunities. You will overnight in tents.
At Genes Adventures, we present the Machame Route in both 6 and 7-day variants, sharing identical paths with the sole discrepancy being an additional day at altitude. We strongly advocate for this supplementary day, affording trekkers the chance to savor the mountain experience fully.
Day 1
Following breakfast, head to the Marangu gate. While your guide arranges climbing permits, savor a coffee or tea. Then, delve into the natural rainforest enveloping the lower slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, offering splendid photo opportunities and a chance to spot black and white colobus monkeys. Your first overnight stay will be at Machame Camp, where hot water is available for refreshing before dinner.
Overnight at Machame Camp - 2,980 meters (Lunch, Dinner)
Day 2
Today's ascent takes you away from the lush rainforest into ridges adorned with lowland bush, transitioning into Alpine flora. The hike, lasting 5 to 6.5 hours with a picnic lunch, treats you to breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru in the distance.
Overnight at Shira Camp - 3,840 meters (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3
After a hearty breakfast prepared by your mountain chef, embark on a gradual climb through Alpine bush, with opportunities for birdwatching. The landscape changes to rusty red moraine fields as you approach Lava Tower at 4,630 meters before descending to Baranco Camp. This day serves for acclimatization, with walking time averaging between 5 to 7 hours.
Overnight at Baranco Camp - 3,900 meters (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4
Following breakfast, tackle the Baranco wall ascent, which appears more daunting than it is. Upon reaching Karanga Camp, enjoy a hot lunch followed by relaxation or a short side walk for altitude acclimatization.
Overnight at Karanga Camp - 3,963 meters (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5
Today's journey takes you around the mountain's south side, traversing Alpine desert and moraine fields to reach Barafu Camp in 4.5 to 6 hours. Rest and absorb the panoramic vistas as you prepare for the final ascent, beginning around midnight.
Overnight at Barafu Camp - 4,600 meters (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6
Equip yourself for the ascent to Africa's highest peak, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters. Capture the sunrise with your cameras before descending to Barafu Camp for breakfast and a brief rest. Proceed downward to Mweka Camp.
Overnight at Mweka Camp - Altitude: 2,985 meters (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7
The final leg entails descending into the forest, offering scenic views and birdwatching opportunities. Arrive at the gate for celebrations and a champagne brunch with the entire team before your transfer back to the hotel for well-deserved showers and relaxation.
(Breakfast, Lunch)
