6 Days/ 5 Nights
$ 1800.00
The Machame Route — often referred to as the “Whiskey” route — is the most frequently chosen path to climb Kilimanjaro. Its major appeal lies in the stunning and varied scenery along the way. That said, this trail is known to be demanding, with steep sections and a relatively tight schedule, making it more suitable for adventurous climbers or those with prior high-altitude trekking or backpacking experience.
This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the south, starting with a short transfer from Moshi to Machame Gate. From there, trekkers pass through lush rainforest and continue up to the Shira Plateau, where several other routes meet. The trail then veers eastward, crossing below the Southern Ice Field along what is known as the Southern Circuit, before making the final ascent from Barafu Camp. Descent is made via the Mweka Route.
After your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to Chanya Lodge for an overnight stay (B&B). Your head guide will meet you for a complete briefing, conduct a gear inspection, and assist with renting any equipment required for the trek.
Elevation: 1811m / 5,942ft → 3021m / 9,911ft
Total Ascent: 1,210m
The day begins with a 45-minute drive from Moshi through Machame Village to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. While permits are processed, you can observe the lively preparations of various trekking teams setting out for their climbs. The hike begins through lush rainforest with twisting trails as your guide shares insights about the region’s plants, animals, and local ecology. Due to the damp environment at lower elevations, the trail may be muddy and slick — gaiters and trekking poles are strongly advised.
Elevation: 3021m / 9,911ft → 3839m / 12,595ft
Total Ascent: 818m
Following a restful night and a filling breakfast, we leave the rainforest behind and continue climbing along an upward trail. We traverse a valley via a rugged, steep ridge before the path curves westward into a river gorge, eventually leading us to the Shira campsite. The weather becomes noticeably colder at this point.
Elevation: 3839m / 12,595ft → 3986m / 13,077ft
Total Ascent: 147m
Even though you finish the day at almost the same elevation where you started, this stage plays a crucial role in altitude acclimatization. From the Shira Plateau, the path goes east up a ridge, passing the junction to Kibo Peak before turning southeast towards Lava Tower—also known as “Shark’s Tooth” (4650m / 15,250ft). Shortly after Lava Tower, another junction appears leading to Arrow Glacier. From there, the trail descends to Barranco Camp for the night.
Elevation: 3986m / 13,077ft → 4034m / 13,235ft → 4662m / 15,295ft
Total Ascent: 676m
Following breakfast, we climb along a steep ridge toward the dramatic Barranco Wall, then descend into the Karanga Valley and reach the junction that meets the Mweka Trail. This day is especially memorable as you watch the crew navigate the wall with remarkable speed and skill. We then continue up to Barafu Camp. Arriving here marks the completion of the South Circuit, known for its spectacular panoramic views of the summit from multiple vantage points. We have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit attempt tonight. Overnight stay at Barafu Camp.
Elevation: 4662m / 15,295ft → 5895m / 19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1233m
Descent to: 3106m / 10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m
Anticipation mounts as we wake for an early start between midnight and 2 AM. This stretch is considered the toughest mentally and physically.
We push toward the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, keeping ourselves warm and motivated by the achievement ahead. In a northwesterly zigzag, we climb through thick scree until we reach Stella Point at the crater rim, where you’ll be greeted by an unforgettable sunrise during a short rest. Faster climbers may catch the sunrise directly from the summit. The final hour to Uhuru Peak is typically snow-covered.
Congratulations — step by step, you have reached Uhuru Peak: the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent!
After taking photos, celebrating, and soaking in the moment, we begin the steep descent to Mweka Camp, with a stop at Barafu for lunch and a very short break. Because of loose gravel and volcanic ash, gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. A well-earned rest awaits you at Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 3106m / 10,190ft → 1633m / 5,358ft
Total Descent: 1473m
Following breakfast and a warm farewell ceremony with your trekking team, the descent continues toward the Mweka Park Gate where summit certificates are issued. With the climate becoming significantly warmer, the trail becomes wet, muddy and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are strongly advised.
From the gate, a vehicle will be waiting in Mweka village to transport you back to your Moshi hotel — an approximately 30-minute drive.
Pick-up and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Transfer to the trailhead - entry gate to Kilimanjaro National Park
Pick-up at the exit from Kilimanjaro National Park and transfer to the hotel
All park fees collected by the Kilimanjaro National Park ( conservation fees, camping fees, crew fees, vehicle fee, rescue fee and all other fees collected by the Tanzania National Parks Authority).
One night at Salinero hotel before the expedition and one night after; The hotels have everything for your comfortable stay - caring staff, nice rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant); Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (modern, comfortable 4-Season tents North Face VE-25 or Almighty Kilimanjaro Tents).
Breakfast in the hotel before and after the hike
All meals on the hike. Our Kilimanjaro diet includes energy-rich and highly nutritious meals prepared by our professional high-altitude cooks. A typical diet on Kilimanjaro includes different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost; All drinks on the hike (coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water).
4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats
All group equipment (spacious and comfortable dining tent, camping table and chairs, crockery and cutlery)
Oxygen cylinders and oximeters
GPS-tracking service
Complete medical kits
Professional guides, licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. All our guides are the holder of Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid certifications. All our guides have 10+years of successful mountaineering experience.
Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.)
Airline tickets
Visa fee
Personal gear rentals
Tips for the mountain crew
Mountaineering insurance
