Machame Route Overview
Everything about the Machame Route.
The Machame route, often referred to as the “Whiskey” route, represents a thrilling six or seven-day camping trail and stands as the most favored route to conquer Kilimanjaro. This path doesn’t just promise astonishing views but also offers a reasonable challenge and ample time for acclimatization, making it an ideal choice for adventurers with flexible schedules.
Around 35% of all Kilimanjaro climbers opt for the Machame route, which has earned its moniker, “Whiskey Route,” due to its reputation for being more arduous than the Marangu route, often known as the “Coca-Cola” route. Unlike its counterpart, the Machame trail permits camping throughout the ascent, meaning trekkers will spend their nights in tents all the way up to the summit.
Travelers embarking on the Machame Route encounter several notable Kilimanjaro landmarks, including the renowned Lava Tower and the scenic Shira Plateau. Winding through a series of valleys and ridges, this route presents a slightly more demanding hike, yet rewards hikers with some of the most breathtaking vistas on the mountain.
Regarded as the most scenic of all routes up Mount Kilimanjaro, the Machame route captivates climbers with its diverse and distinctive landscapes on each day of the journey. This trail commences on the mountain’s south side, passing beneath the Southern Ice Field and culminating its summit approach from the Barafu Camp.
For adventurers with additional days in their itinerary, the Machame route emerges as an excellent choice. An extended period of acclimatization, spanning one or two extra days, substantially enhances the chances of summiting. Despite its more challenging nature compared to the Marangu route, trekkers on the Machame path often achieve greater summit success rates.
One of the notable challenges on this route is the Barranco Wall, a steep cliff face that might appear daunting at first. However, in reality, the Barranco section isn’t as formidable as it seems. While caution is necessary, scaling certain parts might involve using your hands for extra support. The climb typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half, with the panoramic view from the top justifying the effort.
Despite its scenic allure, the Machame Route can become crowded, particularly during peak seasons, owing to its popularity among Kilimanjaro trekkers. The high season sees trails and campsites bustling with activity, which is a downside for some.
Nonetheless, for those seeking the quintessential Kilimanjaro experience, the Machame route remains a choice difficult to surpass.
Golden Kit Tours and Safaris offers two options for the Machame route: a seven-day climb or a six-day climb. The six-day variation combines days four and five, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without a stopover at Karanga. Skipping Karanga Camp streamlines the ascent on the Machame Route.
Detailed Itinerary for Machame Route
Duration: 6 nights / 7 days Climb
Day 1: Machame Hut Camp
A brief drive leads to the Machame trailhead (~5,380’). After park ranger check-ins, the hike commences through montane forests, meandering through mossy jungle paths toward Machame Hut camp.
Hiking: 5-7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~9,350′
Day 2: Shira Plateau
Continuing through the forest after breakfast, the hike advances through the moorlands, offering splendid views of Kibo peak.
Hiking: 4-6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~12,500′
Day 3: Barranco Camp
A day focused on acclimatization as the journey includes an ascent to Lava Tower (~15,190’) for lunch before descending to the Barranco valley. Trekkers pass through diverse mountain zones, encountering striking landscapes.
Hiking: 6-8 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,044′
Day 4: Karanga Camp
Another day dedicated to acclimatization as you climb the steep Barranco Wall and traverse several ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga camp. There may be time for an acclimatization hike in the afternoon.
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,106′
Day 5: Barafu Camp
The trek continues through ridges and valleys, arriving at the final camp before the summit (Barafu camp). Following supper, a few hours of sleep precedes an early morning start for the summit ascent.
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~15,331′
Day 6: Summit and Mweka Camp
Commencing at midnight, the hike gradually ascends to Stella Point and then the summit. Due to altitude, a slow pace and adequate warm clothing are necessary. Post-celebration and photos at the summit, the descent leads to Mweka camp.
Hiking: 6-7 hours ascent to the summit, then 6-9 hours of descent
Summit: ~19,341′
Overnight Altitude: ~10,500′
Day 7: Mweka Park Gate (~5,000’) to Arusha
The final descent through the rainforest takes you to Mweka Gate. After lunch and bidding farewell to the mountain crew, depart from Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Return to Arusha for a comforting shower and celebratory dinner.
Hiking: 3-5 hours
FAQs:
How difficult is the Machame Route?
The Machame route is considered less challenging among Kilimanjaro routes due to its longer itinerary, allowing better acclimatization. However, it involves ascending the Barranco Wall and steep climbs on summit night. No technical climbing skills are needed, but a good level of fitness is recommended.
What is the distance and duration of the Machame Route?
The Machame Route spans approximately 62 km or 37 miles from the trailhead to the summit and Mweka gate. The minimum duration required is 6 days, but with arrival and departure days, it typically spans around 10 days. It’s advised to complete it over 7 or 8 days for higher success chances.
What is the Summit Success Rate for the Machame Route?
The climb-high-sleep-low method on the Machame route yields high summit success rates. While official statistics are unavailable, the average success rate for the 7-day trek is around 85%, and for the 6-day trek, it’s about 73%. However, our success rate for the Machame route is 95%.
What is the Scenery like on the Machame Route?
The Machame Route traverses five climatic zones, starting from rainforests on the lower slopes and moving into low alpine zones of grasslands and moorlands. It proceeds through high alpine zones before reaching the glacial zone, offering stunning vistas and visits to remarkable spots like Shira Plateau, Barranco, and Lava Tower.
When is the Best Time to Trek the Machame Route?
The optimal period for climbing Kilimanjaro is July-September, characterized by stable weather and lower chances of rainfall. Despite this, due to its equatorial location, climbing is feasible year-round. April and May, during the rainy season, are best avoided.
