Climb Through Kilimanjaro’s Most Popular Path
Machame Route
Discover the Machame route on Kilimanjaro, also known as the “Whiskey” route. This path is famous for its stunning views and is the most chosen route by climbers. Though beautiful, the trail is tough and steep. So, this route is best suited for adventurous climbers or those with experience in hiking at high altitudes.
“The summit is what drives us, but the climb itself is what matters.”
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The journey on the Machame route starts in the south with a short drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. Climbers then walk through a thick rainforest, climbing up to the Shira Plateau where paths from different routes meet. The route then heads east, passing under Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field, providing fantastic views before summiting from the Barafu Camp. The return trip down the mountain uses the Mweka route.
Key Highlights on the Machame Route include:
- Walk through a dense, green rainforest up to the open Shira Plateau.
- Experience the grandeur of passing beneath the Southern Ice Field.
- Achieve the summit from Barafu with unforgettable panoramic views.
With Kili Vikings, choose either a 6-day or 7-day climbing package on the Machame route, tailored for an exceptional mountaineering adventure.
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Overview
Machame Route Map
The Machame route starts at the Machame Gate, situated at an elevation of 5,400 feet on the southern lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. Heading north, the path leads climbers first to Machame Hut, then onto the expansive Shira Plateau.
From there, it veers east toward Lava Tower, then weaves across to Barranco, Karanga, and finally to Barafu for the summit attempt. The peak of the climb is Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 19,340 feet.
For the descent, climbers take a separate path that moves south from Barafu to exit through Mweka Gate, completing their journey down the mountain.
Highlights
Trip Highlights
- Break in your hiking boots before the climb to prevent blisters.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated to lessen altitude sickness.
- Practice camping before your trek to become comfortable with outdoor living.
- Make and check your packing list thoroughly to ensure you have everything.
At A Glance
Machame Route
- The total distance of the Machame Route is 62 km or 39 miles.
- The difficulty level of the route is rated as medium.
- Typically, it takes 6-7 days to complete the Machame Route.
- The success rate for reaching the summit is high.
Climb Kilimanjaro’s Exciting and Scenic Routes
Choose from several unique paths, each displaying amazing views, diverse challenges, and a thrilling climb to the top.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Machame Route
Find answers to common queries about this Kilimanjaro climbing route here.
How tough is the Machame Route?
The Machame Route on Kilimanjaro is known for its moderate difficulty. It features steep, rocky paths and the Barranco Wall climb.
With good fitness, proper preparation, and a capable guide, many climbers successfully tackle this route. Remember, handling altitude is crucial, so acclimatizing well is key to overcoming the route's challenges.
What is the distance of the Machame Route, and how long does it take?
The Machame Route covers 62 km or 37 miles. While the shortest climb is 6 days, spending 7 or 8 days on the route helps increase your chances of reaching the summit, allowing more time for acclimatization and rest.
What is the summit success rate for the Machame Route?
The Machame Route has a high success rate, with about 85% success for 7-day climbs and 73% for 6-day climbs. Extending your trek increases success rates significantly due to better acclimatization.
What does the scenery look like on the Machame Route?
This route offers diverse landscapes, starting in a rainforest and moving through wild grasslands into alpine zones and finally glacial areas. Highlights include the Shira Plateau, Barranco, and Lava Tower, each offering unique and stunning views.
When is the best time to trek the Machame Route?
The best months to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route are July through September when the weather is stable and dry. The mountain is climbable year-round, but it’s best to avoid the rainy season in April and May.
What should I pack for the Machame Route?
Essential items for the Machame Route include waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a headlamp, sunglasses, personal medications, a reusable water bottle, and head protection like a cap or beanie. Some gear may be provided by your trekking company, but these essentials are crucial for your climb.
Kilimanjaro Travel Guide For Every Climber
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Great experience with Kilimanjaro Vikings, amazing flexibility and professionality
Me and my girlfriend wanted to combine climbing Kilimanjaro with the Migration Safari. I contacted few different companies to have an idea of what possibilities i could chose from, Charlie was very fast responding and he took the time to answer all my questions and clarify all my doubts.
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Amazing adventure, everything was organized perfectly, from airport pickoff to drop off. Communication before and after was 10/10, guides, cook and porters beyond words and expectations. Highly recommended
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We did a 5 day safari trip and a 5 day cultural tribal tour. The Safari was great, we saw every animal we wanted to see and the itinerary was well planned. The cultural and tribal tour was awesome! It’s an experience I would recommend to everyone! We got to know the local villages and different activities with the tribes!
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Unforgettable Kilimanjaro Climb & 5 day Safari
We combined a 7-day Kilimanjaro Climb with a 5-day camping safari afterwards. Charlie answered all our questions fast and made a very reasonable offer. The organization was all over very good.Our guides on Kilimanjaro Michael and Protas are the very best! Caring, motivating, and just great people! Also, our cook Thomas and the porters were just amazing and so nice. The food was fantastic and fresh every day. We couldn’t have a better Kilimanjaro experience 🙂
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8 days Kilimanjaro Lemosho route
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