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Machame Route
The 7-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route offers an exhilarating trekking experience, providing one of the most scenic and less-traveled paths to the roof of Africa. Starting from the western side of Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho route offers a gradual ascent through diverse ecosystems—from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, and finally, to the icy summit of Uhuru Peak.
This 7-day itinerary allows for a slower pace, giving climbers better opportunities for acclimatization and higher chances of a successful summit. With breathtaking views along the way and fewer crowds than other routes, trekkers will be immersed in the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s landscape. Guided by expert teams, the journey ensures an unforgettable experience while maintaining comfort and safety at every stage of the climb.
- Machame Route
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Parks
Itinerary
Cost
Additional Info
Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our ground team will greet you. After introductions, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi for an evening of rest.
Day 1: Transfer to Machame Gate + Trek to Machame Camp
After an early wake-up and breakfast, we embark on a 3-hour transfer to Machame Gate (1,800 m). The trek begins through dense montane forest, where 96% of Kilimanjaro’s water originates. On sunny days, this section is lush and vibrant, though it can become muddy after rain. We’ll enjoy lunch at Halfway Clearing before continuing our ascent, transitioning to giant heather near Machame Camp (3,000 m). Weather permitting, we may catch our first glimpse of Kibo’s glaciated dome. [6-8 hours walking]
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp
This day involves a shorter trek, starting with a steep climb to Picnic Rock, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of Kibo and the Shira Plateau. After a rest, we continue on a less steep trail to Shira Plateau, camping near Shira Camp (3,840 m). This area offers breathtaking views, including the volcanic cone of Kibo and the rock formations of the Shira Plateau, with Mt. Meru floating on the clouds. [4-6 hours walking]
Day 3: Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
We’ll have a gentle ascent with panoramic views, walking on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch at Lava Tower (4,600 m), we descend to the Great Barranco Valley (3,900 m), a sheltered area with towering cliffs and expansive views. [5-7 hours walking]
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
We begin with a steep climb up the Barranco Wall, then follow an undulating trail on Kibo’s southeastern flank, offering superb vistas of the Southern Icefields. We’ll have lunch at Karanga (4,000 m), the last water point before the summit. Afterward, we continue along an easy path of compacted scree to Barafu Camp (4,600 m). [4-5 hours walking]
Day 5: Uhuru Peak Summit + Descend to Millennium/Mweka Camp
Our ascent begins around 1 a.m., navigating the steep climb over loose volcanic scree. We’ll reach Stella Point (5,735 m) in about five to six hours, where we can pause to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Climbers feeling strong can make the 2-hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m), passing stunning glaciers. Afterward, we descend to Barafu and continue to Millennium Camp (3,800 m). [11-15 hours walking]
Day 6: Descend from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate + Transfer Back to Hotel
We’ll descend through tropical forest alive with birdsong and lush undergrowth to Mweka National Park gate (1,650 m), where we’ll sign out. Afterward, we’ll continue through coffee and banana farms to Mweka village, where our vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel for a refreshing shower, cold drink, and swim! [4-6 hours walking]
Tour Information
Machame Route Overview
The Machame Route, known as the Whiskey Route, is the most popular choice for climbing Kilimanjaro. Compared to the Marangu Route, it features longer days and steeper walks, making it a more challenging option suited for climbers with some hiking or backpacking experience.
The trek begins in the south and heads east, traversing beneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice fields before reaching the summit. While the minimum duration is six days, seven days is recommended for a more comfortable experience.
The route is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes but can experience heavy foot traffic, which can diminish its charm.
For those with only six days, the Machame Route offers an excellent acclimatization profile, reaching significant altitudes on day three, which helps the body adapt to altitude. Climbers should be in good physical condition to handle the challenging elevation gains and losses.
The six-day variation is particularly demanding, with day four requiring a long hike from Barranco to Barafu, followed by a tough summit push on day five, requiring 19-24 hours of rigorous walking at high elevations with minimal rest.
Cost
Price Per Person in US Dollars
$2,200 per person for solo trekkers
$2,100 per person for two people trekking together
$2,000 per person for three people trekking together
$1,900 per person for four people trekking together
$1,800 per person for five people trekking together
$1,700 per person for six or more people trekking together
Additional Info
What’s Included
Transport to and from the park gate, as well as airport transfers
Pre- and post-climb accommodation (bed and breakfast) in Moshi
Park, camping, and rescue fees
Mountain tent and mattress
Professional English-speaking guide(s), porters, and chef
Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
Water, tea, and coffee with meals
What’s Not Included
Flights
Lunch and dinner in Moshi
Travel insurance
Visa and passport fees
Increases in park fees, where applicable
Personal equipment
Sleeping bag
Tips for guide(s), porters, and cook
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages