Machame Route (7 Days) – The “Whiskey” Route

Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m Distance: 11 km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rainforest After registering at Machame Gate, you will start your trek through lush rainforests. The path is well-maintained, but expect some steep sections. Arrive at Machame Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Moorland The path steepens as you leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone. You will be rewarded with stunning views of Kibo Peak as you reach Shira Camp, situated on a plateau.

Elevation: 3,840m to 4,630m (Lava Tower), descend to 3,976m Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Semi-desert This day helps with acclimatization as you ascend to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. The descent is beneficial for acclimatization, and the views of the Barranco Wall are a highlight.

Elevation: 3,976m to 3,995m Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Climb the Barranco Wall, a 257-meter rock face, which looks more intimidating than it is. After the climb, you descend into the Karanga Valley, and the trail flattens out as you approach Karanga Camp.

Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m Distance: 4 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert A short but steep hike to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Rest early, as the summit push begins at midnight.

Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (summit), descend to 3,100m Distance: 17 km (up and down) Hiking Time: 10-14 hours Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest Begin your summit attempt around midnight, with a challenging ascent to Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.

Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rainforest A gentle descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your certificate. Drive back to Moshi/Arusha.