The Machame Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its stunning views, diverse landscapes, and high success rate. It is often referred to as the “Whiskey Route” due to its more challenging nature compared to the Marangu route, which is why it’s a favorite among experienced trekkers and those looking for a rewarding climb.
The Machame Route is approximately 62 kilometers (39 miles) long, and it usually takes around 6 to 7 days to complete. This gives climbers ample time for proper acclimatization, ensuring a higher chance of reaching the summit without complications. Each day on the route offers different terrain, from lush rainforest to the barren alpine desert, providing a varied and captivating experience for trekkers.
Many climbers prefer the Machame Route because it offers breathtaking views of the mountain from various perspectives. The route allows trekkers to experience the full range of Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems, from dense rainforests to the alpine desert. Its higher altitude camps give trekkers a better chance for acclimatization, which is key to preventing altitude sickness and ensuring a successful summit.
Additionally, this route is popular because of its diverse scenery, including the beautiful Barranco Wall, Shira Plateau, and the Lava Tower. The variety in landscapes keeps the trek interesting and offers excellent photo opportunities, making it a favorite for those looking to capture the beauty of Kilimanjaro.
The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route is during the dry seasons, which are typically from January to March and June to October. These months offer clear skies and better visibility, which is crucial for the scenic views this route offers. Climbing during the rainy seasons, which are from April to May and November to December, can be more challenging due to wet conditions, but some climbers choose these months for fewer crowds and lower prices.
The Machame Route is considered moderately challenging, with steeper sections and higher altitudes compared to other routes. However, with proper preparation and guidance, it is accessible to most trekkers in good physical condition.
Along the Machame Route, trekkers stay in camping areas. The camps are well-equipped with toilets, dining tents, and sleeping arrangements, though they can be basic compared to hotel accommodations.
While previous mountaineering experience is not required, a good level of fitness and a willingness to endure challenging terrain will greatly help you on this route.
Most of the essential climbing gear, such as tents and cooking equipment, is provided by the trekking company. However, you will need to bring personal items such as appropriate clothing, hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and other personal gear.
The Machame Route takes trekkers through various altitudes, ranging from 1,800 meters at the start to 5,895 meters at the summit. The gradual ascent allows for better acclimatization, which is key to avoiding altitude sickness.
We do no compromise on safety and quality, so our prices are not the cheapest. However, they are also not unreasonably high like some other companies. We take a lot of pride in the value for money we provide to each and every client. The per person prices below are based on how many people are booking the trek together.