Machame Route, also known as the Whisky Route, is one of the most scenic and therefore popular routes on the mountain. It offers adventurous climbers a stunning outlook. It can be done over a longer period and the incline is more manageable, therefore it has a much higher success rate of the summit.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where a friendly Safari Expert representative will warmly welcome you. From there, you will transfer to your accommodation at Lindrin Lodge in Moshi. Relax and enjoy amenities like the swimming pool and Wi-Fi. In the evening, attend a briefing with experienced managers to help you prepare for your climb. Overnight stay includes breakfast.
Start your journey with a 4-5 hour drive through coffee plantations and charming villages to the Nale Moru Gate of Kilimanjaro National Park. From there, you’ll begin a scenic hike through wooded terrain with winding trails, as your guide shares information about the local flora and fauna. After hiking for 3-4 hours and gaining 638m in elevation, you’ll arrive at Simba Camp near the first cave. Here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the plains of Kenya and experience cooler temperatures at this altitude.
After breakfast, continue your steady ascent along a beautiful moorland path. This day’s hike takes about 5-6 hours, with an elevation gain of 852m. Along the way, enjoy incredible views of Kibo and glimpses of the ice fields on the eastern crater rim. You’ll reach Second Cave Camp, surrounded by thinning moorland shrubs, where the temperatures will start to drop further.
The day begins with breakfast, followed by a steady hike across the moorland. As you approach the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking. This shorter hike takes about 2-3 hours, with an elevation gain of 188m. You’ll arrive at Kikelewa Camp, an ideal spot to rest and prepare for the next stage of your climb. Be sure to inform your guide if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness.
This day involves a short but steeper climb, offering rewarding views as you leave the vegetation behind. Mawenzi Tarn, your next camp, is dramatically situated in a cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. You’ll have the afternoon free to rest or explore the surrounding area to help with acclimatization. If your itinerary includes an additional day, you’ll spend two nights here, with an acclimatization hike around Mawenzi.
Today, you’ll cross the desolate and lunar-like Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain is vast and otherworldly. Upon reaching Kibo Hut at the base of the Kibo crater wall, you’ll have time to rest and prepare for the challenging summit attempt that awaits you later in the night.
The summit attempt begins early, between midnight and 2 AM. This is the most demanding and rewarding part of the trek. You’ll ascend through scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise if you arrive early enough. From Stella Point, the trail continues for about an hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895m. After celebrating your achievement, capturing photos, and taking in the views, you’ll descend back to Kibo Huts for lunch and a brief rest. The journey continues to Horombo Huts, where you’ll spend your last night on the mountain. Gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended for the loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain.
After breakfast, join your crew for a farewell ceremony before descending to Marangu Gate. The hike takes 6-7 hours, with a stop at Mandara Huts for lunch. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates. The descent offers warmer, wetter, and muddier conditions, so gaiters and poles will be helpful. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a hot shower, dinner, and a well-deserved rest as you celebrate your incredible accomplishment.
Start your final day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Check out by 11:00 AM, though late check-out options may be available for an additional charge. Reflect on your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure as you prepare for your journey home.
$670/p
Moshi, Kilimanjaro
+255 782 866 398
+255 782 866 398
info@safariexperttanzania.com
Experienced & Trustworthy Local Tour Operator Based In Tanzania. Mt Kilimanjaro & Safari Experts. Many More Memorable Activities in Tanzania & Zanzibar.