machame trekking safari
The Machame route, often referred to as the “Whisky Route,” is known for being a bit challenging but highly rewarding. This route involves camping accommodations and can take between 6 or 7 days, including a climatic stop at Barranco Camp.
Day 1: Start from Arusha or Moshi towns and drive to the Machame Gate at an altitude of 1700 meters. After registration, begin trekking through the rainforest to Machame Camp. Arrive after 3-4 hours for dinner and overnight at 3800m.
Day 2: After breakfast, prepare for the second day of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Trek toward Shira Pass, through a little valley, rock ridges, and arrive at Shira Camp (3800m) after 5-7 hours for overnight.
Day 3: Continue trekking towards the Lava Tower, then head to the Arrow Glacier junction. Proceed to Barranco Camp for overnight.
Day 4: After breakfast at Barranco Camp, trek through Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp for overnight. This trek takes about 7-8 hours. Prepare for a midnight wake-up for the summit attempt.
Day 5: Wake up around 12:00 am for the summit. Reach the highest point of Africa during sunrise, passing through Stella Point (5745 meters). After reaching the summit, descend to Mweka Camp. The descent takes 4-5 hours for overnight.
Day 6: Have breakfast at Mweka Camp, then continue descending to Mweka Gate. You will be picked up and transferred back to Arusha or Moshi.
NB: Other routes on Kilimanjaro, such as Rongai, Londorosi, and Lemosho, are longer, taking 7-9 days. These routes are more recommended for older people and first-time climbers.