Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, through the stunning and scenic Machame Route. Known as the "Whiskey Route," the Machame Route offers an exhilarating and diverse climbing experience, blending challenging ascents with breathtaking landscapes. Over the course of nine days and eight nights, you'll traverse through five distinct climatic zones—from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, culminating in the arctic conditions at the summit. The Machame Route is celebrated not only for its awe-inspiring beauty but also for its higher success rate compared to other routes. The route's longer acclimatization period, combined with its gradual altitude gain, makes it a preferred choice for climbers seeking to increase their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route is during the dry seasons, from late June to October and from December to mid-March. These months offer the most stable weather conditions, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trek. With every step, you'll be guided by experienced Zayla Tours professionals who will ensure your safety, comfort, and success as you ascend. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a determined first-timer, this expedition will challenge you, inspire you, and ultimately reward you with an unforgettable sense of achievement as you stand on the roof of Africa.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Zayla Tours representative and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha. The city, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for resting and preparing for the adventure ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the vibrant markets or visit local cultural sites.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Meru House Inn
• Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
• Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge

Meal Plan: Dinner at your accommodation.

Extra Activities: Local market tour, visit to the Cultural Heritage Centre.

Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

• Altitude: 1,800m (5,905ft) to 3,000m (9,843ft)
• Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest

Your journey begins with a drive from Arusha to the Machame Gate, where you will complete registration formalities. The trek commences in the lush rainforest, where towering trees, ferns, and moss-covered paths create a surreal environment. As you ascend, you may encounter black-and-white colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The trail gradually becomes steeper, leading you to Machame Camp, your first campsite on the mountain.

Accommodation: Machame Camp (Tented Camp)

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Arusha accommodation, Lunch en route, Dinner at Machame Camp.

Extra Activities: Evening acclimatization walk around the camp.

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

• Altitude: 3,000m (9,843ft) to 3,850m (12,631ft)
• Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

Today’s hike takes you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, where the landscape opens up, revealing expansive views of the mountain and its surroundings. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you approach the Shira Plateau. Upon arrival at Shira Camp, you will be treated to magnificent vistas of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys, particularly at sunset.

Accommodation: Shira Camp (Tented Camp)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Extra Activities: Short hike to Shira Cathedral, star-gazing at night.

Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

• Altitude: 3,850m (12,631ft) to 4,600m (15,091ft) to 3,900m (12,795ft)
• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
• Habitat: Semi-Desert

This is a crucial day for acclimatization as you climb from Shira Camp to the Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. The day’s hike is long and challenging, passing through the semi-desert landscape. Reaching the Lava Tower, you’ll be at the highest point of the day, allowing your body to adapt to the altitude. After lunch at Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by towering cliffs and the famous Barranco Wall.

Accommodation: Barranco Camp (Tented Camp)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Extra Activities: Explore the base of Barranco Wall, photography of unique Senecio trees.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Altitude: 3,900m (12,795ft) to 4,035m (13,238ft)
• Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek involves the thrilling ascent of the Barranco Wall, a nearly vertical but manageable climb that offers stunning views. The route then leads to Karanga Valley, with a series of ups and downs, crossing ridges and valleys. The relatively short hike allows for additional acclimatization at Karanga Camp, where you’ll spend the night.

Accommodation: Karanga Camp (Tented Camp)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Extra Activities: Short acclimatization hikes around the camp.

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Altitude: 4,035m (13,238ft) to 4,640m (15,223ft)
• Distance: 4 km (2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

The hike to Barafu Camp is a steady climb across an alpine desert with little vegetation. The terrain is rocky and barren, with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you will rest and prepare for the summit attempt. The camp is exposed, offering sweeping views of the southern glaciers and the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp (Tented Camp)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Extra Activities: Early rest and preparation for the summit night.

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Altitude: 4,640m (15,223ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,100m (10,170ft)
• Distance: 15 km (9 miles)
• Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
• Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Summit night begins around midnight, with a steep and strenuous climb towards Stella Point on the crater rim. The trek is mentally and physically challenging, with freezing temperatures and thin air. Upon reaching Stella Point, you’ll continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After a brief celebration and photos, you’ll begin the descent to Mweka Camp, passing through the alpine desert and moorland zones.

Accommodation: Mweka Camp (Tented Camp)

Meal Plan: Light breakfast at Barafu, Summit snack, Lunch en route, Dinner at Mweka Camp.

Extra Activities: Celebrate the summit achievement, explore the unique crater area.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Altitude: 3,100m (10,170ft) to 1,640m (5,381ft)
• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest

The final leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure takes you back through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your certificates of accomplishment. After a celebration with your team, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha for a well-deserved rest. Depending on your energy levels, you may opt for a relaxing massage or simply unwind at your accommodation.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Meru House Inn
• Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
• Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Mweka Camp, Lunch en route, Dinner at Arusha accommodation.

Extra Activities: Optional massage or spa treatment in Arusha, souvenir shopping.

Day 9: Departure

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your incredible Kilimanjaro adventure. Take with you unforgettable memories and a great sense of achievement from your journey to the roof of Africa.

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Arusha accommodation.

Our pricing structure is generally calculated on a per-person sharing basis, unless otherwise indicated. Please note that the listed prices are approximate and may be subject to adjustment:

All rates depend on availability and may change without prior notice. If you prefer single accommodations, additional fees may apply. We encourage you to reach out for a customized quote or connect with our Tanzania Safari Experts to receive the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information

Included in the Itinerary:

• Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
• All accommodation as specified in the itinerary
• All meals during the trek and as mentioned in the itinerary
• Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
• Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
• All necessary trekking equipment (tents, sleeping mats, etc.)
• Certificates of accomplishment
• Drinking water throughout the trek

Excluded from the Itinerary:

• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, clothing)
• Tips for guides, porters, and cook
• Optional activities in Arusha (e.g., market tours, spa treatments)
• Any additional accommodation or meals before and after the itinerary
• Visas and vaccinations