Itinerary Overview

The Machame Route, also called the “Whiskey Route,” is famous for its dramatic scenery and excellent acclimatization profile. Over 7 days, you’ll cross diverse ecosystems—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating in an unforgettable sunrise at Africa’s highest point, Uhuru Peak.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800 m) – Machame Camp (3,000 m)

After breakfast and a drive to Machame Gate, complete registration formalities. Begin your trek through lush montane rainforest, where you’ll see giant ferns, moss-covered trees, and possibly black-and-white colobus monkeys. Arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon.

• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

• Distance: ~11 km

• Habitat: Rainforest

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,840 m)

Today’s trail climbs steeply through heather and moorland. Enjoy stunning views back toward Mount Meru and up to the summit glaciers. Arrive at Shira Camp on a rocky plateau.

• Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

• Distance: ~5 km

• Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630 m) – Barranco Camp (3,950 m)

Ascend gradually to the Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp beneath the impressive Barranco Wall. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust to higher altitudes.

• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

Begin the day by scaling the Barranco Wall—a thrilling scramble with rewarding views. Continue along ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp. Afternoon rest and acclimatization.

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~5 km

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640 m)

Climb steadily to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. Arrive early to eat, hydrate, and rest. Prepare your gear and get some sleep before the midnight departure.

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~4 km

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

Around midnight, start your final ascent by headlamp. Climb slowly to Stella Point (5,739 m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu for brunch and rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.

• Hiking Time: 12–15 hours total

• Distance: ~19 km

• Habitat: Arctic summit zone and alpine desert

Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi/Arusha

Continue your descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificates and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha, where a hot shower and comfortable bed await.

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

• Habitat: Rainforest