Tanzania

MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB

"Whiskey Route"

From

$1,920 PP

Duration

7 Days

Pickup

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Best Time

1 january to 28 February

The 6-day Machame Route is an exhilarating challenge for hikers seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” for its rugged terrain, it takes you through lush rainforests, surreal alpine deserts, and dramatic ridgelines, leading to the epic Uhuru Peak (5,895m). The final midnight push to the summit rewards you with a breathtaking sunrise over Africa—a moment of pure triumph after days of determination. Are you ready for the climb of a lifetime?

Highlights

  • Epic Summit Ascent – Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa, with a breathtaking sunrise view from the top.
  • Scenic & Challenging Machame Route – Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, with dramatic ridgelines and glaciers.
  • Expert-Guided Trekking Adventure – Climb with professional guides, enjoy high-altitude camping, and experience a well-supported trek to the summit.

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Springlands Hotel in Moshi, where you’ll meet your guides for a climb briefing and gear check before resting for the night.

  • Altitude: 910m
  • Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
  • Transfer to Hotel – Overnight at Springlands Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

After breakfast, a 45-minute drive takes you to Machame Gate, where your trek begins through the lush rainforest zone. Expect occasional rain and muddy trails as you ascend to Machame Camp, where porters will set up tents and prepare a warm meal.

 

  • Altitude: 1,800m – 3,010m
  • Hiking Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: ~6 hours
  • Overnight at Machame Camp (3,010m)

Leaving the rainforest, you’ll ascend through moorland and heather zones. A steep ridge leads to the Shira Plateau, offering the first breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the Western Breach glaciers.

 

  • Altitude: 3,010m – 3,840m
  • Hiking Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: ~4-5 hours
  • Overnight at Shira Camp (3,840m)

This acclimatization day takes you into the alpine desert, with a gradual climb to Lava Tower (4,630m)—the highest point of the day. After lunch, you descend to Barranco Camp, passing through surreal glacial valleys and giant Senecio trees.

 

  • Altitude: 3,840m – 4,630m (Lava Tower) – 3,960m (Barranco Camp)
  • Hiking Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: ~7-8 hours
  • Overnight at Barranco Camp (3,960m)

The morning starts with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb offering spectacular views. The trail continues through alpine desert to Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit push.

 

  • Altitude: 3,960m – 4,640m
  • Hiking Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: ~7-8 hours
  • Overnight at Barafu Camp (4,640m)
  • Summit Night Preparation: After an early dinner, rest for a few hours before the midnight ascent.

Midnight Ascent: The most challenging part of the climb begins as you trek 6 hours to Stella Point (5,685m), where you’ll witness an unforgettable sunrise. From here, it’s another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa!

  • Altitude: 4,640m – 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) – 3,090m (Mweka Camp)
  • Hiking Distance: 17 km
  • Hiking Time: ~15+ hours

  • Overnight at Mweka Camp (3,090m)
  • Summit Celebration: After soaking in the views, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp for a well-earned sleep.

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your climbing certificates. A short transfer takes you back to Springlands Hotel, where a hot shower and celebratory lunch await.

 

  • Altitude: 3,090m – 1,650m
  • Hiking Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: ~4-5 hours
  • Overnight at Springlands Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight or participate in a safari extension.

What's Included

  • Two nights’ accommodation at Springlands Hotel in Moshi (before & after the climb)
  • Round-trip transportation from Moshi to the Machame Gate (start/finish point)
  • Professional, experienced mountain guides and support crew
  • All national park fees
  • Tents & sleeping mattresses
  • Dining equipment: cutlery, crockery, mess tent, mini camping chairs, tables, and candles
  • Rescue fees
  • Pulse oximeters & first aid kit
  • Salaries for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
  • Boiled drinking water throughout the climb
  • All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Accommodation & entry fees for guides, porters, waiter, and cook
  • Emergency oxygen supply
  • Airport transfers

What's Excluded

  • Single room supplement at Springlands Hotel (except for solo climbers)
  • Tips for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
  • Meals & drinks not specified
  • Personal climbing gear & equipment
  • Additional hotel nights beyond the two included
  • Visas & personal expenses

Important Notes

  • USD notes must be from 2006 or later.
  • Final payment must be completed at least 45 days to travel
  • Donations of used mountain gear for the Mt. Kilimanjaro Porters Society (MKPS) are greatly appreciated.

Please use the form below for bookings or questions

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