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.
Day 1:– Arrival in Moshi
Day 2:– Machame Gate to Machame Camp
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)
Day 3:– Machame Camp to Shira Camp
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)
Day 4:– Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
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)
Day 5:– Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
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.
Day 6:– Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak & Mweka Camp
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.
Day 7:– Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Return to Moshi
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)
Day 8:– Departure
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
Voices of the Journey: Gorilla African Tours Reviews
Dale C2024-12-17Verified Gorrile Africain Tours We contacted Gorille Africain Tours about a safari to Tanzania in October. After a few emails we had a phone conversation with one of their representatives that we felt was very benificial.Gorille put a perfect 10 day tour of Tanzania, Zanzibar and Mafia Island together for us Our Guide Albert picked us up at the airport in Kilimanjaro and we toured Tarangire,Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater all very unique from each other National parks.Be prepared for rough roads ( called an African Massage). We found standing up in the Landcruiser and holding on to the handrails the most comfortable way to ride and view wildlife. A good pair of binoculars is a must. We went in December which is the slow season a sometimes we were the only guests at some of the lodges. This meant less traffic and uncrowded roads and if we did get rain it didnt last for long. The Landcruiser can hold 7 passengers but we felt 2 or 4 is the best for viewing and communication. Our guide Albert was amazing, competent, knowledgeable and fun to be with. We flew to Zanzibar for our last 3 days, lots of history of the Spice trades and excellent museum on the history of the slave trade. We stayed one night in Stone town and toured and then were driven to the NE side for 2 nights. Long beaches, amazing sand. Beach shoes are a must as the shallow pool between the beach and the reef is full of urchins. No swimming but wading in the incredible warm water There are Snorkel and Scuba trips available right from the beach.. We flew to a remote island called Mafia one day and after a few hours of searching ( no guarantees) we found a pod of 6 Whale Sharks and were able to snorkel amongst them for over an hour,an amazing experience! We can’t thank Goriile enough for arranging such an amazing trip for us and we wouldn’t have changed a thing.We travelled to Africa to find adventure and we found it and a whole lot more! sally2024-12-15Verified Legends Safari. We went into the Kruger with Legends Safari and we had so many amazing sightings all up close. Within 2 hours we had seen the Big 5. Our guide Bradley was outstanding....highly recommend Kdot Innocent2024-12-12Verified Gorilla Trekking Experience On Sept 28 I went gorilla trekking with my friend, and it was an incredible experience! Seeing gorillas in their natural habitat was absolutely breathtaking. The team from Gorille Africain Tours went above and beyond to make our trip unforgettable. Everything was well-organized, and our driver was fantastic so friendly and professional. I’d highly recommend them to anyone planning a gorilla trekking adventure!
Embark on a journey with Gorille Africain Tours to discover the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes of Africa.
Our expertly curated tours and safaris ensure you experience the essence of each destination, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Africa offers it all, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.