Machame Route VIP

The Scenic & Adventurous Path

Quick Facts

Overview

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is Kilimanjaro’s most popular trail. It combines diverse scenery, excellent acclimatization, and a challenging but rewarding trek. This 7-day VIP itinerary maximizes comfort, support, and summit success.

Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Transfer to Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to the Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha. Relax with views of Mount Meru, enjoy hotel amenities, and prepare for your trek with a detailed guide briefing.
Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha

Day 2: Acclimatization Day – Arusha National Park

Spend the day exploring Arusha National Park, with scenic hikes through forests, lakes, and volcanic craters. Wildlife spotting and a picnic lunch enhance acclimatization. Return to Gran Melia for dinner, climb briefing, and final gear checks.
Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha

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

Begin trekking at Machame Gate, ascending through dense rainforest filled with unique flora and wildlife. A steady hike of 10–12 km (5–7 hours) leads to Machame Camp.
Accommodation: Machame Camp

Day 4: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,800m)

Leave the rainforest behind and enter heathland and moorland zones. Enjoy panoramic views as you cross ridges and volcanic terrain on a 5–6 hour trek.
Accommodation: Shira Camp

Day 5: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,900m) via Lava Tower (4,600m)

Trek 6–7 hours through alpine desert, climbing up to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. The “climb high, sleep low” principle helps adapt to altitude.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,930m)

Start with an exciting scramble over the Great Barranco Wall, then follow a scenic trail to Karanga Valley. Shorter trekking day of 4–5 hours to optimize acclimatization.
Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

A 3–4 hour trek leads to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. Prepare gear, rest, and enjoy an early dinner before the midnight ascent.
Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Day 8: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Summit day begins around midnight. After a strenuous 6–7 hour climb, reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Descend to Barafu for rest and continue down to Mweka Camp.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha

Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (3–4 hours). Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Gran Melia Hotel for relaxation and celebration.
Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha

What’s Included

  • All transfers as per the itinerary and government expenses
  • Two nights’ accommodation at Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha
  • All Kilimanjaro National Park fees
  • Pre-hiking acclimatization day at Arusha National Park
  • Extra day on the mountain for proper acclimatization and well-being
  • Trained guides in altitude physiology and Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
  • Top-quality food for the entire climb (three meals daily)
  • Safety equipment including oxygen tank and portable altitude chamber (PAC)
  • High-quality camping equipment including mountain tents and private bathroom facilities
  • Safety communication (satellite phones and mobile phones)
  • Flying Doctors evacuation coverage within the region
  • Day room on the final day at Gran Melia Hotel
  • Sleeping bags, mattresses, and tents
  • Summit certificate

What’s Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Travelers’ insurance
  • Communication charges or other personal items
  • Meals or transfers not included in the itinerary
  • Meals at the hotel (outside specified itinerary)
  • Optional activities or additional transfers
  • Beverages, laundry, personal gear or clothing rental
  • Tipping for guides, porters, and support staff
  • Any charges from an early descent (additional hotels, transfers, etc.)
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