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Machame Route on Kilimanjaro: Most Popular Kilimanjaro Path
Why Choose the Machame Route?
The Machame Route is the most popular way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro — often referred to as the “Whiskey Route” because it’s tougher than the Marangu route (nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route”).It offers an excellent mix of scenery, acclimatization, and challenge — ideal for trekkers seeking an adventurous climb with a high chance of success.Each route has its pros and cons—see our Kilimanjaro Route Comparison to choose the best fit.
Machame Route Overview
Machame Route Days and Elevation Profile
7-Day Machame Route Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Altitude: 1,800 m to 2,835 m
- Time: 5–6 hrs
- Rainforest zone; trail can be muddy
- Altitude: 2,835 m to 3,750 m
- Time: 5 hrs
- Enter moorland zone with stunning views
- Altitude gain: up to 4,630 m, then sleep at 3,960 m
- Time: 6–7 hrs
- Acclimatization day with dramatic scenery
- Altitude: 3,960 m to 4,035 m
- Time: 4–5 hrs
- Scramble the famous Barranco Wall
- Altitude: 4,035 m to 4,673 m
- Time: 3–4 hrs
- Alpine desert zone, prepare for summit
- Altitude: 4,673 m to 5,895 m, then descend to 3,100 m
- Time: 12–14 hrs
- Summit at sunrise, long descent
- Altitude: 3,100 m to 1,640 m
- Time: 3 hrs
- Finish your trek with certificate ceremony
Difficulty, Acclimatization & Fitness Level
- Steeper and more demanding than Marangu route
- Altitude gain is faster than Lemosho but manageable
- Best for hikers in good shape — no technical climbing required
Best Time to Climb the Machame Route
- January–March: Clear skies, mild weather
- June–October: Dry season, most popular
- Avoid April–May and November due to rain
What Makes Machame Special?
- Iconic Barranco Wall challenge
- Excellent views of Kibo and Mount Meru
- Shared trail with Lemosho Route from Shira Route onwards
- Wide ecological diversity — rainforest to arctic zone
Is the Machame Route Right for You?
- You’re physically fit and want a moderately challenging trek
- You love scenic variety
- You want a 7-day climb with strong summit odds
Climb Kilimanjaro via Machame with Kili Quests
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