The Machame Route is one of the most picturesque and varied trails leading to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the opportunity to naturally acclimatize, this route attracts trekkers seeking a more challenging yet profoundly rewarding experience. Let's delve into this iconic path to the Roof of Africa.
Overview of the Machame Route
The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is a popular choice for those seeking a more demanding trek.
Core Information:
Distance: 62 kilometers (38 miles)
Elevation gain: 5,380 to 19,341 feet (1,639 to 5,895 meters)
Duration: 6 or 7 days
Acclimatization: Good
Terrain: Varied, including rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and artic
Challenge: Moderate to difficult
Features:
Challenging and Diverse Trek
Good Acclimatization
Excellent Scenery
Favorable Summit Success Rate
Considerations:
Popular Route
Challenging Terrain
Potential Altitude Effects
How long does it take to climb the Machame Route?
The Machame Route offers trekkers a challenging yet enriching journey that typically takes six to seven days. This extended duration allows for proper acclimatization and ensures that trekkers can savor every aspect of the diverse landscapes Kilimanjaro has to offer.
How physically demanding is the Machame Route?
Physical fitness is crucial for success on the Machame Route. While you don't need to be a professional athlete, a good level of overall fitness is necessary. Regular cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and hiking practice on uneven terrain will help build the necessary endurance and strength. The route is filled with steep ascents and descents, demanding excellent leg strength and cardiovascular capacity.
What is the summit success rate for the Machame Route?
With its well-designed acclimatization schedule, the Machame Route boasts a favorable summit success rate. Approximately 85% of trekkers who choose this route reach the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. The gradual ascent, allowing the body to adapt to the altitude, significantly contributes to this impressive success rate.
How much time is required for acclimatization on the Machame Route?
The Machame Route's ascent profile is one of its defining features. Trekkers spend several days gaining elevation gradually, giving their bodies ample time to acclimatize to the decreasing oxygen levels. This approach helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness and enhances the overall experience.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Machame Route?
The Machame Route offers several advantages. It is well-suited for those who prefer a more challenging and diverse climb. Its varied landscapes make for captivating scenery and exceptional photo opportunities. Trekkers on this route have the chance to acclimatize, increasing their chances of a successful summit gradually.
With Machame Route being a crowd favorite, its popularity can be seen as a disadvantage. Higher numbers of trekkers can be encountered along the path, especially during peak seasons. The challenging terrain may not be suitable for beginners, and a good level of physical fitness is necessary. Trekkers should also be prepared for the potential effects of altitude sickness.
What camps are on the Machame Route?
Machame Camp
Shira Camp 1
Shira Camp 2
Barranco Camp
Karanga Camp
Barafu Camp
Mweka Camp
Is there Hut accommodation on the Machame Route?
No, Machame Route involves tent camping.
What kind of scenic views can you expect on the Machame Route?
The Machame Route boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery on Kilimanjaro. Trekkers can expect to witness stunning vistas of the Shira Plateau, the Lava Tower, and the Western Breach. The diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to the desolation of the alpine desert, provide a constant feast for the eyes, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself.
Our Opinion
The Machame Route is a fantastic choice for those seeking an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Its unique advantages, such as gradual acclimatization and remarkable scenery, make it an enticing option for adventurous souls. Just be prepared for the challenges and the company of fellow trekkers as you embark on this awe-inspiring adventure.
Seven Day Sample Itinerary
DAY 1
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
The drive from Arusha to the Machame Gate takes about 2 hours, The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. As we leave the park gate, we walk through the dense rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge until we reach the Machame Camp
Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
Distance: 11 km/7 miles,
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
DAY 2
Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp
We leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path up to a steep, rocky ridge. On the Shira Plateau, we pass through heather and open moorlands, then cross a large river gorge to Shira 2 Camp.
Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
DAY 3 Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 3 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall, we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section of Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 6
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent but short breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft Distance: 5 km/3 miles Hiking Time: 7-8 hours Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft Distance: 12 km/7 miles Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Rain Forest
DAY 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Gate to drive us back to the hotel.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft Distance: 10 km/6 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Comments