MACHAME ROUTE 9 DAYS

MARANGU ROUTE

Machame Route (9 Days)
Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the �Whiskey Route, � is the second most popular trail to reach the summit following Marangu. This challenging path begins with winding, slippery tracks that meander through a breathtaking forest. By the second day, hikers encounter the Shira and Lemosho routes at Shira Camp. During the remaining climb, throughout the lengthy journey, climbers experience both ascents and descents each day, which proves beneficial for acclimatization. With its guiding principle �climb high, sleep low� This route has a high success rate.
9 Day Machame Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival & Briefing
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport located at 894 meters above sea level, you will be promptly transferred to your accommodation in either Arusha or Moshi. Here, your experienced guide from Reveal Kilimanjaro Tours will meet you to conduct a comprehensive briefing and equipment check. This meeting also serves as an excellent opportunity to acquaint yourself with fellow travelers if you are part of a group booking.
As you prepare your belongings for the morning departure, it�s crucial to ensure that your bag adheres to the specified weight limit of 15 kg, as it will be weighed again in the morning for verification. Any items of clothing or personal belongings not necessary for the trek can be conveniently stored at your lodge.
While the tour provides full board, you might consider bringing along some of your favorite snacks for added comfort and convenience during the journey.
DAY 2: Trekking Starts From the Machame Route
You will be privately transferred from your hotel to Machame Gate, 1840 m, marking the beginning of your climb. Following a delicious breakfast, we�ll head to Machame Gate, where you�ll complete the necessary paperwork and secure your climbing permit. Here, you�ll meet your experienced climbing crew, and together, we�ll begin the ascent. Throughout the journey, your guide will provide valuable insights about daily weather, trail details, and the rich wildlife surrounding you. Feel free to ask your guide about any interesting features along the route. The day concludes at Machame Camp 2980m, where you�ll enjoy your first expedition meal.
� approx. 1150hm
� approx. 5-6h
� Machame Camp (2980m a.s.l.)
� Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 3: Ascent to Shira Plateau

Today is a leisurely acclimatization day, allowing us to take it easy. Our hiking adventure will take us through various terrains, including streams, a river gorge, and moorlands. We�ll set up camp at a slightly higher elevation on the Shira Plateau 3840 meters, granting us a breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Meru, 4568 meters, and the shining ice fields of Kilimanjaro, 5895 meters. In the afternoon, an optional hike is available, offering the chance to revel in the expansive landscapes and marvel at the majestic lobelias flourishing at this altitude. For the night, we�ll be staying at Shira Camp, which affords a magnificent vantage point of the Kibo Peak. The camp is surrounded by vast grasslands and scattered bushes, providing shelter against the cold winds. When darkness falls, the sky becomes a canvas adorned with thousands of stars, including the renowned Southern Cross constellation. In the distance, the haunting cries of jackals add to the ambiance. The following morning, keep your eyes peeled for the impressive presence of buffalos and elands, as they grace the surroundings.
� approx. 850hm
� approx. 4h
� Two-person tent
� (3840m a.s.l.)
� Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 4: The Southern Circuit

Today, our journey will take us to an impressive height of 4640 meters, followed by a descent to our campsite. Along the way, we will encounter Lava Tower, a fascinating landmark that offers the opportunity for a thrilling climb. This region serves as your initial introduction to the alpine zone, characterized by rugged terrain and resilient vegetation such as hardy grass and lichens. As you ascend through the moorlands, you will transition into the alpine desert zone.
Our overnight stay awaits us at Barranco Camp 3950 meters, nestled within a picturesque valley that provides breathtaking vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. From this vantage point, you will also be treated to panoramic views of the Heim Glacier and the southern slope of Kibo, not to mention the awe-inspiring Barranco Wall.
o approx. 850hm
o approx. 750hm
o approx. 5-6h
o Two-person tent
o (3950m a.s.l.)
o Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 5: Hike to The Karanga Valley

As we ascend the steep slope, our pace quickens, rewarding us with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. At first, we believe we have reached the summit of the wall, only to discover upon arrival that it was not the summit after all. Nonetheless, undiscouraged by this setback, we press on. After all, it�s the start of a new day, and our spirits are high, filled with enthusiasm and energy. The breathtaking beauty of the landscape enhances our journey towards the pinnacle of 4250m, which we successfully reach in just under two hours from the camp. At the summit, the grandeur of Heim Glacier looms above us.
After a brief relief, we commence our descent into a desert terrain leading to Karanga Valley 3950m, only to witness the recovery of vegetation, providing an outstanding difference. Progressing swiftly, we arrive at the valley floor, where running water becomes scarce until we reach Kibo Peak. Here lies the final challenge of the day�a steep, rocky wall that we conquer with determination. In a mere twenty minutes, we arrive at Karanga camp, where we will spend the night. Situated beneath the Heim, Kersten, and Decken glaciers, it offers a serene setting.
o approx. 400hm
o approx. 4h
o Two-person tent
o (3950m a.s.l.)T
o Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
TREK DAY 6: Trekking to Barafu Camp

Following a rejuvenating night�s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we embark on our journey towards Barafu camp, situated at an altitude of 4600m. The ascent leads us to barren scree slopes devoid of any signs of vegetation, creating a challenging and tough trek exacerbated by the high altitude.
Upon reaching the camp, we replenish our energy with nourishing meals and dedicate the afternoon to resting and readying ourselves for the upcoming Summit Day. Maintaining proper hydration and warmth remains crucial. From this vantage point, we are able to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mawenzi Peak 5149 m.
o approx. 750hm Ascend
o approx. 50hm Descend
o approx. 4-5h
o Two-person tent
o (4600m a.s.l.)
o Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 7: Summit phase Kilimanjaro, 5895 m

At the stroke of midnight, you ascend the 1100 meters to Stella Point, at 5730 meters. Then, you continue to the top edge of the caldera, Uhuru Peak, at 5895 meters. This journey holds the promise of remarkable accomplishments and the fulfillment of your goals. Over the course of six to eight hours, as you hike from the camp, your perspective on life will crystallize when you stand atop the world�s highest free-standing mountain.
The duration of your stay at the summit, taking breathtaking photographs and reflecting upon your expedition, will be determined by the weather conditions prevailing over Africa�s pinnacle.
The descent from the summit will entail roughly three hours of hiking, with a brief pause for lunch near Barafu camp. Afterward, continue your expedition and make your way to Mweka Camp, where you shall spend your final night on Kilimanjaro, commemorating your triumph!
At Mweka Camp, nestled approximately 3,000 meters below the conquered summit, you will spend the last night on the awe-inspiring volcano, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. This will be a time to celebrate your victory, basking in the immense satisfaction it brings.
o approx 1300hm Ascend
o approx 2050hm Descend
o approx. 10-12h
o Two-person tent
o (3861m a.s.l.)
o Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Day 8: Descend to Mweka Gate

We embark on a serene trek that guides us through the lush rainforest until we reach Mweka Gate 1790 m. At this point, we conclude the necessary park formalities and proudly obtain certificates that can be displayed as a symbol of achievement. The final descent to the gate is expected to take around 3-4 hours. Afterward, we reunite with our vehicles and head back to the hotel, where you can indulge in a refreshing shower and rejoice with invigorating cold beverages. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at your chosen accommodation.
o approx 2070hm
o approx. 5-6h
o Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Day 9: Departure & Follow-up Program

On this day, you�ll receive a convenient pickup service from your lodging, transporting you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). From there, you can embark on your flight, or if you�ve opted for an extended stay in Tanzania with a thrilling wildlife safari, you can commence the next leg of your adventure.
The climb cost includes
o Government taxes
o Fair wages for the Mountain Crew as stipulated by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
o 4-season mountain tents
o 18% VAT on tour fees & services
o Park entry fees
o Camping fees
o Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate
o 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi/Arusha (FB) Full Board
o Private transport from the airport (JRO) to your accommodation in Arusha/Moshi and back
o Double-layered sleeping mats 4 inches (10cm) thick
o Friendly and professional mountain guides, cookers, and porters
o 3 meals daily during the trek
o Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
o Hot water for washing
o Portable oxygen tank-oxy-meter emergency first aid
o Portable flush toilet tent
o Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate!
The climb cost excludes
o Drinks at your hotel before and after
o Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (consider per person per day, to be paid in US Dollars or Euros)
o Travel insurance