7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Machame Route

Machame route is the most popular path. It is the route of choice for many people because it provides impressive views and a variety of habitats. About 50% of all climbers, especially the seasoned climbers, prefer the Machame route for summiting Kilimanjaro.

Among the most popular routes, Machame is preferred by the majority of the tourists became of the impressive views all around and variety of habitats. Most seasoned climbers which make up 50% of all the climbers choose this route.

The Machame route is nicknamed “The Whiskey Route” which is in contrast to the nickname of Marangu Route “Coca-Cola route.” It is so because Machame is a relatively difficult route to climb, and as opposed to Marangu where there is gradual incline and hut accommodations, there is a lack of such facilities in Machame and trekkers have to sleep in tents.

The climbing journey in Machame Route takes about six days and five nights, however seven days and six nights is set aside for better acclimatization purposes. The trek begins at Machame Gate which is located in the southern base of the mountain within a dense lush rainforest. The route heads toward the Shira Plateau, before circling along the southern circuit halfway around the mountain, exposing the climber to great views from all angles. The approach to the summit is made from the east, and the descent follows the Mweka trail.

When measured from gate to gate, Machame Route is approximately 62 km in length. This route is recommended for people with some trekking experience and who are physically fit. The table below presents the variation of the entire 7 day Machame climb from starting to finish points including altitude, distance, and total hiking time. This is considered the ideal Machame route variation