The Machame Route (also called the Whiskey route) is extremely popular among guides and climbers alike for several reasons. For one, Machame is among the most scenic routes to Climb Kilimanjaro. The route traverses the Southern and Western faces of the mountain and passes through five climatic zones, including spectacular cloud forests in the lower ranges. It also offers an excellent acclimatization opportunity, as it naturally follows the mountaineer’s caveat of walking high and sleeping low. This is perhaps one of the reasons for the relatively high success rate for this route, especially when compared to the Marangu route (also called the Coca-Cola trail).
Compared to Marangu, you need one or two days more on the Machame Route, which again improves the acclimatization and success rate on this route. You also have the option of splitting the pre-summit day climb, which means you are better rested for the all-important summit push. And the cherry on your summit dessert is that you will take a different path on your way down than the one on which you ascend, enabling you to savour more of Kilimanjaro. To its fault, Machame is sometimes too popular for its virtues, which means it is usually a bit more crowded than other routes. Additionally, it is usually more expensive to climb the Machame route than the Marangu Route, as the Whiskey versus Coca Cola nomenclature would suggest.
Please take a look at our Arusha Park map to make your visit to the park easy and exciting. We have highlighted important landmarks, including Momella Lakes, Ngurduto Crater, and popular trails. You might choose to use it during your travel. It’ll help you explore the nooks and corners while making the most of your time in the park.
We believe that every climber’s journey on Kilimanjaro is unique. That’s why at BestDay Safaris, we offer six distinct routes. Every path has its own tale, scenery, and speed. These six different climbing routes allow every tourist to select one that perfectly suits their goals and personality.
For us, travelling in Tanzania doesn’t mean moving from one location to another. It's really about planning trips that are more about making memories and building trust. Therefore, we have put all our knowledge to craft tours that show you the best of Tanzania and its people.
We are born here and consider these parks as our backyards. We have extensive knowledge of the trails, the best times, and off-the-beaten paths that most visitors miss.
From the initial hello to the last goodbye, we treat every tourist like family. We listen, make changes, and go the additional mile to make your vacation enjoyable.
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It's exciting to climb Kilimanjaro, but it's even more fun when you're ready. There are plans, training tips, packing lists, safety tips, and more here for you to find all the trip guides you need. Before your trip, click on each of the guides below to learn more.
This part covers the most common questions people have concerning Climbing Routes On Kilimanjaro. Our FAQs give you clear information on everything from the length and complexity of the routes to how to acclimatize and what the view is like. This will help you pick the best way for your trip and reach the top with confidence.
The Machame Route is a moderately complex trek. Due to the varying terrain and elevation changes throughout the hike, it is considered one of the most challenging routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Having a well-trained guide and getting proper physical preparation can help you walk through the Machame Route. You need an outstanding level of fitness and determination.
The length of the Machame Route is approximately 62 km (37 miles). This length encompasses from the trailhead to Mweka Gate.
The shortest number of days required to cover the Machame Route is 6 days. But, for better acclimatization, you can cover the route in 7 days.
The Kilimanjaro Summit Success Rate for the Machame Route is very high. According to the statistics, the average success rate across all Kilimanjaro Tour Operators is 85% for a 7-day trek and 73% for a 6-day trek.
The scenery on the Machame Route, Kilimanjaro, is exceptionally varied. You’re going to pass through 5 climatic zones on your way to the Uhuru Peak. At the lower slopes, you’re going through the rainforest zone. Then, you will continue up into the low alpine zone, characterized by wild grasslands and moorlands.
Finally, trek into the high alpine zone before reaching the glacial zone. All the while, get ready to encounter stunning vistas such as Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and Lava Tower.
The Best time to climb Kilimanjaro is from July to September. You’re less likely to encounter rain during this period, and the weather is likely more stable. Since Kilimanjaro is close to the equator, it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year. Avoid April and May, as it is more likely to rain during this time.
When someone says a trip changed them, we listen. Many guests have written about moments that stayed long after they left, wildlife, culture, and friendships. Their voices give you a glimpse of the Tanzania we’re proud to show.
I can’t thank best day safari enough for the incredible journey they planned for us.Climbing Kilimanjaro was a dream come true & the guides and the support team made us feel safe.
Bestday Safaris designed this fantastic safari to meet our needs. There were eight of us, two families of friends, split between two jeeps with the fantastic guides Tuma and Emanuel.
These were days we will never forget. The organization by Bestdays Safari was flawless in every way.Yuna is a truly special person – she fulfilled every single request of mine.
Whether you are ready for Tanzania Safari Dream or Kilimanjaro Adventure or Beach Relaxation for a few days or a few weeks long, our experts will create an itinerary from scratch, fully tailored to your wishes. Want to visit a beautiful destination or start an adventure to reach the top, or relax in a paradise, we will make it happen.