Kilimanjaro climb Machame route costs and itinerary

Overview of Machame Route:

The Machame route is also known as the "Whiskey Route" due to its difficulty level. It is a popular route among experienced hikers and offers some of the most spectacular views of Kilimanjaro. The route is challenging but also rewarding, taking hikers through a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, heath, and alpine deserts.

Kilimanjaro machame route itinerary:

The Machame route is typically completed in six or seven days, allowing for adequate acclimatization to the high altitude. The route covers a distance of approximately 62 kilometers (38.5 miles) and includes steep climbs and descents. The itinerary is as follows:

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (3,010 meters / 9,875 feet)

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,845 meters / 12,615 feet)

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower (4,642 meters / 15,223 feet) and then down to Barranco Camp (3,976 meters / 13,044 feet)

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995 meters / 13,106 feet)

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673 meters / 15,331 feet)

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet) and then down to Mweka Camp (3,068 meters / 10,065 feet)

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters / 5,380 feet)

The Machame route can also be completed in an extra day, making it a seven-day climb. This allows for more time to acclimatize to the altitude and can increase the chances of reaching the summit.

What to Expect climbing via Machame route:

The Machame route is a challenging climb, and hikers should be in good physical condition and have previous hiking experience. The climb involves steep inclines and declines, and hikers will need to carry their own equipment and supplies. The weather can also be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot and humid in the lower elevations to below freezing at the summit.

The Machame route offers stunning scenery and wildlife, including unique flora and fauna. Hikers will pass through dense rainforests filled with towering trees and unique wildlife such as Colobus monkeys. As they ascend higher, they will enter the heath zone and then the alpine desert zone, where vegetation becomes sparse and the terrain becomes rocky.

Cost for Machame route climbing

The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame route will depend on several factors, including the duration of the climb, the number of people in the group, and the level of service provided. On average, the cost can range from $1,384 to $5,411 per person. It is essential to choose a reputable tour operator with experienced guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.

In conclusion, the Kilimanjaro climb Machame route is a challenging but rewarding climb, offering incredible views and diverse landscapes. With proper preparation, equipment, and a reputable tour operator, hikers can successfully summit the highest peak in Africa and achieve an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime.