9-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: The Machame “Whiskey” Route

The Machame “Whiskey” Route is one of the most scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The nine-day journey begins with arrival and preparation before crossing rainforest, moorland and alpine desert, then reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres. Highlights include Lava Tower, Barranco Wall and Barafu Camp.

This journey runs for 9 Days / 8 Nights, beginning with arrival and a separate pre-climb preparation day before the seven-day mountain route.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Arusha or Moshi

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Check in, relax and recover from your journey.

Day 2

Pre-climb Preparation

Meet the lead guide for a detailed route and safety briefing, full gear check and final equipment arrangements before the climb.

Day 3

Machame Gate to Machame Camp (1,800m to 2,835m)

Trek through rainforest to first camp Driving/trekking time: 50–90 mins (hotel to gate).

Day 4

Machame Camp to Shira Camp (2,835m to 3,750m)

Trek through moorland to Shira Plateau

Day 5

Shira Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,900m)

Acclimatization day: climb high, sleep low

Day 6

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,900m to 3,995m)

Scramble up Barranco Wall, short hike

Day 7

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (3,995m to 4,673m)

Trek to high camp, summit prep

Day 8

Summit Day: Barafu (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Midnight summit push, long descent

Day 9

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (3,100m to 1,640m), Departure

Final rainforest descent, certificate ceremony, transfer to hotel/Airport Driving/trekking time: 30–45 mins (Mweka to Moshi).

What’s Included

Airport transfers
2 hotel nights (B&B)
Park fees
Camping fees
Conservation & rescue fees
VAT
Transport to gates
Guides
Porters
Cook
Meals on trek
Purified water
Sleeping tents & mattresses
Mess tent with table & chairs
Emergency oxygen
Pulse oximeter

Reviews

★★★★★

“It was absolutely worth it. The guide was very warm and welcoming and was quite knowledgeable. Their company was quite enjoyable and made our trip unforgettable.”

Caren S

★★★★★

“Spotted Africa Safaris are the true warriors of giving joy, we really enjoyed our tour at Ngorongoro. The admission fee was affordable to us and the visit was so interesting. The atmosphere made us so cool, and the tour guide took us to nice spots where we saw lots of wildlife. I was amazed for real. Till next time for sure, I cannot say no to Spotted Africa Safaris.”

Joseph V

★★★★★

“My friends and I from Germany desperately needed a safari trip, and our tour with Spotted Africa Safaris was one of the best experiences of my life. The company was great to work with. Angel listened to my needs and created a perfect trip. Our guide was excellent, courteous, engaging, and very knowledgeable about animals and every small detail. They made us very comfortable with amazing accommodation suggestions, and it is an experience we will never forget. It is a new growing company, totally energized, and I highly recommend them.”

Akaro

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