Our expedition dates and prices are guaranteed once booked.
This means the trip will proceed as planned, even if you are the only participant
We ensure proper acclimatization on your Mount Kilimanjaro expedition. Our professional guides are dedicated to your success.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey to the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, where mesmerizing scenic vistas unfold before your eyes. Witness the grandeur of Africa's highest peak as it pierces the sky, offering visual euphoria and the promise of truly amazing, gallery-worthy photographs that will last a lifetime.
Our climbing itineraries are expertly designed for your success, featuring a seamless acclimatization transition. This means your body adjusts gradually and comfortably, maximizing your enjoyment and safety on the mountain.
One of the most popular routes for those determined to reach the summit – the Machame route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is the perfect pathway to the summit. Over half those who make the spirit-defining decision to climb Kilimanjaro will opt for this route, despite it being tougher and more treacherous than neighboring Marangu. The reason for its popularity lies mainly in its range of natural habitats and its flourishing scenery.
Monkeys in trees, soft heather lands, crater deserts, glacial walls, and lava towers – these are just some of the sights that pull people tumbling into the world of the Machame route. The Machame route can take four days to ascend and an additional two to come down the mountain. There is the option to stop at the Karanga Valley, which is recommended for those who want to ease the pace and boost their chances of summit success.
Machame is for those who want to take a more adventurous path. The days are longer, the way is steeper, and the challenges greater. If you have previous hiking experience, then Machame can truly test your fierce nature.
Reach Out: We’re Here for You
Touch down at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your driver will be waiting to greet you. Let your driver whisk you away to your chosen hotel in the bright and bustling city of Arusha –the gateway to Tanzania.
Arusha is the beating heart of the wild – the last port of civilization before heading out into dense jungles and rich savannah plains. The markets of Arusha burst with color, and throng with locals picking up their weekly wares. The numerous cafes sell dark and deliriously good coffee from the plantations, and close by the infamous National Park lures visitors in to explore her evocative Maasai culture and exotic flora and fauna.
In the evening, you will enjoy a quick briefing, which will be conducted by a professional Bush 2 City Mountain Guide about your trek, and to ensure you are ready for climbing.
After a hotel breakfast in Moshi/Arusha, you’ll drive 45/90 minutes through coffee plantations and villages to Machame Gate. There, you’ll register with Kilimanjaro National Park while your gear is prepared. Then, you’ll hike through rainforest and savannah to Machame Camp, enjoying views of wildlife, plants, and eventually Kibo Peak. Your porters and cooks will have a hot meal ready for your arrival.
Distance: 11km
Estimated hiking time: 5-8 hours
Elevation gain; 1,035m
Vegetation zone: Rain Forest
After a warm breakfast, you’ll start your day by packing up your gear and heading out across the heathland and moorland dunes. As you trek, you’ll experience increasingly higher altitudes, which will help your body acclimatize. You’ll climb the lava-filled Shira Plateau before making your way to Shira Camp, where your porters and cooks will have a delicious meal ready for you.
Distance: 5 km
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain; 915m
Vegetation zone: Moorland
Today’s trek begins early with a steep, rewarding climb east across the Shira Plateau. After the junction of the Shira and Lemosho Routes, you’ll take a secluded trail for a break. Lunch will be at Lava Tower, an incredible 300-foot volcanic plug, before a rapid descent to your campsite in the Great Barranco Valley. This scenic spot is encompassed by massive valley walls and the stunning Kibo massif, with glaciers reflecting sunlight and a unique landscape featuring giant lobelias and groundsels. You’ll then enjoy a warm meal before retiring to sleep. Today’s climb will reach an altitude of 4,600 m, but you’ll descend to sleep at 3,900 m, an important strategy for acclimatization.
Distance: 10km
Estimated hiking time: 6-8 hours
Elevation gain; 850m
Elevation loss; –700m
This section of the Machame Route is filled with thrilling exploration and life-changing scenery. You’ll start the day with a 90-minute climb up the magnificent Barranco Wall, also known as the Breakfast Wall. After that, you’ll continue along a calm trail until you reach the Karanga Valley. Here, you’ll settle and mentally prepare for the final stretch of your journey.
Distance: 6km
Estimated hiking time: 4-6 hours
Elevation gain; 300m
Elevation loss 205m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
The final day on the Machame Route before the summit begins with a gentle climb through the Karanga Valley, where temperatures will drop and vegetation will thin out. You’ll set up camp on an exposed part of the ridge (barafu camp) and enjoy an energy-rich meal to prepare for your midnight ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Distance: 4km
Estimated hiking time: 3-4 hours
Elevation gain; 678m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Your journey to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro starts just after midnight, taking you across sapphire glaciers to Stella Point. A beautiful sunrise will illuminate the summit as you proceed toward your ultimate destination: Uhuru Peak, known as the “Rooftop of Africa.”
From the summit, you’ll feel an immense sense of exhilaration and triumph as you look down upon the clouds and ice. Following a celebration with your support team, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for a short break, then move on to Mweka Camp. There, a hot meal will be waiting, and you’ll spend your last night on the mountain unwinding beneath the stars.
NB: This is the longest and most challenging day of the trek.
Distance: 17 km, (5km ascent, 12km descent)
Estimated hiking Time: 12-16 hours (7-8 hours to summit, 5-6 hours descending)
Elevation Gain: +1,222 to the summit
Elevation loss; -2,795m descent
Vegetation zone: Arctic / Rainforest
After breakfast, you’ll walk back to Mweka Gate, enjoying the misty, deep green forest. You’ll then say goodbye to your guides and porters before getting into the shuttle that will take you back to Moshi, where you can look forward to a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and fresh clothes.
Distance: 10 km
Estimated hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation Loss: -1,460m
Vegetation zone: Rainforest
After getting some rest and refreshments at the hotel, your driver guide will take you to the airport, ready for your flight back home.
NOTE: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of your evening flight there is a procedural option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee
To ensure a smooth start and end to your climb, our package provides dedicated transfers specifically for your journey to and from the park gate. For your arrival and departure at the airport, we offer a separate, optional transfer service that can be arranged at your convenience. Just let us know your flight details if you’d like us to organize this for you.
Your pre and post-climb accommodation is included in your package. We’ve arranged comfortable stays for you before and after your climb to ensure you’re well-rested and ready for your adventure.
For your convenience and comfort on the mountain, we provide all necessary camping equipment for the trip, including tents, cooking gear, and dining essentials. Please note that you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.
Rest assured, all your meals throughout the entire climbing trip will be freshly prepared by our team. We’ve got your culinary needs covered from start to finish!
You’ll be in excellent hands with our experienced team on the mountain. Our well-trained and WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certified guides will lead the way, ensuring your safety and success. Our hardworking porters will manage all your gear, and our dedicated cook will prepare delicious meals, making your entire trip enjoyable and seamless.
For your safety on the mountain, an emergency oxygen tank is included and will be carried by the crew throughout your climb.
Your safety is our priority. We include daily medical check-ups by our WFR-certified guides, and our crew will carry a fully loaded medical kit to address any health concerns that may arise during the trek.
For your peace of mind, we provide 24/7 support via satellite phone throughout your entire trip, ensuring constant communication and emergency access no matter where you are on the mountain.
To ensure a completely hassle-free experience, all necessary park entrance fees, conservation fees, rescue fees, and government taxes are fully included in your package price. This means you won’t encounter any hidden costs for accessing the national park or climbing Kilimanjaro itself, allowing you to focus purely on your adventure.
You’ll have the full backing of our dedicated support team throughout your entire journey. From your initial inquiry until you safely return home, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Don’t worry about your extra luggage while you’re on the mountain. We provide a safe and secure storage room for any bags you don’t need to take on your climb. You can leave your belongings with us with complete peace of mind, and they’ll be ready for you upon your return
We’re passionate about protecting Mount Kilimanjaro’s natural splendor. Our “Leave No Trace” approach goes beyond words: we take proactive steps by deploying our dedicated teams during the off-peak season to remove any litter from the mountain. Our company fully funds these vital clean-up initiatives, ensuring every adventure with us contributes to a truly responsible and sustainable environment.
We’re passionate about protecting Mount Kilimanjaro’s natural splendor. Our “Leave No Trace” approach goes beyond words: we take proactive steps by deploying our dedicated teams during the off-peak season to remove any litter from the mountain. Our company fully funds these vital clean-up initiatives, ensuring every adventure with us contributes to a truly responsible and sustainable environment.
To ensure your comfort and maintain excellent hygiene during your Mount Kilimanjaro expedition, portable toilets are thoughtfully included in your package. Our aim is to provide a clean and convenient experience at all times.
We understand the importance of privacy and freedom while on the mountain. By providing dedicated portable toilets, we avoid reliance on public facilities. This not only gives you more personal space but also addresses the challenge of maintaining hygiene in public toilets, which can often be heavily used and difficult for park authorities to keep 100% clean at all times.
International flights to and from Tanzania are not included.
Please note that tips for your climbing crew are not included in the package price. Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by our hardworking team for their excellent service. We encourage you to read more about our suggested tipping structure on our website for detailed guidance.
Please be aware that visa fees are not included in your package. You will be responsible for obtaining the necessary visa for entry into Tanzania.
Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the visa application process, click here for more info regarding visa application.
Please note that personal gear rentals (e.g., specialized clothing, trekking poles, etc.) are not included in your package. While you’ll need to bring your own personal climbing and trekking equipment, it’s worth noting that there are reliable rental shops here in Tanzania.
This means you don’t necessarily have to buy all the equipment, especially if you don’t anticipate needing it for future treks. Instead of carrying a heavy load of gear from home, you can opt to bring essential items and rent the rest upon your arrival, making your travel much lighter and more convenient.
Please note that our package pricing is based on shared accommodation (double occupancy). If you are a solo traveler and prefer a private room, a single supplement will apply and will be an additional charge to your package.
Please be advised that travel insurance is not included in your package. It is mandatory for all clients to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, evacuation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Please note that lunch and dinner at your hotel before and after your climb are not included in your package. Only breakfast is provided at the hotel. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your own dining options for lunch and dinner during these times.
Contact us. Our team is always here to help.
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