The Machame route is also known as the “Whiskey” route, nowadays the most popular route on Mt. Kilimanjaro. The walking days on the Machame route are longer and often steeper, compared to the Marangu route, but the scenery is stunning and the landscape is quite interesting. This route is known to be challenging, which is why it is best suited for people who have previous experience hiking and backpacking.

The Machame route is scenically beautiful and diverse, but due to its popularity is often very crowded. It approaches the summit from the southwest and descends using the Mweka route. Hikers are rewarded with a spectacular view of the extensive Shira plateau and an optional scramble up Lava Tower. A climb up the Great Barranco wall and a traverse underneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field are also bonuses on the Machame route. Climbers sleep in tents at designated campsites; meals are served outside when the weather is favorable, or inside a large dining tent when it is not. The meals are prepared by the Bless Africa staff, as well as putting up and taking down the tents.

This route has a highly successful rate for reaching the summit. On Machame you will climb high and sleep lower, due to the positioning of the campsites, which helps tremendously with your acclimatization and increases your chances of reaching the summit.