Machame Route: a scenic way up Kilimanjaro
People call the Machame Route the “Whiskey Route” because it is rough and demanding. It is also one of the most scenic ways to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. If you want big views, a hard but manageable climb and a good chance of reaching the top, Machame is a strong choice.
Below we cover the basics of the Machame Route: how hard it is, its pros and cons, when to go, and how it compares with other routes such as Lemosho and Marangu.
Why choose the Machame Route?
Machame is one of the busiest routes on the mountain, and for good reasons:
-
The views: You walk through rainforest, past volcanic rock, across alpine desert and up towards the glaciers, all on one trek.
-
Hard, but fair: It is tougher than Marangu but less remote than Lemosho. It suits people who are reasonably fit.
-
Good success rate: With 6–7 day options, your body has time to adjust to the altitude, which helps on summit night.
-
Good value: It is one of the cheaper routes, and the camps and paths are well set up.
