The Machame route, also referred to as the Whiskey route, is one of the most popular routes on Kilimanjaro and a favorite for Alaitol Safaris. Despite being a tough climb compared to the Marangu route, the Machame route has one of the highest summit success rates given the topography of the route which allows climbers to “trek high & sleep low” hence making it a more favorable route for acclimatization. Unlike the Marangu route which is a gradual ascent,the Machame route is has steeper trails and climbers walk longer distances. This route offers some of the most spectacular scenery while on the mountain.The Machame route starts in the south west side of the mountain and proceeds steeply north, traversing the Shira plateau and eventually joining the Shira and Lemosho routes at the Shira camp. The Machame route can be done in minimum 6 days but a 7 day trek is recommended so climbers are well rested and acclimatized before making the final ascent to the summit.
Gears You Need to Bring
You are responsible for bringing personal gear and equipment. Below is a gear list you need to bring on your climb.
Item Quantity(ies)
Highlights
Climb Kilimanjaro with Alaitol
With a successful summit rate of 98 percent (compared to the 60-70 percent average), Alaitol’s Mount Kilimanjaro expeditions give you an outstanding chance of reaching ‘the roof of Africa’. Our experienced climbing team oversees every factor that contributes to a successful climb
Guides & porters
Every Alaitol guide is a certified Wilderness First Responder, trained in mountain craft, natural history, and ecological awareness. Our guides are also trained in first aid and are fluent in English, and most have completed over 200 summits. A founding member of the Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project and a proud Partner for Responsible Travel with the International Mountain Explorers Connection, Alaitol’s is an advocate for the welfare of our team of porters. Their hard work and dedication are what make every Alaitol’s trek possible.
Comforts on the mountain
Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro comes easier to those who are well-rested – and Alaitol campsites are famous for their comforts. Our customised sleeping tents are the largest and most luxurious on the mountain, designed for two people with raised camp beds and tall ceiling heights. Solar-lit dining tents with comfortable tables and chairs allow you to relax out of the elements and rejuvenate during the trek. Hygienic private toilets are also exclusively available to Alaitol trekkers.
Safety on the mountain
Alaitol’s climbs use the finest climbing and camping apparatus, safety equipment, and communications network. On every climb, we supply and carry all safety and emergency equipment, including emergency oxygen, a portable altitude chamber, a defibrillator, pulse oximeters, a stretcher, an extensive first aid kit, and three means of communication (mobile phone, two-way radio, and satellite phone).
Food & nutrition
Another key element to conquering Kilimanjaro is to maintain proper nutrition throughout your entire trek. Every meal is designed to provide the fuel you need to reach the summit. Unlike many other companies, Alaitol provides fresh food throughout the entire trek, including abundant snacks between meals as well as unlimited, purified water. Special diets can also be accommodated.
Acclimatisation
While most trekkers spend a total of five days on the mountain, we schedule seven days to allow more time for premium altitude acclimatisation, contributing to Alaitol’s successful summit rate of 98 percent.
Sustainable Treks
Alaitol leaves no trace on the mountain and takes pride in operating green campsites. Every Alaitol camp is completely portable with no fixed ground structures or plumbing, and we remove all waste and rubbish from our treks.
Moshi Town, +255, Moshi Town