Machame Route Overview
The Machame Route, affectionately called the "Whiskey Route," is Kilimanjaro’s showstopper. Known for jaw-dropping vistas and a trail that feels like trekking through nature’s personal photo album, it takes you on a journey through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and otherworldly lunar landscapes. What makes Machame a fan favorite? Its smart acclimatization profile and just-right mix of challenge and reward. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer, the Machame Route offers an unforgettable climb with high success rates—especially if you opt for the seven-day itinerary, giving you extra time to soak in the adventure (and catch your breath).
Machame Route Map
Machame Considerations
Diverse Landscapes
🌿 Lush Rainforests → 🏜 Alpine Deserts → 🧊 Glacial Summit
No two days on the Machame Route look the same! This trek takes you through some of Kilimanjaro’s most stunning and varied terrain, offering unforgettable sights and challenges along the way.
✅ Shira Plateau – Vast high-altitude plains with sweeping views of the mountain.
🗿 Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190ft) – A dramatic volcanic formation and key acclimatization stop.
🥾 Barranco Wall – A thrilling non-technical scramble with jaw-dropping panoramas.
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers who want a constantly changing, visually stunning experience.
🔹 What to Expect: Every day feels like a new adventure.
Popular & Loved
🚶 Chosen by 35-50% of all Kilimanjaro climbers
🥃 Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” – Moderate difficulty, but very rewarding
Machame is one of the most sought-after routes on Kilimanjaro, striking the perfect balance between challenge, scenery, and accessibility. Its popularity means a well-established trail, plenty of support, and an energetic trekking community.
🔹 Perfect for: Climbers who want a mix of challenge, adventure, and social atmosphere.
🔹 What to Expect: A lively, well-traveled trail with a supportive trekking community.
High Success Rates
📍 Choose between a 6-day or 7-day itinerary
⏳ 6-day trek – 87.3% summit success rate.
⏳ 7-day trek – 93.1% summit success rate (extra acclimatization day).
🚀 More time on the mountain = better acclimatization = higher chances of reaching Uhuru Peak!
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers who want a good balance of challenge and success.
🔹 What to Expect: A solid acclimatization plan, especially on the 7-day route.
Challenging Yet Rewarding
🔥 Steep sections, thrilling scrambles, and stunning rewards
🥾 The Barranco Wall – A fun, hands-on rock scramble with incredible views.
⛺ High-altitude camping – Wake up to breathtaking sunrises above the clouds.
🏆 A strong sense of accomplishment – Machame challenges you but doesn’t overwhelm.
While Machame is physically demanding, the ever-changing scenery and strategic acclimatization make it an exhilarating experience.
🔹 Perfect for: Those who want a true adventure without technical climbing.
🔹 What to Expect: A mix of effort and reward—challenging but achievable.
Active Route
🌍 One of the busiest routes, especially during peak seasons
🎉 Supportive trekking community & lively atmosphere
If you enjoy meeting fellow adventurers, Machame is the perfect route. The shared challenge, stunning campsites, and high energy of the trail create an atmosphere of camaraderie and motivation.
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers who enjoy a social atmosphere with other climbers.
🔹 What to Expect: A well-traveled, high-energy route, especially from June–October & December–February.
DAY 1 - Machame Gate → Machame Camp
Your adventure begins with a 2.5-3 hour drive from Arusha to the Machame Gate. From here, the trek follows a winding trail through lush rainforest, then gradually ascending along a ridge between two valleys. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Machame Camp, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by nature.
- Elevation: 1,640 m to 2,850 m / 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
- Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 2 - Machame Camp → Shira 2 Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail steepens as it climbs rocky ridges. You’ll traverse the expansive Shira Plateau, with its striking heather and open moorlands. After crossing a large river gorge, you’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp for the evening.
- Elevation: 2,850 m to 3,810 m / 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Heath
DAY 3 - Shira 2 Camp → Lava Tower → Barranco Camp
The day begins with a steady climb eastward, ascending a ridge before turning southeast toward the impressive Lava Tower, a 300-foot volcanic rock formation. After lunch at the tower, you’ll descend through the unique and Senecio Forest to reach Barranco Camp. This trek, though starting and ending at similar elevations, aids acclimatization by spending time at higher altitudes.
Shira 2 Camp → Lava Tower
- Elevation: 3,810 m to 4,630 m / 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
- Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Heath to Low Alpine Desert
Lava Tower → Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 4,630 m to 3,970 m / 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
- Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Habitat: Low Alpine Desert
DAY 4 - Barranco Camp → Barafu Camp
Our trek begins with a descent into the impressive Great Barranco, a massive ravine. The trail then ascends steeply up the Great Barranco Wall, a non-technical but challenging climb. Passing beneath the Heim and Kersten Glaciers, we trek through the Karanga Valley—our last water stop—before continuing on scree trails toward Barafu Camp in the arid high alpine desert.
- Elevation: 3,900 m to 4,673 m / 12,795 ft to 15,331 ft
- Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Habitat: Low Alpine to High Alpine Desert
DAY 5 - Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
We begin the final ascent around midnight, trekking steeply upwards on scree towards the summit glaciers. After 4-5 hours, we reach Stella Point (5,739 m) just in time for sunrise, with stunning views of the crater and Mawenzi Peak. An additional hour brings us to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. The descent retraces our steps to Barafu Camp for breakfast, then continues to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
- Elevation: 4,673 m to 5,895 m to 3,068 m / 15,331 ft to 19,431 ft to 12,434 ft
- Distance: 13.4 km / 8.3 miles
- Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert to Arctic to Rainforest
DAY 6 - Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate
After a peaceful night’s rest, we begin the final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, we’ll honor your achievements with a celebration meal; followed by receiving your summit certificates, and return to the hotel to relax and reflect on your journey.
- Elevation: 3,068 m to 1,640 m / 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
- Distance: 10 km / 6.5 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 1 - Machame Gate → Machame Camp
Your adventure begins with a 2.5-3 hour drive from Arusha to the Machame Gate. From here, the trek follows a winding trail through lush rainforest, then gradually ascending along a ridge between two valleys. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Machame Camp, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by nature.
- Elevation: 1,640 m to 2,850 m / 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
- Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 2 - Machame Camp → Shira 2 Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail steepens as it climbs rocky ridges. You’ll traverse the expansive Shira Plateau, with its striking heather and open moorlands. After crossing a large river gorge, you’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp for the evening.
- Elevation: 2,850 m to 3,810 m / 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Heath
DAY 3 - Shira 2 Camp → Lava Tower → Barranco Camp
The day begins with a steady climb eastward, ascending a ridge before turning southeast toward the impressive Lava Tower, a 300-foot volcanic rock formation. After lunch at the tower, you’ll descend through the unique and Senecio Forest to reach Barranco Camp. This trek, though starting and ending at similar elevations, aids acclimatization by spending time at higher altitudes.
Shira 2 Camp → Lava Tower
- Elevation: 3,810 m to 4,630 m / 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
- Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Heath to Low Alpine Desert
Lava Tower → Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 4,630 m to 3,970 m / 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
- Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Habitat: Low Alpine Desert
DAY 4 - Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp
The day starts with a descent into a ravine, followed by a challenging yet non-technical climb up the Great Barranco Wall. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. The trail then undulates through ascents and descents, leading to Karanga Camp, an ideal spot for rest and acclimatization.
- Elevation: 3,970 m to 3,995 m / 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 5 - Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp
After leaving Karanga Camp, the trail joins the Mweka Trail and continues to ascend towards Barafu Camp. This section completes the Southern Circuit, offering panoramic views of the summit. Upon arrival at Barafu, you’ll have an early dinner and prepare for the summit push.
- Elevation: 3,995 m to 4,673 m / 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
- Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 6 - Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
We begin the final ascent around midnight, trekking steeply upwards on scree towards the summit glaciers. After 4-5 hours, we reach Stella Point (5,739 m) just in time for sunrise, with stunning views of the crater and Mawenzi Peak. An additional hour brings us to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. The descent retraces our steps to Barafu Camp for breakfast, then continues to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
- Elevation: 4,673 m to 5,895 m to 3,068 m / 15,331 ft to 19,431 ft to 12,434 ft
- Distance: 13.4 km / 8.3 miles
- Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert to Arctic to Rainforest
DAY 7 - Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate
After a peaceful night’s rest, we begin the final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, we’ll honor your achievements with a celebration meal; followed by receiving your summit certificates, and return to the hotel to relax and reflect on your journey.
- Elevation: 3,068 m to 1,640 m / 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
- Distance: 10 km / 6.5 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Machame
6 Days-
Single Guest - $3,400
-
2 Guests - $2,500
-
3 Guests - $2,400
-
4 Guests - $2,300
-
5 Guests - $2,300
-
6 Guests - $2,200
-
7 Guests - $2,150
-
8 Guests - $2,100
Machame
7 Days-
Single Guest - $3,650
-
2 Guests - $2,750
-
3 Guests - $2,650
-
4 Guests - $2,550
-
5 Guests - $2,550
-
6 Guests - $2,450
-
7 Guests - $2,400
-
8 Guests - $2,350
Machame
6 Days-
Single Guest - $3,400
-
2 Guests - $2,500
-
3 Guests - $2,400
-
4 Guests - $2,300
-
5 Guests - $2,300
-
6 Guests - $2,200
-
7 Guests - $2,150
-
8 Guests - $2,100
Machame
7 Days-
Single Guest - $3,650
-
2 Guests - $2,750
-
3 Guests - $2,650
-
4 Guests - $2,550
-
5 Guests - $2,550
-
6 Guests - $2,450
-
7 Guests - $2,400
-
8 Guests - $2,350
Included with Trek
Airport pickup & drop-off + transport to/from the mountain
Smooth, Hassle-Free Airport & Hotel Transfers
Welcome to Tanzania! The moment you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, one of our professional drivers will be there to greet you with a warm smile and a spacious, comfortable ride straight to your hotel.
Our vehicles are built for comfort, with plenty of room for you and your gear. Plus, we’ll have complimentary bottled water waiting for you.
Safety first! Every vehicle undergoes routine maintenance and inspections, ensuring a smooth ride every time.
Experienced, English-Speaking Drivers
Our drivers are not just skilled—they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English, making your ride enjoyable and stress-free.
Hotel-to-Kilimanjaro Transfers
When it’s time to hit the mountain, we’ll transport you in reliable Toyota Hiace or Coaster vehicles—built tough for Tanzania’s terrain.
Return Transfers
After your adventure, we’ll take you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport—because your journey with us isn’t just about the climb, but the entire experience.
2 nights (before & after trek) in a comfortable Arusha hotel
Your comfort matters—before and after the climb.
Pre & Post-Trek Hotel Stays
Two Nights Included: One night before your climb and one night after—giving you time to rest, recover, and celebrate.
Default Rooming: Double-occupancy rooms are standard, but if you’d prefer your own space, single rooms are available upon request (subject to availability).
Preferred Accommodations
We primarily partner with The Outpost Lodge and Mvuli Hotel, but if unavailable, we’ll book a comparable alternative that meets the same standards of comfort and service.
Prefer a specific hotel? Just let us know—we’ll make it happen.
Hotel Features
- Daily Breakfast
Friendly, professional staff
On-site restaurant & swimming pool
Comfortable rooms with mosquito nets
Complimentary Wi-Fi & laundry services
Extra Nights
If your trek ends earlier than expected, we’ll secure a hotel room for you in Arusha (additional cost applies).
Gear Delivery & Orientation
The day before your climb, our team will meet you at the hotel for an in-depth orientation.
If you’ve rented gear, we’ll deliver it to your hotel, so you can check everything before setting off.
High-quality tents, sleeping mats, private toilet, etc.
We’ve got your back—with top-tier gear designed for Kilimanjaro’s rugged conditions.
High-Quality, All-Weather Tents
Weatherproof & Reliable: Our 4-season Mountain Hardwear and North Face tents are built for rain, wind, and cold temperatures—so you stay dry and warm.
Spacious Setup: Designed for three people, but we only place two per tent for added comfort.
Private Tent Option: Prefer a solo tent? Let us know in advance! (Extra charge applies.)
Private Portable Toilet
No public toilets, no worries! We provide a dedicated private toilet at all campsites and lunch stops—exclusively for your group. Crew members do not use it.
Comfortable Sleeping Setup
Thick 3-inch Sleeping Mats—because a good night’s sleep is key to summit success.
Dining Experience
Spacious Dining Tents—windproof, rainproof, and perfect for meals & socializing.
Sturdy Tables & Real Tableware—stainless steel cutlery, ceramic plates. No flimsy disposables here!
Comfortable Camping Chairs—because nobody wants to sit on a rock after a long hike.
Hygiene & Comfort
Handwashing Station with Hot Water—staying fresh on the mountain is a luxury we provide.
Prime Campsite Locations—our team arrives early to secure the best spots, ensuring peace, privacy, and epic views.
Freshly prepared, chef-cooked meals on the trek
High-altitude trekking needs fuel, not just food. Our professionally trained chefs prepare every meal fresh, balancing nutrition, energy, and taste.
Fresh, Locally Sourced Ingredients
We source our meat, vegetables, and fruits from local Tanzanian farmers, ensuring freshness, quality, and community support.
Ingredients are certified by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Tailored for Your Dietary Needs
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, we’ve got you covered—at no extra cost.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, sausages, spinach, sweet potatoes, toast, coffee & tea.
Lunch: Fresh soups, pasta, stews, salads, mashed potatoes, grilled chicken.
Dinner: Hearty soups, vegetable salads, beef, chicken, or fish with Tanzanian spices, fresh fruit for dessert.
Cooking in the Wild
Meals are prepared on a camping gas oven, with our chefs working their magic in all weather conditions.
Our team serves hot meals daily—no freeze-dried food here.
Nutritional and Delicious Meals
Menu Designed by Experts: Our meal plans are created in consultation with a professional dietitian to ensure a perfect balance of taste and energy for your trek.
Flexible Dietary Options: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, or have other dietary needs, we’ll accommodate your preferences at no extra cost. Simply inform your manager in advance, and our mountain chef will customize your meals.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Options include porridge, eggs, sausages, vegetables, spinach cooked local-style (mchicha), sweet potatoes, and coffee or tea.
Lunch: Soups (butternut, tomato, vegetable, beef); spaghetti; stews; avocado salads; mashed potatoes; fried chicken with flavorful sauces; and other local and international dishes.
Dinner: Enjoy a soup; vegetable salads (kachumbari or Mexican-style); main dishes with chicken, beef, or fish; fried vegetables; and stews like bamia stew. Each meal is served with tasty sauces, extra seasonings, and fresh local fruits such as mangoes, oranges, pineapple, and bananas for a vitamin boost.
Locally Sourced and Fresh Ingredients
Organic Produce: We source fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats from small, neighboring farms to ensure quality and support the local economy.
Certified Suppliers: All ingredients meet standards set by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Meals During the Trek
Fully Catered Experience: Our chefs prepare all meals during the trek, except for lunch on the first day, which is served upon entering the park before reaching the first camp.
Camp Kitchen Expertise: Meals are prepared in a camp kitchen using a camping gas oven and electric torch for lighting, even in challenging weather conditions.
Certified guides, porters, waiters, and mountain chefs
The best guides make the best climbs.
Highly Experienced Guides
Decades of Trekking Experience—they know Kili inside and out.
Certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR)—trained in emergency medical care for high-altitude environments.
Storytellers & Cultural Experts—they’ll entertain you with Kilimanjaro’s history, myths, and local traditions.
Hardworking Support Crew
Porters, Chefs & Camp Managers—the real heroes behind your success.
Fair Wages & Proper Gear—we believe in ethical treatment, ensuring our team is well-paid and well-equipped.
Daily health checks, bottled oxygen, emergency evacuation plan, etc.
Your well-being is our top priority.
Daily Health Monitoring
Twice-Daily Medical Check-Ups—every hiker gets a full health assessment in the morning and evening.
Vital Sign Monitoring—oxygen levels, blood pressure, and altitude adaptation checks.
Mandatory for All Climbers—whether you feel fine or not, these check-ups keep you safe and acclimatized.
Oxygen & Emergency Response
Bottled Oxygen—for acclimatization support and AMS treatment.
AMS Scoring System—we use Lake Louise Acute Mountain Sickness assessments to monitor symptoms.
Emergency Evacuation Plan—if needed, our team is trained for rapid response and safe descent.
Medical Kits & Equipment
Large “Camp” Medical Kits—stocked with 49+ essential medications and first-aid supplies.
Portable Tactical Kits—carried by guides for quick injury treatment.
All Kilimanjaro National Park & associated fees
No hidden fees. No surprises. We include everything upfront.
Comprehensive Park Fees
Camping & Conservation Fees
Rescue Fees
Crew Wages & Fees
Forest Fees (on applicable routes)
These fees go directly toward preserving Kilimanjaro’s environment and supporting local conservation efforts.
Excluded From Trek
International airfare to/from Tanzania
Our packages do not include international flights—you’ll need to book and pay for these separately.
Need recommendations? We’re happy to help! Just reach out for guidance on airlines flying into Tanzania.
Recommended $250–$350 per trekker for your hardworking crew
Tipping is a long-standing tradition in trekking—a way to show appreciation for the hard work your guides, porters, and chefs put into making your climb unforgettable.
- Tipping is optional but appreciated if your crew delivers an experience that goes above and beyond.
- Recommended Amount: $250–$350 per trekker (USD).
Your crew will celebrate every step you take up the mountain, and a generous tip is a great way to celebrate them in return!
Visa Fee
Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. Here’s what to expect:
- Standard Visa Fee: $50 USD (single-entry, valid for 90 days).
- U.S. Nationals: $100 USD (multi-entry visa required).
- Need more details? Check out our Tanzania Visa & Entry Guide or contact us for assistance.
Personal Gear
You’ll need essentials like hiking boots, sleeping bag, backpack, clothing, etc.
- If you’d rather rent gear than pack it all, just send us your list, and we’ll have everything ready when you arrive.
Single Supplement
By default, hotel rooms and tents are shared between two people when booking as a private group of two or more.
- Prefer a private room and/or tent? No problem—a single supplement is available (extra charge applies).
- Exception: Single supplements aren’t available on the Marangu Route, where shared huts house up to 20 hikers per night.
Mandatory Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required for all climbers.
- Must Cover: Trekking up to 6,000m and helicopter evacuation.
- Check with your provider to confirm coverage—policies vary by country.
Better safe than sorry! If you need recommendations, we’re happy to help.
Lunch and Dinner at the Hotel
Your hotel stay includes breakfast, but lunch and dinner aren’t covered.
- Eat at the hotel restaurant or explore some great dining spots in Arusha!
- Want local food recommendations? Just ask—we know all the best spots.
Kilimanjaro is only a plane ride (or two) away ✈️
Included with Trek
Excluded From Trek
Airport pickup & drop-off + transport to/from the mountain
Smooth, Hassle-Free Airport & Hotel Transfers
Welcome to Tanzania! The moment you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, one of our professional drivers will be there to greet you with a warm smile and a spacious, comfortable ride straight to your hotel.
Our vehicles are built for comfort, with plenty of room for you and your gear. Plus, we’ll have complimentary bottled water waiting for you.
Safety first! Every vehicle undergoes routine maintenance and inspections, ensuring a smooth ride every time.
Experienced, English-Speaking Drivers
Our drivers are not just skilled—they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English, making your ride enjoyable and stress-free.
Hotel-to-Kilimanjaro Transfers
When it’s time to hit the mountain, we’ll transport you in reliable Toyota Hiace or Coaster vehicles—built tough for Tanzania’s terrain.
Return Transfers
After your adventure, we’ll take you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport—because your journey with us isn’t just about the climb, but the entire experience.
2 nights (before & after trek) in a comfortable Arusha hotel
Your comfort matters—before and after the climb.
Pre & Post-Trek Hotel Stays
Two Nights Included: One night before your climb and one night after—giving you time to rest, recover, and celebrate.
Default Rooming: Double-occupancy rooms are standard, but if you’d prefer your own space, single rooms are available upon request (subject to availability).
Preferred Accommodations
We primarily partner with The Outpost Lodge and Mvuli Hotel, but if unavailable, we’ll book a comparable alternative that meets the same standards of comfort and service.
Prefer a specific hotel? Just let us know—we’ll make it happen.
Hotel Features
- Daily Breakfast
Friendly, professional staff
On-site restaurant & swimming pool
Comfortable rooms with mosquito nets
Complimentary Wi-Fi & laundry services
Extra Nights
If your trek ends earlier than expected, we’ll secure a hotel room for you in Arusha (additional cost applies).
Gear Delivery & Orientation
The day before your climb, our team will meet you at the hotel for an in-depth orientation.
If you’ve rented gear, we’ll deliver it to your hotel, so you can check everything before setting off.
High-quality tents, sleeping mats, private toilet, etc.
We’ve got your back—with top-tier gear designed for Kilimanjaro’s rugged conditions.
High-Quality, All-Weather Tents
Weatherproof & Reliable: Our 4-season Mountain Hardwear and North Face tents are built for rain, wind, and cold temperatures—so you stay dry and warm.
Spacious Setup: Designed for three people, but we only place two per tent for added comfort.
Private Tent Option: Prefer a solo tent? Let us know in advance! (Extra charge applies.)
Private Portable Toilet
No public toilets, no worries! We provide a dedicated private toilet at all campsites and lunch stops—exclusively for your group. Crew members do not use it.
Comfortable Sleeping Setup
Thick 3-inch Sleeping Mats—because a good night’s sleep is key to summit success.
Dining Experience
Spacious Dining Tents—windproof, rainproof, and perfect for meals & socializing.
Sturdy Tables & Real Tableware—stainless steel cutlery, ceramic plates. No flimsy disposables here!
Comfortable Camping Chairs—because nobody wants to sit on a rock after a long hike.
Hygiene & Comfort
Handwashing Station with Hot Water—staying fresh on the mountain is a luxury we provide.
Prime Campsite Locations—our team arrives early to secure the best spots, ensuring peace, privacy, and epic views.
Freshly prepared, chef-cooked meals on the trek
High-altitude trekking needs fuel, not just food. Our professionally trained chefs prepare every meal fresh, balancing nutrition, energy, and taste.
Fresh, Locally Sourced Ingredients
We source our meat, vegetables, and fruits from local Tanzanian farmers, ensuring freshness, quality, and community support.
Ingredients are certified by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Tailored for Your Dietary Needs
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, we’ve got you covered—at no extra cost.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, sausages, spinach, sweet potatoes, toast, coffee & tea.
Lunch: Fresh soups, pasta, stews, salads, mashed potatoes, grilled chicken.
Dinner: Hearty soups, vegetable salads, beef, chicken, or fish with Tanzanian spices, fresh fruit for dessert.
Cooking in the Wild
Meals are prepared on a camping gas oven, with our chefs working their magic in all weather conditions.
Our team serves hot meals daily—no freeze-dried food here.
Nutritional and Delicious Meals
Menu Designed by Experts: Our meal plans are created in consultation with a professional dietitian to ensure a perfect balance of taste and energy for your trek.
Flexible Dietary Options: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, or have other dietary needs, we’ll accommodate your preferences at no extra cost. Simply inform your manager in advance, and our mountain chef will customize your meals.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Options include porridge, eggs, sausages, vegetables, spinach cooked local-style (mchicha), sweet potatoes, and coffee or tea.
Lunch: Soups (butternut, tomato, vegetable, beef); spaghetti; stews; avocado salads; mashed potatoes; fried chicken with flavorful sauces; and other local and international dishes.
Dinner: Enjoy a soup; vegetable salads (kachumbari or Mexican-style); main dishes with chicken, beef, or fish; fried vegetables; and stews like bamia stew. Each meal is served with tasty sauces, extra seasonings, and fresh local fruits such as mangoes, oranges, pineapple, and bananas for a vitamin boost.
Locally Sourced and Fresh Ingredients
Organic Produce: We source fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats from small, neighboring farms to ensure quality and support the local economy.
Certified Suppliers: All ingredients meet standards set by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Meals During the Trek
Fully Catered Experience: Our chefs prepare all meals during the trek, except for lunch on the first day, which is served upon entering the park before reaching the first camp.
Camp Kitchen Expertise: Meals are prepared in a camp kitchen using a camping gas oven and electric torch for lighting, even in challenging weather conditions.
Certified guides, porters, waiters, and mountain chefs
The best guides make the best climbs.
Highly Experienced Guides
Decades of Trekking Experience—they know Kili inside and out.
Certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR)—trained in emergency medical care for high-altitude environments.
Storytellers & Cultural Experts—they’ll entertain you with Kilimanjaro’s history, myths, and local traditions.
Hardworking Support Crew
Porters, Chefs & Camp Managers—the real heroes behind your success.
Fair Wages & Proper Gear—we believe in ethical treatment, ensuring our team is well-paid and well-equipped.
Daily health checks, bottled oxygen, emergency evacuation plan, etc.
Your well-being is our top priority.
Daily Health Monitoring
Twice-Daily Medical Check-Ups—every hiker gets a full health assessment in the morning and evening.
Vital Sign Monitoring—oxygen levels, blood pressure, and altitude adaptation checks.
Mandatory for All Climbers—whether you feel fine or not, these check-ups keep you safe and acclimatized.
Oxygen & Emergency Response
Bottled Oxygen—for acclimatization support and AMS treatment.
AMS Scoring System—we use Lake Louise Acute Mountain Sickness assessments to monitor symptoms.
Emergency Evacuation Plan—if needed, our team is trained for rapid response and safe descent.
Medical Kits & Equipment
Large “Camp” Medical Kits—stocked with 49+ essential medications and first-aid supplies.
Portable Tactical Kits—carried by guides for quick injury treatment.
All Kilimanjaro National Park & associated fees
No hidden fees. No surprises. We include everything upfront.
Comprehensive Park Fees
Camping & Conservation Fees
Rescue Fees
Crew Wages & Fees
Forest Fees (on applicable routes)
These fees go directly toward preserving Kilimanjaro’s environment and supporting local conservation efforts.
International airfare to/from Tanzania
Our packages do not include international flights—you’ll need to book and pay for these separately.
Need recommendations? We’re happy to help! Just reach out for guidance on airlines flying into Tanzania.
Recommended Tipping
Tipping is a long-standing tradition in trekking—a way to show appreciation for the hard work your guides, porters, and chefs put into making your climb unforgettable.
- Tipping is optional but appreciated if your crew delivers an experience that goes above and beyond.
- Recommended Amount: $250–$350 per trekker (USD).
Your crew will celebrate every step you take up the mountain, and a generous tip is a great way to celebrate them in return!
Visa Fee
Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. Here’s what to expect:
- Standard Visa Fee: $50 USD (single-entry, valid for 90 days).
- U.S. Nationals: $100 USD (multi-entry visa required).
- Need more details? Check out our Tanzania Visa & Entry Guide or contact us for assistance.
Personal Gear
You’ll need essentials like hiking boots, sleeping bag, backpack, clothing, etc.
- If you’d rather rent gear than pack it all, just send us your list, and we’ll have everything ready when you arrive.
Single Supplement
By default, hotel rooms and tents are shared between two people when booking as a private group of two or more.
- Prefer a private room and/or tent? No problem—a single supplement is available (extra charge applies).
- Exception: Single supplements aren’t available on the Marangu Route, where shared huts house up to 20 hikers per night.
Mandatory Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required for all climbers.
- Must Cover: Trekking up to 6,000m and helicopter evacuation.
- Check with your provider to confirm coverage—policies vary by country.
Better safe than sorry! If you need recommendations, we’re happy to help.
Lunch and Dinner at the Hotel
Your hotel stay includes breakfast, but lunch and dinner aren’t covered.
- Eat at the hotel restaurant or explore some great dining spots in Arusha!
- Want local food recommendations? Just ask—we know all the best spots.
