One the seven main routes used to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the Machame route is the most popular path. It is the route of choice for many people because it provides impressive views and a variety of habitats. About 50% of all climbers, and most seasoned climbers, choose the Machame route.
The Machame route is also known as the Whiskey route, given its reputation for being a tough climb, in contrast to the easier Marangu route, which is known as the Coca Cola route. Unlike the gradual incline and hut accommodations found on the Marangu Route, the climbers on Machame hike steeper trails, for longer distances, while sleeping in tents.
Despite it being a little more difficult it is highly recommended because it provides a fantastic trail and great views along the way. We are looking very to taking you on a trip of a lifetime.
Challenge yourself with a seven-day trek up Mount Kilimanjaro via the renowned Machame Route—the ‘whiskey route’ known for its excellent acclimatization and high summit success rates. Starting at Machame Gate, ascend through lush rainforest, traverse the Shira Plateau, and conquer the dramatic Barranco Wall before your final push to the summit. Descend via the scenic Mweka trail, sharing the journey with a like-minded group. This trek is suitable for both novice high-altitude hikers and experienced mountaineers seeking a classic Kilimanjaro experience. The unique feature is the route’s optimal balance of altitude gain and rest, making your summit attempt both achievable and memorable.
For the ultimate trekking adventure, few experiences compare to the "Ethical & Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route 8 Days." Designed for those who dream of summiting Africa’s highest peak, this trip offers a carefully paced ascent via the scenic Lemosho route—renowned for its acclimatization, diverse terrain, and breathtaking vistas. Traverse Afromontane forests, cross the Shira plateau, and marvel at alpine deserts, all while guided by ethical, expert operators committed to your comfort and safety. The unique selling point? This tour not only maximizes your summit chances but does so with a strong focus on responsible travel and local support, making your Lemosho trek both memorable and meaningful.
For those who dream of summiting Africa’s legendary peaks, the Mount Kenya Trek – Chogoria to Sirimon Route offers a 5-day adventure to Point Lenana (4,985 m), the mountain's third-highest summit. Tailored for both active young adults and seniors seeking a rewarding trekking experience, this guided journey takes you through bamboo forests, dramatic valleys, and rocky alpine landscapes. Ascend via the scenic Chogoria route, descend through the Sirimon route, and marvel at panoramic vistas of Gorges Valley and the Northern Moorlands.
Nights under the stars in comfortable tents and sunrise on the summit make this tour especially memorable. Its unique selling point is the combination of diverse ecosystems and the achievement of reaching a major peak without technical climbing. For hikers wanting a challenging yet accessible trekking tour packed with natural splendor, this Mount Kenya trek is an unmissable experience.
The Lemosho Route is perhaps the most scenic Kilimanjaro route, from the first day to the last. The trail begins north of Shira, also on the western side of the mountain. But unlike the Shira Route, where for the first day you walk on a wide 4 WD road, Lemosho is a narrow wilderness trail right from the beginning, passing through pristine and remote rainforest with good chances of seeing wildlife. It then crosses the Shira Plateau before joining the Machame Route near the Lava Tower.
Luckily, despite its growing popularity, especially for second time Kilimanjaro climbers, Lemosho sees a very low number of people and truly offers and incredible adventure on the highest peak in Africa, and the highest free standing mountain in the world.
Maasai Wanderings is looking very much forward to providing you with a climb of a lifetime. No previous mountaineering experience is required for this trip.
For those seeking a slightly longer and more immersive ascent, the 4 Days Mount Meru Trekking adventure is ideal for young adults and intrepid travelers eager to conquer Tanzania’s overlooked gem. Starting from lush forests and scaling steep hillsides along the Momella Route, you’ll be accompanied by an armed ranger to the summit of Mount Meru—Africa’s fifth highest peak. The trek is packed with diverse wildlife and culminates in a breathtaking sunrise view. The USP: a gradual, rewarding trek that blends the thrill of high-altitude climbing with the serenity of East Africa’s natural beauty.
Trekking and HikingClimbing
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Lodge, Sleeping Hut
Age Range
10-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Mount Meru, Arusha, Meriakamba H
Mount Meru, Arusha, Meriakamba Hut, Saddle Hut, Kilimanjaro
Rongai route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern section of the mountain, not far from the Kenyan border. It is considered quite remote but has seen a surge in trekkers in recent years. On this route, the drive to the trailhead at Nale Moru is long but the road is tarmac most of the way. With a starting point in Arusha, the routes on the souther or western side are more popular because of accessibility. On this route, we camp at the base of Mawenzi Peak before walking across the Saddle to perch ourselves in the the busy camp of Kibo in readiness for the summit assault.
This route over 7 days allows for an extra night at Mawenzi Tarn with acclimatisation walks during the spare day. Doing this will increase the chance of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro.
If conquering iconic peaks is on your bucket list, the 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro trek via the Lemosho Route is your ticket to adventure. Tailored for young adults with a thirst for challenge, this route is prized for its scenic beauty, lower traffic, and higher summit success rates. Begin your ascent through lush rainforest, traverse the expansive Shira Plateau, and tackle the southern circuit’s dramatic landscapes before descending via the Mweka route. With panoramic mountain vistas at every turn and the guidance of experienced trek leaders, you’ll experience Kilimanjaro’s raw grandeur firsthand. The unique draw: the Lemosho Route’s combination of diverse scenery, optimal acclimatization, and an immersive trekking experience—giving you the best shot at standing on Africa’s roof.
ClimbingTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Age Range
12-75 yrs
Operated in
english, french, german, spanish
Destinations
Kilimanjaro, Mount Kilimanjaro N
Kilimanjaro, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, Mti Mkubwa, Shira, Shira Camp Two, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Hut, Barafu Camp, Moshi
Known as the Whiskey route, the Machame route is now the most popular route on the mountain. Compared with Marangu, the days in Machame are longer and the walks are steeper. The Machame route is considered a difficult route and is better suited for more adventurous folks and those with some hiking or backpacking experience as well as It is for physically fit people with some hiking experience.
The Machame route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends using the Mweka route, rewarding climbers with views of the expansive Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, a climb up the Great Barranco wall, and a traverse underneath Kilimanjaro's southern ice field.
Craving a Kilimanjaro adventure that’s both accessible and awe-inspiring? The Mt. Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 10-day trek kicks off with a high-altitude drop-off at 3,500 meters, easing acclimatization and making the journey milder for families, beginners, and those not keen on strenuous ascents.
Young adults and seasoned trekkers alike will appreciate the Lemosho route’s reputation for premium trekking and breathtaking panoramas, with SUV transfers ensuring a smooth start. The gradual ascent means even teenagers or first-time climbers stand a great chance of reaching Uhuru Peak, all while enjoying the solitude and unspoiled scenery that set Lemosho apart.
What truly distinguishes this trekking tour is its focus on a beginner-friendly experience without sacrificing the thrill of high-altitude achievement. Camp in strategic locations that optimize acclimatization and savor the sense of accomplishment as you progress through Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. If your goal is a successful summit paired with natural beauty and a gentler approach, this is the ideal Kilimanjaro trip for you.