Machame is the most-booked route on Kilimanjaro, and for good reason: it is more scenic than Marangu, camps rather than sleeping in huts, and its extra day over the Marangu route noticeably improves acclimatisation and summit success.
It is also harder on the body than Marangu — more elevation gain per day and a longer overall distance — which is part of why it is nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” (against the gentler “Coca-Cola” Marangu). For most reasonably fit trekkers it remains very achievable; it simply isn’t the easiest option on the mountain.
As with every route, park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, guide and porter wages, meals, and group equipment should all be included in the quoted price.
Pricing by comfort level
Best season January–mid-March, June–October
$2,000 per person
Per person, land only — international flights not included. Final pricing depends on your dates and group size; ask us and we will quote exactly.
Highlights, up close
The mountain
- Best months January–mid-March, June–October
Before you travel What to carry, health precautions & emergency numbers Packing list, vaccinations, and who to call if you need help.
What to carry
- Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, brown) — avoid bright white, black and blue, which attract tsetse flies
- A warm layer or fleece — early-morning game drives and the Ngorongoro rim are cold even on the equator
- Wide-brimmed hat and polarised sunglasses
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
- Insect repellent (DEET-based, for dusk and dawn)
- Binoculars — one pair per person makes a real difference
- A power bank and universal adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style Type G plugs)
- A soft-sided duffel bag rather than a hard suitcase, for light-aircraft and 4x4 luggage limits
- A basic personal first-aid kit and any personal medication in hand luggage
- Cash in US dollars (2013 or newer notes) for tips and small purchases
Health precautions
Malaria
Northern Tanzania is a malaria risk area. Speak to your doctor or a travel clinic about antimalarial medication well before you travel, and use insect repellent and cover up at dusk and dawn regardless.
Yellow fever certificate
Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from (or have transited more than 12 hours through) a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. If that applies to your routing, carry your International Certificate of Vaccination.
Altitude
The Ngorongoro Crater rim sits above 2,200 m and Kilimanjaro/Meru climbs go much higher — mild headaches or breathlessness are common at altitude. Drink plenty of water, ascend gradually where you can, and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
Sun and hydration
The equatorial sun is stronger than it feels in the open-sided safari vehicles. Drink more water than you think you need, and reapply sunscreen through the day.
Routine vaccinations and travel insurance
Make sure routine vaccinations are up to date, and take out travel insurance that explicitly covers emergency medical evacuation — the parks are remote, and evacuation by light aircraft is the standard response to a serious medical issue.
General guidance only, not personal medical advice — please confirm requirements and recommendations with your own doctor or a travel clinic before you go.
Emergency numbers
Worth saving to your phone before you travel.
- Chanua Africa Safaris (24/7 on safari) +255 702 345 991
- Tanzania Police (emergency) 112
- Ambulance 115
- AMREF Flying Doctors (air evacuation) +255 683 116 000