Mt Kilimanjaro Trek - Machame Route (8 Days) - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Machame Route like for trekking?

  The Machame Route is possibly the most scenic path to Mt. Kilimanjaro's summit, offering magnificent forests, moorland, and high-alpine deserts with amazing views of ice fields. It is known as the "Whiskey Route" due to its tougher challenge.

• What is the physical rating for this trek?

  The trek has a physical rating of 5. It is a major challenge, and the rigor of altitude should not be underestimated. Participants should be mentally and physically prepared, with regular aerobic exercise recommended.

• What are the age requirements for participants?

  The minimum age for participants is 12, and the maximum age is 100.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?

  The tour includes two nights in simple hotels and five nights of full-service alpine camping. While camping, tents are pitched, meals are prepared, and washing up is handled by the staff. Campsites are basic, without electricity or shower facilities, featuring long drop latrines. Warm water for washing is provided daily.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners. All meals while trekking on the mountain are prepared from fresh local produce. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be accommodated if specified prior to arrival.

• Is drinking water provided during the trek?

  On day 2, you should bring bottled water from the hotel for your first day's hike. Beyond that, purified (filtered) mountain water is provided for the duration of the hike. For Barafu Camp, porters carry water for all uses.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size ranges from a minimum of 1 person to a maximum of 12 people.

• Who will be leading and supporting the trek?

  A certified mountain guide will lead the trek, supported by an assistant guide (for groups of more than one person), a cook, and a team of porters. Guides are trained in mountain guiding, first aid, emergency response, and local flora/fauna.

• What are the porters' responsibilities and luggage limits?

  Porters assist in carrying your main bag and team gear. Each hiker's belongings carried by a porter should not exceed 15kg, plus a 5kg personal day-pack. Porters carry a maximum of 20kg in total, strictly enforced by the Kilimanjaro Park authority.

• What health precautions and information should I be aware of?

  It is recommended to consult your physician or a travel clinic at least one month before departure for vaccinations and health information. A basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers are essential. You should inform your tour leader of any medical conditions. Malaria prophylaxis may be needed, and a Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling from an endemic country.

• How is altitude sickness managed on the trek?

  Mild altitude sickness is common. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and light-headedness. If severe symptoms occur, immediate descent of 1,500 to 2,000 feet is advised until symptoms improve. Do not ascend further if you are feeling unwell due to altitude sickness. Consultation with a doctor about managing altitude sickness medication is recommended.

• Is special insurance recommended for this high-altitude trek?

  Yes, it is strongly recommended to verify that your insurance policy covers emergency rescue services, including helicopter rescues, above 6,000m, as Uhuru Peak is nearly 6,000 meters above sea level.