The Machame Route is sometimes referred to as the “Whiskey Route” due to its reputation for being a more challenging climb compared to other routes up Mount Kilimanjaro, such as the Marangu Route, which is sometimes referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route”. The Machame Route is said to be more rugged and demanding, requiring a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.
There are a few theories about how the Machame Route earned its nickname. One theory is that it’s because the route is more scenic and adventurous, much like enjoying a glass of whiskey. Another theory is that the route is more demanding and requires more mental toughness, much like drinking whiskey. Regardless of the origin of the nickname, the Machame Route remains a popular choice for adventurous climbers looking for a challenge.
Why is the Machame Route so popular?
Machame route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. There are several reasons why this route is so popular:
- Scenic beauty: Machame route is known for its stunning scenery. Climbers pass through different vegetation zones, including rainforest, heath, and moorland. The route also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and Uhuru Peak.
- High success rate: Machame route has a high success rate of around 85%. This is because the route allows climbers enough time to acclimatize to the altitude, which reduces the chances of altitude sickness.
- Varied terrain: Machame route is known for its varied terrain, which makes the climb more interesting and challenging. Climbers will encounter steep ascents, rocky trails, and boulder fields, which requires a combination of physical and mental endurance.
- Flexibility: Machame route can be completed in 6-7 days, making it a flexible option for climbers who may not have a lot of time to spend on the mountain.
- Availability of campsites: Machame route has several campsites along the way, which means climbers do not have to carry their camping gear. This makes the climb less strenuous and allows climbers to focus on the climb itself.
Overall, the Machame route is a great choice for climbers who want a challenging but rewarding climb up Mount Kilimanjaro.
Ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, by taking on the famed and beautiful “Whiskey Route,” also known as the Machame Route. This climb is well-known for its beautiful scenery, challenging terrain, and greater success rates, making it a great option for climbers seeking a challenging yet fulfilling experience on the Roof of Africa.
Starting on Mount Kilimanjaro’s southwest flank and traveling around its southern circle before reaching the summit, the Machame Route usually takes 6 to 7 days to complete. The route’s difficult terrain and variety of altitudes offer great acclimatization chances, which helps climbers who are trying to summit Uhuru Peak have a better success rate.
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