The Machame route, also known as the ‘whiskey route’, is one of the seven main routes used to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Why the ‘whiskey route’? Well, it’s known as the whiskey route because it’s one of the tougher climbs, compared to the Marangu route, which is known as the ‘coca-cola route, which is the easiest of all of them. The Machame route is one of the most popular routes, chosen by almost 50% of the hikers that trek Kilimanjaro. This route boasts impressive views and a variety of climates. I chose this route not only because of the impressive views, but also because I could finish the whole hike in a total of six days. Some routes can be done in seven. Experts suggest that a longer ascent will improve your chances of summiting. I felt that six days were more than enough as I had prepared very well for the hike. The trek begins fro Machame gate, which is the southern base of the mountain. The hike begins with a fertile rain forest. The vegetation starts to diminish the higher you start to ascend. After two days, you arrive at the Lava tower, which is about 16000ft, the views are spectacular. From there the route is relatively flat until you reach Uhuru peak, the highest point of Kilimanjaro. The decent is very rapid. You will descend down the Mweka trail, which will take you a day or two, depending on how beat up you are from the summit the night before. The Machame route is 37 miles gate to gate. This may not seem a lot, but remember the first majority of miles are straight up. Most trekker who use Machame are physically fit with hiking experience, but many first time hikers who are moderately fit usually are fine. I recommend this route for hikers who have some hiking experience and who are fairly fit. The views are absolutely spectacular and I definitely recommend this route!!