6 Days Machame Route: The Scenic Trek to Kilimanjaro’s Summit
The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 6-day itinerary offers trekkers a thrilling adventure, blending challenging ascents with breathtaking landscapes.
From lush rainforests to the rugged Shira Plateau, dramatic lava towers, and the iconic Uhuru Peak, the Machame Route showcases Kilimanjaro's diverse beauty. With proper acclimatization built into the itinerary, this trek increases your chances of reaching the summit while offering an unforgettable experience for adventurous hikers.
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Elevation: 1,800m (5,905 ft) to 3,000m (9,842 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Your adventure begins at the Machame Gate, where you’ll complete registration formalities before trekking through the dense montane rainforest. The trail ascends steadily, surrounded by lush greenery and occasional sightings of monkeys and exotic birds.
Arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon, where you'll enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Elevation: 3,000m (9,842 ft) to 3,840m (12,598 ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends into the moorland zone. The landscape transforms into open terrain with stunning views of Kibo Peak and the Shira Plateau.
After a moderate hike, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp, where you can rest and take in the panoramic vistas.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
- Elevation: 3,840m (12,598 ft) to 3,950m (12,959 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
This acclimatization day includes trekking to the Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190 ft) before descending to Barranco Camp.
The hike offers spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and unique rock formations. Although the Lava Tower ascent can be challenging, the descent to lower altitudes at Barranco Camp helps with acclimatization.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp (via Karanga Camp)
- Elevation: 3,950m (12,959 ft) to 4,600m (15,091 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Today’s trek begins with the iconic Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb offering incredible views.
After crossing valleys and ridges, you’ll stop at Karanga Camp for lunch before continuing to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Spend the evening resting and preparing for the final ascent.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,600m (15,091 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) (descent to 3,100m/10,170 ft)
- Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Around midnight, you’ll begin your summit push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The steep ascent passes through Stella Point (5,739m/18,828 ft), where the sun begins to rise, offering breathtaking views.
After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100m (10,170 ft) to 1,800m (5,905 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
On your final day, trek through lush rainforest to the Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive a summit certificate.
Celebrate your incredible achievement with your guide and team before being transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional and certified mountain guides, porters, and cooks
- Transfers to and from the trailhead
- Park entry, camping, and rescue fees
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping pads, chairs, and dining tables)
- Pulse oximeter for daily health monitoring
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
Tour Exclusions:
- Flights to and from Tanzania
- Personal trekking gear (e.g., boots, jackets, sleeping bags)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Personal expenses, such as snacks and drinks
- Additional hotel stays before or after the trek
Contact US Now!
Arusha – Tanzania
+255 682 009 908
info@kiligatesexpedition.com
kiligatesexpedition@gmail.com