6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Machame Route
The Machame Route, also known as the Whiskey Route, is one of the most scenic and popular trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a great acclimatization profile and stunning landscapes, passing through rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the summit.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Start your trek at Machame Gate, where you'll register with the park authorities. The hike begins through a dense rainforest, with chances to spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Arrive at Machame Camp, your first overnight stop.
Day 2: Machame Camp (3,000m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend into the moorland zone, where the landscape becomes more open with stunning views of Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira Camp, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.
Day 3: Shira Camp (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
This day is crucial for acclimatization. Hike to Lava Tower (4,630m), a high-altitude point, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m). This "climb high, sleep low" strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The day starts with the famous Barranco Wall, a fun and challenging climb that rewards you with stunning panoramic views. The hike continues through valleys and ridges, reaching Karanga Camp, the last water point before the summit.
Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
A steep climb leads you to Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit push. Rest early, as the summit trek begins around midnight.
Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Midnight Start: Begin the summit push in the dark, using headlamps. Hike through Stella Point (5,739m) before reaching the Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa!
Descend: After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for the final overnight stay.
End of Trek:
On the following morning, descend to Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate before returning to Moshi or Arusha.
Trip Inclusions:
✅ Park fees & permits
✅ Professional guides, porters & cook
✅ Meals & drinking water
✅ Camping equipment
Trip Exclusions:
❌ Personal gear (e.g., sleeping bags, trekking poles)
❌ Tips for guides & porters
❌ Travel insurance
PHOTOS (1)
