6 Days Machame Trek
Trekking Overview
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route”, is one of the most scenic and popular paths to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. It offers a gradual acclimatization process, diverse landscapes, and stunning views. The 6-day trek is physically demanding, but it provides excellent acclimatization opportunities through its climb high, sleep low strategy. Unlike the Marangu Route, this trek requires camping, making it a more immersive wilderness experience.
Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
The trek begins at Machame Gate (1,800m), where registration is completed before entering Kilimanjaro National Park. The trail starts with a gradual ascent through the dense rainforest, where trekkers may encounter blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. The path can be muddy and slippery, so trekking poles and proper footwear are recommended. After 5 to 7 hours of trekking, climbers arrive at Machame Camp (2,835m) for the first night in tents.- Distance: ~11 km (~6.8 mi)
- Time: 5–7 Hours
- Elevation: 1,035m (3,396 ft)
- Highlights: Rainforest zone, lush vegetation, wildlife.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 2: Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Hut
The day begins with a steep ascent as the rainforest transitions into the moorland zone, where the vegetation becomes more sparse. Trekkers climb over rocky ridges and volcanic formations, offering spectacular views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau. By midday, the group reaches Shira Camp (3,750m), an open space with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. The afternoon is spent resting and acclimatizing to the higher altitude.- Distance: ~5 km (~3.1 miles)
- Time: 4–6 Hours
- Elevation: 915m (3,002 ft)
- Highlights: Moorland zone, scenic views of Shira Plateau
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower, then to Barranco Camp
This day follows the “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization strategy. The trail ascends towards Lava Tower (4,630m), a volcanic rock formation where trekkers rest and enjoy lunch. This high-altitude exposure helps the body adjust to lower oxygen levels. After spending time at Lava Tower, the trail descends into the beautiful Barranco Valley (3,900m), passing through unique Senecio plants. Trekkers arrive at Barranco Camp, known for its stunning sunset views and towering cliffs.- Distance: ~10 km (~8 miles)
- Time: 6–8 Hours
- Elevation: 12,500ft → 13,000ft (with a climb to 15,190ft at Lava Tower)
- Highlights: Semi-Desert.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 4: From Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
After breakfast, the journey begins with a steep climb up the Barranco Wall, requiring some light rock scrambling. The trail continues through the Karanga Valley, where a short break is taken. Moving onward, the trek connects with the Mweka Trail and ascends towards Barafu Camp (15,000ft). This marks the completion of the Southern Circuit, providing panoramic views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. At Barafu, climbers rest, eat, and prepare for the final summit attempt.- Distance: ~9 km (5.6 mi)
- Time: 8–10 Hours
- Elevation: 773m (2,537 ft)
- Highlights: Alpine Desert.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then down to Mweka Camp
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. The summit push begins at midnight, climbing in the dark under freezing temperatures. The trail passes Stella Point (5,756m) before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Witnessing the sunrise over the glaciers is a truly unforgettable moment. After celebrating and taking photos, trekkers descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for the night.- Distance: ~17 km (~10.6 mi)
- Time: 12–16 Hours
- Elevation: 2,795m (9,169 ft)
- Highlights: Summit sunrise, glaciers, breathtaking views.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day is a gradual descent through the tropical rainforest, where trekkers may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Upon reaching Mweka Gate (1,640m), climbers receive summit certificates before being transported back to Moshi, where they can enjoy a hot shower and well-deserved rest.- Distance: ~10 km (~6.2 mi)
- Time: ~5 Hours
- Elevation: 1,460m (4,790 ft)
- Highlights: Lush rainforest, Kilimanjaro National Park exit.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Trek Highlights
Included Packages
Excluded Packages
Packing List
Best Time to Trek
The dry season (June–October and January–February) offers clear skies and stable weather, making it the best time to hike. Avoid the rainy season (March–May and November–December).
Ensure you're fully equipped for the adventure. Key items include:
