6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025 Nicknamed the “Whiskey” route because the route is popularized as somewhat difficult and more expensive than Marangu route. On an overall comparison of the routes to scale Kilimanjaro, this is one of the best routes to take, both in terms of acclimatization and cost. The Machame route is considered a difficult route, and is better suited for more adventurous trekkers and those with some hiking or backpacking experience.
6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025/2026 is scenically beautiful and varied. However, due to its popularity there are increased numbers of trekkers, it loses some of its splendour. The Machame route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends using the Mweka route, rewarding climbers with views of the expansive Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, a climb up the Great Barranco wall, and a traverse underneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field.
In certain sections this route is steeper than the Marangu and Rongai routes and physically more demanding but is easier overall. Great for acclimatization with lots of walk high, sleep low opportunities.
Day-by-Day 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025 Breakdown
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025
Altitude: 1,800m (5,906ft) to 3,000m (9,840ft)
Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Highlights: Begin your adventure at Machame Gate, trek through lush rainforests, and enjoy your first night at Machame Camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025/2026
Altitude: 3,000m (9,840ft) to 3,840m (12,600ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Highlights: Enjoy an easier day to acclimatize while exploring the moorland and vast landscapes. Arrive at Shira Camp with great views of the mountain.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
Altitude: 3,840m (12,600ft) to 3,950m (12,960ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Highlights: Trek through the alpine desert, passing unique rock formations. The Barranco Wall will challenge you, but it’s rewarding with stunning views of Kibo Peak.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Altitude: 3,950m (12,960ft) to 4,035m (13,267ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Highlights: After climbing the Barranco Wall, the trek becomes more relaxed. You’ll have time to acclimatize at Karanga Camp, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025/2026
Altitude: 4,035m (13,267ft) to 4,673m (15,331ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Highlights: The trek to Barafu Camp is short but crucial for your acclimatization. Once there, rest, hydrate, and get ready for the summit attempt.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit and Mweka Camp, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025/2026
Altitude: 4,673m (15,331ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,080m (10,100ft)
Distance: 13 km (8 miles)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic Zone (summit)
Highlights: The summit day starts early in the morning, with a challenging climb to Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit and soaking in the views, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Departure
Altitude: 3,080m (10,100ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Highlights: The final descent takes you through the rainforest back to Mweka Gate. After reaching the gate, you’ll be transferred back to the hotel for a relaxing evening. Key Highlights of the Machame Route Variety of Ecosystems: From lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glaciers.
Gradual Acclimatization: This route allows time for acclimatization, improving summit chances. Scenic Views: Constantly changing scenery and panoramic views, including iconic Kibo Peak and the glaciers. Challenging and Rewarding: The Machame Route is a tough climb, but the payoff at the summit is incredible.
Inclusions, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025/2026
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Clean, purified drinking water
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
All meals while on the Mountain
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Sleeping Mattress
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
Exclusions, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Machame Route 2025/2026
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Tanzania Visa
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
Tips and gratuities
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Hotel (available as an optional addon)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)