The optimal 6-day Machame route : The Machame Route, or “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular ways to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Among the six established routes—Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, and Umbwe—each offers a unique adventure. Machame, Marangu, and Umbwe approach from the south, Lemosho and Shira from the west, and Rongai from the north near Kenya.
For optimal acclimatization, breathtaking panoramic views, and a high summit success rate,
Day by day itinerary, The optimal 6-day Machame route 2025/2027
The optimal 6-day Machame route : Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
- Arrival: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfer: To a hotel in Moshi for rest and final preparations.
- Briefing: Meet with your guide and crew for an equipment check and orientation.
- Accommodation: Comfortable lodge or hotel.
- Meals: Dinner (if included in your package).
The optimal 6-day Machame route : Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Starting Elevation: 1,800m (5,905ft)
- Ending Elevation: 2,835m (9,301ft)
- Distance: ~11 km (~7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Terrain: Rainforest
- Highlights: Hike through lush rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife like colobus monkeys.
- Accommodation: Machame Camp (tents).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The optimal 6-day Machame route : Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Starting Elevation: 2,835m (9,301ft)
- Ending Elevation: 3,750m (12,303ft)
- Distance: ~5 km (~3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Terrain: Moorland
- Highlights: Ascend through moorland with stunning views of Kibo peak and the Shira Plateau.
- Accommodation: Shira Camp (tents).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
The optimal 6-day Machame route: Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower, 6-days Machame route 2025/2027
- Starting Elevation: 3,750m (12,303ft)
- Lava Tower: 4,630m (15,190ft)
- Ending Elevation: 3,960m (12,992ft)
- Distance: ~10 km (~6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Terrain: Alpine desert
- Highlights: Acclimatization day. Climb to Lava Tower, then descend to Barranco Camp. Stunning views and the impressive Barranco Wall.
- Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tents).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp via Karanga Camp, 6-days Machame route 2025/2027
- Starting Elevation: 3,960m (12,992ft)
- Ending Elevation: 4,673m (15,331ft)
- Distance: ~9 km (~5.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 8-10 hours
- Terrain: Alpine desert
- Highlights: Scale the Barranco Wall and trek through the Karanga Valley. Reach Barafu Camp, where you’ll rest before the summit attempt.
- Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tents).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp,6-days Machame route 2025/2027
- Starting Elevation: 4,673m (15,331ft)
- Uhuru Peak: 5,895m (19,341ft)
- Ending Elevation: 3,068m (10,065ft)
- Distance: ~17 km (~11 miles) total
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Terrain: Rocky ascent and forest descent
- Summit Highlights: Start at midnight for a challenging climb to Stella Point and onward to Uhuru Peak. Witness sunrise from Africa’s highest point. Descend to Mweka Camp for rest.
- Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tents).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, 6-days Machame route 2025/2027
- Starting Elevation: 3,068m (10,065ft)
- Ending Elevation: 1,640m (5,380ft)
- Distance: ~10 km (~6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Terrain: Rainforest
- Highlights: A relaxing descent through lush rainforest. Collect your summit certificates at Mweka Gate and celebrate your achievement.
- Transfer: Back to Moshi for a well-earned rest.
- Accommodation: Hotel or lodge (optional).
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Key Tips, 6-days Machame route 2025/2027
- Acclimatization: This route’s “climb high, sleep low” profile is excellent for reducing altitude sickness risks.
- Gear Checklist: Include layered clothing, sturdy boots, trekking poles, and headlamps for the summit night.
- Best Seasons: January-March and June-October for the best weather.
- Costs: Includes park fees, guide/porter wages, meals, and camping equipment. Tips for guides and porters are customary.
Includes: 6-days Machame route 2025/2027
Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
Airport Transfers
Meals according to the itinerary
Drinking water and Full Board Meals
All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
Gate Transfers
Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
Quality Imported Equipments
Excludes: 6-days Machame route 2025/2027
Flights
Visa fees
Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation
Gamow Bag
Medication
Tips for porters and mountain crew (20% Industry Standard Recommended)
Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain $150 per room
