6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro
6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Overview
The 6 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro at Mount Kilimanjaro, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is among the most popular and highly regarded trekking routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a preferred choice due to its scenic beauty and relatively high summit success rate. This is largely attributed to the route’s topography and structure, which follow a “climb high, sleep low” approach—an important strategy for effective acclimatization.
Beginning on the southwestern side of the mountain, the Machame Route ascends steeply northward, crossing the Shira Plateau and eventually converging with both the Shira and Lemosho routes beyond Shira Cave Camp. While it is possible to complete the Machame Route in a minimum of six days, a seven-day itinerary is strongly recommended. This allows climbers additional time to rest and acclimate properly, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful summit attempt.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,850m)
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a one-hour drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate, where registration and national park formalities are completed. Here, you will meet your dedicated team of porters and guides before commencing the trek.
The trail on this first day ascends gradually through lush, verdant rainforest, offering a rich display of flora and fauna. As this section of the route is less frequented, parts of the path may be slightly overgrown. Additionally, the terrain can often be wet and muddy, requiring sturdy footwear and appropriate trekking gear.
Distance: 10.8 km / 6.7 miles
Trekking Time: Approximately 6 hours
Zone: Rainforest Zone
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp (2,850m) to Shira Camp (3,800m)
Today’s trek begins with a noticeable change in landscape as you ascend into the high moorland zone. The trail offers panoramic views and introduces a more rugged terrain, dramatically altering the character of the trek.
The route traverses the southwestern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, passing beneath the imposing Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach. Although you will reach altitudes of up to 4,600 meters during the day, the itinerary adheres to the important mountaineering principle of “climb high, sleep low”—a strategy designed to enhance acclimatization and support a safer, more successful ascent.
Trekking Time: Approximately 5 hours
Zone: Alpine Moorland Zone
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp (3,800m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
The day’s journey begins with a steady ascent from Shira Camp, continuing through the alpine moorland. As you gradually climb, the terrain becomes more rugged and the vegetation more sparse, marking your transition deeper into the high-altitude environment.
The route leads toward the Lava Tower at an elevation of approximately 4,600 meters, where you will pause for acclimatization before descending again to Barranco Camp. This trek not only supports the “climb high, sleep low” principle but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you may catch a distant glimpse of Mount Meru towering above the plains near Arusha—a rewarding sight for your efforts.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Trekking Time: Approximately 7–8 hours
Zone: Heather and Moorland Zone
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
The day begins with a descent into the base of the Great Barranco, a vast and dramatic ravine. From there, we ascend the impressive Barranco Wall—a steep climb that, while not technical, is physically demanding and requires careful footing. Upon reaching the top, you are rewarded with expansive views of the southeastern slopes of Kibo.
Continuing beneath the striking Heim and Kersten Glaciers, the trail leads to the Karanga Valley. After a steep ascent from the valley floor, we reach Karanga Camp (3,995m), where we pause for lunch and rest.
Following this break, we proceed on a challenging trek to Barafu Camp (4,640m). The trail crosses barren scree slopes, devoid of vegetation, and the increasing altitude makes the climb more strenuous. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, an early dinner is served before climbers retire for rest.
It is essential to stay well-hydrated and conserve energy, as the summit attempt begins between 11:00 PM and 12:00 AM. A few hours of rest are crucial in preparation for the demanding ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Trekking Time: Approximately 7–8 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 16 km / 9.6 miles
Trekking Time: 13–15 hours
Zone: Arctic Summit, Alpine Desert, to Rainforest Zone
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Moshi or Arusha
The final day of the trek is a gentle descent through lush montane rainforest. After approximately 3 to 4 hours, we arrive at Mweka Gate, where climbers complete park formalities and receive official summit certificates—a proud recognition of your achievement. You will then be transferred by vehicle back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Upon arrival, enjoy a much-anticipated hot shower, followed by a well-deserved celebration and relaxation. Overnight stay at your pre-arranged hotel marks the conclusion of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience
No Accommodation
Distance: 10 km / 6.5 miles
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Rainforest Zone
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Cost includes
All transfers
Professional and experienced mountain guide, cook and porters
Rescue fees
Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
Clean purified water
Accommodation before climbing
All entry fees
All meals during your trekking
Large portion of fresh healthy nutritious food nbvc
Cost Excludes
Sleeping bags, bring your own sleeping bag but still you can rent it in Arusha at reasonable
Flight ticket
Gratitude’s for Kilimanjaro climbing crews
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry bills, telephone bills, beverages etc.)
Anything not mentioned above