6-Day Machame Route – The Path to Summit Kilimanjaro Overview

The 6-Day Machame Route is widely recognized as the most scenic and strategic path to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” Machame combines stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and smart acclimatization to give climbers one of the best chances of reaching the roof of Africa.

Over six days, climbers traverse lush rainforests, giant heather zones, volcanic ridges, and alpine deserts, culminating in a sunrise summit at 5,895 meters. The route is designed to maximize altitude adaptation, reduce fatigue, and provide a safe, unforgettable experience, all guided by expert Tanzanian mountain crews.

Whether you are a first-time high-altitude trekker or an experienced adventurer, the Machame Route offers thrilling features like the Barranco Wall, Lava Tower, and Shira Plateau, making it both adventurous and rewarding.

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Detailed 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Machame Gate → Machame Camp (1,640 m → 2,835 m)

Start through the rainforest, rich in birds and wildlife. Camp at Machame with spectacular mountain views.

Day 2 – Machame Camp → Shira Plateau (2,835 m → 3,800+ m)

Climb above the forest into moorland and volcanic plains. Shira Camp offers expansive plateau views.

Day 3 – Shira Plateau → Lava Tower (4,630 m) → Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

Acclimatization day. Ascend Lava Tower, descend into Barranco Valley with giant groundsels and cliffs.

Day 4 – Barranco Wall → Karanga Valley → Barafu Camp (3,960 m → 4,640 m)

Scramble the Barranco Wall and hike through ridges to Barafu, your summit base.

Day 5 – Summit Day: Barafu → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Mweka Camp (3,100 m)

Midnight ascent to Stella Point, then reach Uhuru Peak for sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp.

Day 6 – Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Arusha/Moshi

Walk through forest to Mweka Gate and receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha/Moshi.

Inclusions

Park fees, rescue & camping fees

Licensed mountain guides & porters

All meals on the mountain

Purified drinking water

Camping tents, mattresses, dining tent

Summit certificate

Safety monitoring & emergency oxygen

Transfers: Arusha/Moshi ⇄ Machame Gate

Exclusions

International & domestic flights

Tanzanian visa

Hotels before/after climb

Personal gear (sleeping bag, clothing, boots)

Travel insurance (mandatory)

Tips for guides & porters

Alcoholic drinks or soft drinks

Personal expenses & optional upgrades

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