Epic 6-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route Climb (2026–2027)

6-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route Climb Overview

Experience the iconic 6-Day Machame Route — one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and effective paths to the summit. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” this climb balances adventure, safety, and acclimatization, providing trekkers with a high chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Over six days, trekkers move through lush rainforests, giant heather zones, alpine deserts, and finally the glacier-capped summit, all while supported by professional guides, porters, and a chef.

Perfect for first-time and experienced climbers alike, this 2026–2027 departure combines stunning landscapes, expert support, and well-paced daily hikes, making it a complete Kilimanjaro climbing experience.

Detailed 6-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route Climb Itinerary

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

Start at Machame Gate, register permits, and meet your mountain crew. Hike through dense rainforest with waterfalls, wildlife, and moss-draped trees. Arrive at Machame Camp, enjoy dinner, and rest under the stars.

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

Climb out of the forest into heather and moorland. Traverse rocky paths and lava ridges until you reach the Shira Plateau, offering expansive views and ideal acclimatization. Camp overnight.

Day 3 – Shira Plateau → Lava Tower → Barranco Camp (3,800 m → 4,630 m → 3,960 m)

Ascend to Lava Tower, allowing your body to acclimatize at high altitude. After lunch, descend into Barranco Valley, surrounded by cliffs and giant groundsels. Camp at Barranco.

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

Climb the famous Barranco Wall, then traverse ridges into Karanga Valley. Continue to Barafu Camp, the summit base. Dinner and early rest in preparation for the midnight ascent.

Day 5 – Summit Day: Barafu → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp (4,640 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m)

Start just before midnight, climbing steep volcanic scree to Stella Point at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak. Celebrate, descend to Barafu for rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for the night.

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

Descend gently through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate, then transfer back to Arusha or Moshi, marking the completion of your climb.

Inclusions

Kilimanjaro park, camping & rescue fees

Licensed mountain guides, porters & cook

All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Boiled/purified drinking water

Camping tents, sleeping mats, dining tent

Summit certificate

Safety gear: pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen

Transfers: Moshi/Arusha ⇄ Machame Gate

Exclusions

International & domestic flights

Tanzanian visa

Pre/post trek hotels

Personal climbing gear (sleeping bag, boots, trekking clothes)

Travel insurance (mandatory)

Tips for guides, porters & chef

Soft drinks or alcohol

Optional upgrades (private tents, extra acclimatization day)