Best Complete 6-Day Machame Route Climb-Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro

6-Day Machame Route Climb Overview

The Complete 6-Day Machame Route Climb is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m)—Africa’s tallest peak and the world’s highest free-standing mountain. Known as the “Whiskey Route”, Machame offers epic landscapes, diverse ecological zones, and a more adventurous approach than the easier Marangu Route.

Over six days, you trek through lush rainforest, cross high moorlands, climb the dramatic Barranco Wall, traverse alpine deserts, and finally ascend to the icy slopes of Kibo to reach Uhuru Peak, the iconic summit. This 6-day version is designed for trekkers who want a challenging, fast ascent with unbeatable scenery.

Whether you’re a first-time high-altitude climber or an adventure seeker, the Machame Route provides the perfect balance of difficulty, acclimatization, and natural beauty.

Full 6-Day Machame Route Climb Itinerary

Day 1: Moshi → Machame Gate → Machame Camp (3,010m)

Trekking Time: 5–7 hours

Distance: ~11 km

Habitat: Rainforest

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, where your team handles registration, gear checks, and park procedures.

The trek begins in the rainforest—the wettest, greenest zone of the mountain. Expect muddy trails, ancient trees draped in moss, and frequent sightings of blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

The hike is steady but manageable as you climb to Machame Camp, located above the forest canopy.

Dinner & overnight at Machame Camp.

Day 2: Machame Camp → Shira Plateau → Shira Camp (3,840m)

Trekking Time: 4–6 hours

Distance: ~5 km

Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek begins with a steep climb that quickly rewards you with expansive views. The landscape transitions from forest to moorland, with volcanic rock formations and hardy plants like giant heathers.

You cross the stunning Shira Plateau, one of the oldest calderas on Kilimanjaro, formed by ancient lava flows.

Arrive at Shira Camp, an open site offering sweeping views of Kibo Peak and Mt. Meru on clear evenings.

Overnight at Shira Camp.

Day 3: Shira Camp → Lava Tower (4,630m) → Barranco Camp (3,976m)

Trekking Time: 6–8 hours

Distance: ~10 km

Habitat: Alpine Desert

This important acclimatization day follows the principle: “climb high, sleep low.”

You ascend gradually toward the iconic Lava Tower, a 300 ft (90m) volcanic formation standing at 4,630m.

You will feel the effects of altitude here—short breathing, slower pace—yet the views are incredible.

After lunch at Lava Tower, you descend into the lush Barranco Valley, surrounded by surreal giant groundsels (Dendrosenecio) and steep cliffs.

Reach Barranco Camp, one of the most picturesque campsites on Kilimanjaro, nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall.

Overnight at Barranco Camp.

Day 4: Barranco Camp → Barranco Wall → Karanga Camp (3,995m)

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours

Distance: ~5 km

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Your morning begins with the exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall—a rocky scramble requiring hands-on climbing but safe and non-technical.

At the top (4,200m), you’re rewarded with jaw-dropping views of glaciers and the vast plains below.

The trail continues with a series of ups and downs across ridges and dry valleys before reaching Karanga Camp, an essential acclimatization stop.

Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the final ascent to Barafu Camp tomorrow.

Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Day 5: Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp (4,673m)

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours

Distance: ~4 km

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek leads you steadily upward to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt.

The landscape becomes stark—cold winds, loose gravel, and a dramatic ridge line leading to the campsite.

After arriving early, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch, rest, and re-check your summit gear (headlamp, snacks, extra layers).

Dinner is served early, and you go to sleep by 18:00 because your summit push begins at midnight.

Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Day 6: Midnight Summit Attempt

Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Gate → Moshi**

Total Trekking Time: 10–14 hours

Distance: 16–20 km

Habitats: Arctic → Alpine Desert → Rainforest

01:00 – Begin Summit Push

In the silence of the night, under a sky full of stars, you begin the steepest and most emotional part of the entire journey.

Step by step (“pole pole”), you ascend through switchbacks toward Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim. Reaching Stella at sunrise is one of the most unforgettable sights on earth.

A final gentle walk along the crater edge leads you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Celebrate, take photos, and enjoy the sweeping glacier views.

Descent to Mweka Gate

After the summit, descend to Barafu Camp for a short break and lunch.

Then continue down to Mweka Gate through moorland and lush rainforest.

At the gate, you receive your Kilimanjaro Certificate, then transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower and a well-earned rest.

Why the Machame Route Is Special

One of the most scenic routes on Kilimanjaro

Excellent acclimatization opportunities

Features the iconic Barranco Wall

Higher summit success rate than the Marangu Route (for 6 days)

Rich ecological variety across five climate zones

A perfect mix of adventure, challenge, and reward

✔️ Inclusions

Park Fees & Logistics

Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees

Camping fees

Rescue fees

Professional mountain guides

Assistant guides

Porters and mountain chef

All government taxes

All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables)

First aid kit + oxygen cylinder

Round-trip transfers: Moshi ↔ Machame Gate

Accommodation & Meals

Mountain camping accommodation

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

Clean drinking water

Dining tent for all meals

Support

Daily health checkups (oxygen level & pulse)

Emergency evacuation to the gate

Summit certificate

❌ Exclusions

International & domestic flights

Tanzanian visa fees

Tips for guides, porters, and cook

Travel & medical insurance (mandatory)

Personal climbing gear (sleeping bag, boots, poles, etc.)

Extra snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol

Hotel accommodation in Moshi (unless added separately)

Personal expenses (laundry, charging, souvenirs)

Portable flush toilet (optional upgrade)