Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route | 6-DayTrekking Journey to Uhuru Peak Overview

The Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route | 6-Day Trekking Journey to Uhuru Peak is one of the most scenic and adventurous ways to reach the highest point in Africa (5,895m). Commonly known as the Whiskey Route, Machame is famous for its dramatic landscapes, varied terrain, and excellent acclimatization profile despite the shorter duration.

This Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route | 6-Day itinerary is ideal for fit adventure travelers seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb, featuring rainforest trails, open moorlands, volcanic ridges, alpine deserts, and an unforgettable sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak.

⭐ Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route | 6-Day Why Choose the Machame Route?

One of the most scenic Kilimanjaro routes

Excellent “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization

Iconic highlights: Lava Tower & Barranco Wall

Fully supported camping trek

High summit success with professional guides

Ideal balance of adventure, scenery & challenge

Detailed 6-Day Machame Route Itinerary

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,640m) → Machame Camp (3,010m)

Trekking Time: 5–7 hours

Vegetation Zone: Rainforest

Begin your trek at Machame Gate, entering lush rainforest rich with wildlife and giant trees. The trail gradually ascends through muddy and root-covered paths before reaching Machame Camp above the forest line.

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

Trekking Time: 4–6 hours

Vegetation Zone: Moorland

Climb out of the forest into open moorlands with giant heather and volcanic landscapes. Cross the scenic Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak.

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

Trekking Time: 6–8 hours

Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

A vital acclimatization day. Trek up to Lava Tower, then descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley filled with giant senecios and dramatic cliffs.

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

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours

Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Climb the famous Barranco Wall, a fun and exciting scramble offering breathtaking views. Continue to Karanga Camp for rest and acclimatization.

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

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours

Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

A short but steep ascent leads to Barafu Camp. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 6: Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Gate

Trekking Time: 10–14 hours

Vegetation Zones: Arctic → Rainforest

Begin the summit push around midnight, reaching Stella Point at sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend via Mweka Route to the park gate, where you receive your summit certificate.

🎒 What’s Included

✔ Kilimanjaro National Park fees

✔ Professional, licensed mountain guides

✔ Porters and cook support

✔ All meals on the mountain

✔ Quality mountain tents & sleeping mats

✔ Oxygen cylinder & first-aid kit

✔ Daily health checks (pulse oximeter)

✔ Summit certificate

✔ Gate transfers (Moshi/Arusha)

❌ What’s Not Included

✖ International flights

✖ Tanzanian visa

✖ Travel insurance

✖ Personal trekking gear

✖ Tips for guides & porters

✖ Extra accommodation before/after climb

✖ Personal expenses (laundry, drinks)

🧭 Who Is This Trek Best For?

Adventurous and fit trekkers

Travelers with limited time (6 days)

Climbers seeking scenic routes

First-time Kilimanjaro climbers with good fitness