6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb Scenic Path to Africa’s Roof

6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb Overview

The 6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb is widely regarded as one of the best routes to climb Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers stunning scenery, excellent acclimatization, and a high summit success rate. Over six days, trekkers experience a journey through lush rainforests, alpine moorlands, volcanic ridges, and the barren high desert, culminating in the sunrise at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).

This route is perfect for adventurers seeking a well-paced, safe, and social climb with like-minded trekkers, guided by professional Tanzanian mountain guides and supported by a full crew of porters and a chef.

Detailed 6-Day Machame route Itinerary

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

Enter Kilimanjaro through the lush rainforest, rich in wildlife and mossy trees. The trail ascends gradually, offering a gentle introduction to altitude. Camp at Machame Camp and enjoy your first mountain sunset.

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

Climb above the forest into moorland and volcanic plains. Arrive at the Shira Plateau, an ancient lava plateau offering expansive mountain views and a perfect spot for acclimatization.

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

Ascend to Lava Tower for high-altitude acclimatization. After lunch, descend into the Barranco Valley, famous for its giant groundsels and dramatic cliffs. Overnight at Barranco Camp.

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

Climb the famous Barranco Wall, then traverse ridges to Karanga Valley. Continue to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. Early dinner and rest in preparation for midnight ascent.

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

Start at midnight for the final ascent. Reach Stella Point at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 6 – Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Arusha/Moshi (3,100 m → 1,640 m)

Descend gently through the rainforest, arriving at Mweka Gate to receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha or Moshi to conclude the adventure.

Inclusions

Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees

Professional mountain guides, porters, and chef

All meals on the mountain

Purified drinking water

Camping equipment (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, & chef

Alcoholic drinks & soft drinks

Personal expenses & optional upgrades