6 Days Machame Route

OVERVIEW

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is the second most popular route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is renowned for its diverse scenery, rich landscapes, and rewarding trekking experience. Starting on the southern slopes of the mountain, the route begins at Machame Gate and follows an exciting trail through tropical rainforest, ascending through all major climate zones before reaching the Arctic-like conditions near the summit.

Camps along the route are well positioned to allow for a gradual and effective acclimatization process. On Day 3, the Machame Route joins the Lemosho and Umbwe routes at Barranco Camp, adding to the shared summit journey.

Arrive in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. Later, your guide will provide a full trek briefing and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary mountain gear for the climb.

Day 1 - Machame Gate (1800m) to Machame Camp (2835m)

Distance covered: 11 km
Approximate time taken: 7 hours
Habitat: Montane forest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel around 8:00 am and driven to Machame Gate. Along the way, you will pass coffee and banana plantations cultivated by the local Chagga people. Upon arrival, park registration formalities will be completed before beginning the climb. The trek starts through dense tropical rainforest, gradually ascending to Machame Camp (2835m). A picnic lunch will be enjoyed along the trail. Dinner and overnight at Machame Camp.

Day 2 - Machame Camp (2835m) to Shira Cave Camp (3750m)

Distance covered: 5 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

The hike begins around 8:00 am. You will climb steadily for about an hour to the upper edge of the forest, followed by a gentler ascent through the moorland zone. After a short break and light snacks, the trail continues along a rocky ridge onto the Shira Plateau. From here, you will enjoy views toward the east and the dramatic Western Breach with its glaciers. Overnight at Shira Cave Camp (3750m).

Day 3 - Shira Cave Camp (3750m) to Barranco Camp (3900m)

Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

To support acclimatization, the trek follows the principle of climbing high and sleeping low. The route ascends into the alpine desert to Lava Tower (4600m) before descending to Barranco Camp (3900m). The descent takes approximately 3 hours and offers excellent photo opportunities of the Western Breach and the Barranco Wall. The camp is located in a scenic valley beneath the wall, providing a memorable sunset before dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.

Day 4 - Barranco Camp (3900m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 8 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

Today’s trek begins at Barranco Camp, known for its giant groundsels. You will ascend the famous Barranco Wall, a challenging but non-technical climb over rocky terrain that separates you from the southern slopes of Kibo. After reaching the top, the trail continues to Karanga Camp, where you will stop for lunch and collect your final water supplies before the summit. The journey then continues across the alpine desert to Barafu Camp (Base Camp, 4640m), where preparations for summit night begin.

Day 5 - Barafu Camp (4637m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) then down to Millennium Camp (3950m)

Distance covered: 15 km
Approximate time taken: 12–15 hours
Habitat: Glacier / Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

You will wake up very early, around midnight (00:00), and enjoy light tea with biscuits before beginning the summit ascent. The climb follows steep scree for 4 to 5 hours, gaining significant altitude over a short distance. Although challenging, the views are truly spectacular.

You should reach the crater rim at Stella Point (5756m) just as the first rays of sunrise light up the mountain. From here, it takes approximately one hour to reach Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. After taking photos and celebrating your achievement, you will begin the descent back to Barafu Camp for lunch and a short rest. The trek then continues down to Millennium Camp (3950m), where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 6 - Millennium Camp (3950m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)

Distance covered: 14 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Moorland / Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast and lunch included

After breakfast, you will continue your final descent through the moorland and lush rainforest. The walk from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate takes several hours and is scenic and gentle on the legs. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, park formalities will be completed and you will receive your summit certificates.

A private vehicle will then transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where a warm shower and well-earned rest await. It’s definitely time to celebrate!

Depart Tanzania / Other Destination in Tanzania

Later in the evening or the following day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight home. Alternatively, we can arrange an affordable safari to some of Tanzania’s top wildlife destinations, including Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.

Trek Pricing

Number of Travelers

Price per Person

1 Person

2300 USD

2 - 4 people

2200 USD

5 - 9 people

2160 USD

10+ people

2100 USD

Tipping Guidelines

  • Tips for porters / cooks ($10 – $15 per porter per day). 
  • Tips for the guides ($20 – $25 per person per day or a group amount)

Climbing Cost Includes

Climbing cost excludes

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