6 Day Machame Route

6 Day Machame Route – Kilimanjaro Climb Package

The 6 day Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the "Whiskey Route," it’s perfect for those seeking adventure and varied landscapes. With steeper sections and more ups and downs, it offers a more challenging and visually rewarding trek compared to the Marangu Route.

This route allows for better acclimatization with a climb high, sleep low strategy. Though more demanding, it boasts higher success rates and dramatic views throughout—from rainforest to alpine desert and glacier fields.

Climbers scaling Barranco Wall on the Machame Route

At a Glance

  • Duration: 6 Days on the mountain

  • Route Type: Tent camping

  • Start Point: Machame Gate

  • End Point: Mweka Gate

  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

  • Scenery: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers

  • Best For: Adventure seekers, photographers, and climbers wanting high success rates

Detailed Itinerary – 6 Day Machame Route

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Your journey begins at Machame Gate. Hike through lush rainforest, home to wildlife like monkeys and colorful birds. Reach Machame Camp by late afternoon and enjoy your first night under the stars.

  • Elevation Gain: 1,800m to 3,000m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Machame Camp

    • Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

    Trek through heather and moorland zones. The trail climbs steeply, offering great views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,000m to 3,840m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Shira Camp

    • Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

    Ascend to Lava Tower at 4,630m for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This climb high, sleep low day improves adaptation to altitude.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,840m to 4,630m (Lava Tower), then down to 3,960m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
  • Habitat: Semi-desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Barranco Camp

    • Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

    Climb the famous Barranco Wall—a thrilling, non-technical scramble. Cross several valleys before reaching Barafu Camp to rest before summit night.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,960m to 4,673m
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Barafu Camp

    • Day 5: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp

    Start the final ascent around midnight. Pass Stella Point before reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.

  • Elevation Gain: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
  • Descent: Down to 3,100m
  • Distance: 17 km
  • Hiking Time: 12–14 hours total
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Mweka Camp

    • Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

    A short descent through the lush rainforest. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and meet your transfer back to your hotel.

  • Elevation Loss: 3,100m to 1,640m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Breakfast

    • What's Included

    • All Kilimanjaro National Park fees

    • Tent accommodations and camping gear

    • Professional guides, porters, and cook

    • All meals on the mountain

    • Drinking water and hot beverages

    • Rescue fees

    • First-aid kit and oxygen cylinder

    • Pre- and post-trek briefing

    • Transfers to/from Machame Gate

    • Summit certificate (gold for Uhuru, green for Stella Point)

    What's Not Included

    • International flights and visas

    • Travel insurance

    • Tips for crew

    • Personal trekking equipment

    • Pre/post trek accommodation (available on request)

    • Extra snacks and drinks

    • Portable toilet (available at extra cost)

    FAQs – 6 Day Machame Route

    Is the Machame Route difficult?
    Yes. It’s moderately challenging with some steep sections, especially at Barranco Wall and summit night.
    Why choose the 6-day version over 7 days?
    The 6-day trek is faster and cheaper, but offers less acclimatization. Ideal for fit trekkers on a tight schedule.
    Where do we sleep?
    You’ll sleep in tents at designated campsites. All camping gear is provided.
    Is the Barranco Wall dangerous?
    It looks intimidating but is non-technical. It’s a safe and fun scramble with amazing views.
    Do I need prior trekking experience?
    No, but you should be in good physical shape. Training beforehand is recommended.
    What’s the summit success rate?
    About 70–75% for the 6-day itinerary. The 7-day version has a higher rate.
    Is altitude sickness common?
    It can be. Follow your guide's pace, hydrate well, and be honest about symptoms.
    When is the best time to climb?
    January–March and June–October are ideal for dry weather and clear skies.
    What gear do I need?
    Layered clothing, waterproofs, boots, headlamp, and a sleeping bag. Rentals are available.
    Will I get a certificate?
    Yes. A gold certificate for Uhuru Peak and a green one for Stella Point.

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