The 6 days Machame route is one of the most popular and scenic ways up Kilimanjaro, with rainforest, the Shira Plateau and the Southern Circuit. Seven days is recommended for better acclimatization.
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The 6 days Machame route, often called the Whiskey Route, is one of the most popular and scenic ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. In addition, it is known for its challenging terrain and dramatic landscapes, and it suits adventurous trekkers. In addition, the trail starts at Machame Gate on the southern base of the mountain, winds through lush rainforest, climbs to the Shira Plateau and follows the Southern Circuit, with sweeping views from many angles. Later, you sleep in tents and walk steeper, longer trails than on the Marangu Route. The trek usually takes six to seven days, and seven days is recommended for better acclimatization. Next, you approach the summit from the east via Barafu Camp and descend by the Mweka Route. Request a quote for this 6 days Machame route and we will adapt it to your dates and group size.
Locations are approximate and shown for orientation. Your exact route may vary slightly with conditions.
Rainforest, moorland, semi-desert and alpine desert
Lava Tower and Barranco Camp on day three
Midnight start via Stella Point to Uhuru Peak
Shira Plateau, Southern Circuit and Barranco Wall
Day by Day Plan
Day00If you have booked the optional airport transfer, we pick you up from Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport and take you to your hotel in Moshi. Plan to arrive at least one day before the trek. Today you have the pre-trek briefing at your hotel, and we review your equipment and rent any gear you need.
Day01The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate takes about 45 minutes and passes through Machame village on the lower slopes of the mountain. From the gate you walk through the rainforest on a winding trail up a ridge. In addition, the trail can be muddy and slippery here, so gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea. A short walk further brings you to Machame Camp.
Highlight: Walk through the rainforest on the lower slopes.
Day02After breakfast you leave the rainforest and follow a rising path across the valley along a steep rocky ridge. The route then turns west onto a river gorge until you reach Shira Camp.
Day03From the Shira Plateau you continue east up a ridge, past the junction towards Kibo, then south-east to the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth”, at 4,650 m. Shortly after the tower you pass the second junction, which goes to the Arrow Glacier. You then descend to Barranco Camp. You end the day at about the same height as you started, but this day is very important for acclimatization and prepares your body for summit day.
Highlight: Lava Tower, the Shark’s Tooth, at 4,650 m.
Day04After breakfast you leave Barranco and climb a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall (4,250 m), then cross the Karanga Valley (4,050 m) to the junction with the Mweka Trail. Then, you continue up to Barafu Camp. The Southern Circuit is now complete, and it shows the summit from many different angles. Later, you make camp here with the summit in view.
Highlight: Climb the Barranco Wall and finish the Southern Circuit.
Day05Between midnight and 2 am you continue towards the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Next, you head north-west and climb heavy scree to Stella Point on the crater rim. Also, this is the hardest part of the trek, both mentally and physically. At Stella Point you rest briefly and are rewarded with a sunrise; faster hikers may see it from the summit. From Stella Point you may meet snow all the way on the 1-hour climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro and in Africa. From the summit you descend straight down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles help on the loose gravel. Then, you enjoy your last evening on the mountain at Mweka Camp.
Highlight: Stand on Uhuru Peak, 5,895 m, the highest point in Africa.
Day06After breakfast you continue the descent to Mweka Park Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. The lower slopes can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles help. Shorts and a t-shirt are usually enough, but keep rain gear and warmer clothes handy. Our vehicle meets you at Mweka Gate and drives you back to your hotel in Moshi, about 60 minutes.
Depart←After a well-earned night of rest, we say goodbye. If you have arranged airport transfers with us, or a safari or Zanzibar trip, we collect you in the morning for your onward journey.
Get a personalized price for this 6 Days Machame Route climb. Your final cost depends on your travel dates, group size and any extra nights or gear rental.
Fast reply from our safari team
Final price depends on your travel dates, group size and accommodation preferences.
This Machame Route climb can be adapted to your dates, fitness and group size. You can ask for extra nights in Moshi, a longer 7-day plan for better acclimatization, or private gear rental. Prepare with our Kilimanjaro trekking guide for first-timers, trekking checklist, Trekking FAQs and quality gear rental. See what past travelers say about us on SafariBookings, TripAdvisor and Google reviews, or read our customer reviews page.
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