6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route Trek
The Machame route, often referred to as the Whiskey Route, is a classic Kilimanjaro trail and one of the most popular routes for climbing the mountain. Organizing numerous expeditions annually along this path, it provides a beautiful journey starting in a lush tropical forest. The Machame route is available in 6- and 7-day variations, with the latter offering better acclimatization and summit success rates. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, the Machame 7 route offers stunning views, traversing all five climatic zones of Kilimanjaro and featuring highlights like the Barranco Wall and unique Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants found exclusively in this region.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a representative will meet you for a transfer to the designated hotel. The hotel provides essential amenities, including comfortable rooms, hot water, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, a briefing with the tour managers will prepare you for the upcoming climb.
Itinerary
- Day 0: Arrival
- Day 1: Trekking From Machame Gate To Machame Camp
- Day 2: Trekking From Machame Camp To Shira Camp
- Day 3: Trekking From Shira Camp To The Lava Tower And Descent To Barranco Camp
- Day 4: Trekking From Barranco Camp To Barafu Camp
- Day 5: Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Millennium Camp
- Day 6: Descent From Millennium Camp To Mweka Gate
Day by Day
Day 1: Trekking From Machame Gate To Machame Camp
A guide and mountain support crew will meet you at the hotel in the morning for a briefing before traveling to Kilimanjaro National Park’s Machame Gate. After obtaining climbing permits, the group will begin the trek to Machame Camp, passing through the rainforest where rain showers are likely. Given the altitude, it is essential to abstain from alcohol and caffeine, stay hydrated, and consider preventive measures for altitude sickness. Pay attention to symptoms, and notify your guide if any discomfort arises.
Day 2: Trekking From Machame Camp To Shira Camp
Following breakfast, you’ll trek to the second high-altitude camp, Shira Camp, transitioning from the rainforest to unveil captivating views of the Shira Plateau. While the trek is not overly challenging, altitude changes may be felt, emphasizing the importance of pacing. After reaching Shira Camp, enjoy lunch and rest before an acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower Camp, gaining 400 m in altitude. Taking these acclimatization hikes seriously enhances your chances of summiting Kilimanjaro successfully and mitigates altitude sickness consequences.
Day 3: Trekking From Shira Camp To The Lava Tower And Descent To Barranco Camp
Following breakfast, proceed towards the crucial point of the route, Lava Tower (4,600 m /15,088 f), encountering various ascents and descents. The trek involves challenging sections, and discomfort may be experienced, but spending 1–2 hours here aids in acclimatization. Enjoy lunch atop Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp, where the imposing Barranco Wall becomes a notable feature. Although you’ll climb it the next day, rest assured, the hiking trail is straightforward and not daunting.
Day 4: Trekking From Barranco Camp To Barafu Camp
After an early breakfast, ascend Barranco Wall to avoid crowds and enjoy a straightforward climb lasting about an hour. Take a break at the top for photos with Kibo volcano as a backdrop. The tougher hike to Karanga Camp follows, with expertly paced ascents and descents. Enjoy a warm lunch upon arrival. After a brief rest, head to Barafu Camp for a hot dinner. Spend the rest of the day resting and sleeping in preparation for the night summit.
Day 5: Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Millennium Camp
Starting the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m /19,336 f) from Barafu Camp at night, the climb is technically straightforward, yet the challenge lies in the high altitude making routine physical activities demanding. With a personal guide for each pair, the ascent is closely monitored. After reaching Uhuru Peak, you can descend to the nearest glacier before a 2-hour rest at Barafu Camp, followed by the descent to Millennium Camp.
NOTE: 90% of accidents happen during the descent; toe damage risk is high, so pay attention to your feet.
Day 6: Descent From Millennium Camp To Mweka Gate
Situated in a tropical rainforest, Millennium Camp offers a refreshing start after conquering the summit. Following a warm breakfast, the journey continues to the park’s exit, Mweka Gate. At the gate, the group gathers for congratulations, an opportunity to share climb experiences in the guestbook, and finally, receiving commemorative certificates in our office before a transfer back to the hotel.
Tour Includes
- All Transfers
- Hotel Accommodation Before and After the Hike
- Camping Equipment
- Meals on the Hike
- Professional Guides and Porters
- Oxygen Tanks
- GPS Trackers
- Medical Check-ups, Fully-loaded Medical Kits, and In-company Doctor
- All Park Fees and Taxes
- Dedicated Support Team
- Innovative and User-friendly Travel Planning Portal
- Safe Room and Storage Room
- Leave No Trace Adventure
- Impactful Change for Local Communities
Tour Excludes
- International Flights
- Tips to the Climbing Crew
- Visa Fee
- Personal Gear Rentals
- Single Supplement (If applicable)
- Travel Insurance
- Portable Toilet
- Lunch and Dinner in the Hotel
