6 Days Machame Route – Kilimanjaro Climb
The Machame Route, also called the Whiskey Route, is one of the most popular and scenic ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This 6-day trek offers the best acclimatization, high summit success rates, and stunning landscapes—from lush rainforest to alpine deserts and glaciers.
Route Overview
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights on the mountain
- Difficulty: Challenging but rewarding
- Accommodation: Camping
- Success Rate: Very high due to gradual acclimatization
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Hut Camp
A short drive brings us to the Machame trailhead (~5,380’). After the climbers and crew have checked in with the park rangers, we will hike up through the montane forests, winding up the mossy jungle, making our way to Machame Hut camp.
Hiking: 5-7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~9,350′
Day 2: Shira Plateau
After breakfast, our hike continues through the forest. We will take our time, soaking in the scenery as we make our way through the moorlands. We will be treated to spectacular views of Kibo peak.
Hiking: 4-6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~12,500′
Day 3: Barranco Camp
Today is a long day but lots of acclimatization as you climb high, sleep low. We will take an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower (~15,190’) for lunch, before descending to the Barranco valley. For those who have energy, and if time and weather permit, there’s the possibility to scramble up the Lava Tower itself. The scenery is amazing today, passing through different zones of the mountain.
Hiking: 6-8 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,044′
Day 4: Karanga Camp
Today you’ll continue to acclimatize and let your body adjust to these higher altitudes, in preparation for your upcoming summit push. Climb the steep Barranco Wall and then go up and down several ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga camp. There will likely be time for an acclimatization hike in the afternoon.
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,106′
Day 5: Barafu Camp
Today you’ll continue your circuit and arrive at your final camp before the summit (Barafu camp). Some ups and downs along ridges and valleys along the way. You’ll have an early supper, sleep for a few hours, and then arise at about 11:00 PM to start tomorrow’s summit ascent.
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~15,331′
Day 6: Summit and Mweka Camp
Start hiking at around midnight, using your headlamps to lead the way slowly up to Stella Point and then the summit. Due to the altitude, you will hike slowly, and will need to dress warmly for the cold. After celebrating with photos at the summit, descend down to Mweka camp.
Hiking: 6-7 hours ascent to the summit, then 6-9 hours of descent
Summit: ~19,341′
Overnight Altitude: ~10,500′
Day 7: Mweka Park Gate (~5,000’) to Arusha
We make the final descent through the rain forest to Mweka Gate. Here we will have lunch and say goodbye to our mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Drive back to Arusha for a hot shower and a celebratory dinner.
Hiking: 3-5 hours
Package Prices in USD ($) (Per Person) - Based on Number of Climbers
| ROUTE | Days | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax | 6 Pax | 7 Pax | 8 Pax | 9 Pax | 10 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Machame |
7 Days |
3950 |
3593 |
3468 |
3354 |
3316 |
3307 |
– |
– |
3273 |
2998 |
Inclusive
- Airport transfers and two-night hotel stay in Arusha Planet Lodge
- Mountain transfers and sleeping bag
- Professional Kilimanjaro guides, porters, and cooks (salaries and park fees covered)
- Four-season, waterproof tents (twin-sharing) with sleeping mattresses
- Emergency oxygen and nutritious meals on the mountain
- Purified drinking water and mess tents with tables and chairs
- Kilimanjaro park fees, including conservation, camping, rescue, and 18% VAT
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Exclusive
- Tanzania Visa Requirements
- International and Domestic Flights
- Personal Trekking Gear (e.g., hiking boots, clothing, available for rent)
- Tips and Gratuities for Kilimanjaro Crew
- Travel Insurance for Kilimanjaro Trek
- Personal Expenses (laundry, phone calls, beverages, etc.)
- Meals Not Included in Itinerary
- Alcoholic Drinks, Beer, and Bottled Beverages
Reserve Your Machame Route Trek
Your Journey, Your Rules, Let’s Build It Together!
Climb Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and popular route – book now for the Whiskey Route adventure with breathtaking landscapes and higher summit success.