6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb (Machame Route)

6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb (Machame Route)

Additional Notes:

  • The Machame Route is often called the “Whiskey Route” because it is a bit harder than the Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola Route”), but it offers more scenic variety and better acclimatization.

  • The itinerary can be adjusted for different routes or days depending on fitness and preference.

  • A good level of fitness is recommended for the climb.

  • Porters carry your equipment, but you should carry a daypack with water, snacks, and extra layers.

  • Meals, tents, and guides are included in most tour packages.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Machame Gate

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha.

  • Transfer to the Machame Gate (1,640m / 5,380 ft), the starting point of the trek.

  • Meet your guides and porters, complete registration formalities.

  • Begin your trek through the lush rainforest to Machame Camp (2,835m / 9,301 ft).

  • Trek Duration: 5-7 hours, Distance: approx. 11 km (7 miles).

  • Camp overnight at Machame Camp.


Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

  • Trek through the moorland zone above the rainforest.

  • Cross open moorlands with stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

  • Arrive at Shira Camp (3,505m / 11,500 ft), set up camp and rest.

  • Trek Duration: 4-6 hours, Distance: approx. 5 km (3 miles).

  • Camp overnight at Shira Camp.


Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

  • Cross the Shira Plateau, a high-altitude desert with great views.

  • Descend slightly to Barranco Camp (3,900m / 12,795 ft).

  • Trek Duration: 6-8 hours, Distance: approx. 10 km (6 miles).

  • Option to attempt the Barranco Wall (a steep but non-technical rock face) for acclimatization.

  • Camp overnight at Barranco Camp.


Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

  • Early morning ascent of Barranco Wall (optional but recommended).

  • Trek across alpine desert, with views of the Western Breach.

  • Arrive at Karanga Camp (4,035m / 13,235 ft).

  • Trek Duration: 4-5 hours, Distance: approx. 5 km (3 miles).

  • Camp overnight at Karanga Camp.


Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

  • Trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m / 15,223 ft), the base for the summit push.

  • Rest and prepare for the summit attempt later in the night.

  • Trek Duration: 3-4 hours, Distance: approx. 4 km (2.5 miles).

  • Early dinner and early sleep to prepare for the summit climb.

  • Camp overnight at Barafu Camp.


Day 6: Summit Day and Descent to Mweka Camp

  • Start the summit climb at midnight, heading for Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341 ft), the highest point in Africa.

  • Trek through the dark, passing Stella Point on the crater rim before reaching the summit.

  • Celebrate the sunrise at Uhuru Peak!

  • Descend back down to Barafu Camp for rest and refreshments.

  • Continue descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m / 10,170 ft).

  • Trek Duration: 10-14 hours total (summit and descent).

  • Camp overnight at Mweka Camp.


Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Departure

  • Final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380 ft).

  • Receive certificates of achievement.

  • Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

  • End of trek.