6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Machame Route

Overview

Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route”, the Machame Route has earned its reputation as a more challenging and expensive alternative to the “Coca-Cola Route” (Marangu). While it’s physically more demanding in certain sections—steeper than the Marangu and Rongai routes—it is not technical and is achievable for fit trekkers with some hiking or backpacking experience.

Among the various routes up Kilimanjaro, Machame stands out as one of the best options when balancing acclimatization, scenery, and cost. The route provides excellent “walk high, sleep low” opportunities, significantly improving the chances of successful acclimatization.

The trail is scenically stunning and diverse, guiding climbers through five distinct ecological zones. Highlights include panoramic views from the Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up the Lava Tower, the dramatic ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, and a traverse beneath Kilimanjaro’s majestic southern ice field.

The route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends via the Mweka Route. A strategic feature of this route is the option to split the long pre-summit day climb, allowing trekkers to rest well before the final push to Uhuru Peak.

However, due to its growing popularity, the trail can become crowded, which may slightly diminish the sense of solitude. Still, for those seeking a rewarding and picturesque trekking experience, the Machame Route remains a top choice.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 0: Pre-Trek Briefing (Arrival in Moshi)

If you have opted for airport transfers, we will pick you up from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
Later, you'll attend a detailed pre-trek briefing at the hotel. This includes a comprehensive gear check and an opportunity to rent any missing equipment.
Note: We recommend arriving in Moshi at least one day before the trek begins.

Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp

After breakfast, we drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, a journey of about 45 minutes, passing through the farming village of Machame located on the mountain’s lower slopes. At the gate, we register and begin our trek through lush montane rainforest. The trail can be muddy and slippery at this lower elevation of 1,830 meters (6,000 feet), so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. We ascend steadily along a ridge until we reach Machame Camp at 3,050 meters (9,950 feet). The hike covers approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) and takes about 5 to 6 hours.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

We continue our ascent, leaving behind the rainforest as the trail climbs into moorland. The path takes us up a rocky ridge and across a small valley before arriving at the Shira Plateau. From here, we follow the route westward along a river gorge to reach Shira Camp, which sits at an altitude of 3,850 meters (12,600 feet). Though the distance is shorter—around 5 kilometers (3 miles)—the trail is steeper, and the walk takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

This day is key for acclimatization as we hike up to a high point before descending to camp. We head east across the plateau and ascend a ridge toward Lava Tower, a jagged volcanic formation also known as the “Shark’s Tooth,” at 4,650 meters (15,250 feet). After taking in the views, we descend to Barranco Camp, which sits at 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). Although we start and end the day at similar elevations, the altitude gain and descent (over 10 kilometers or 6 miles) over 5 to 6 hours helps your body adapt to the changing conditions. The terrain transitions from moorland to semi-desert.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp via Karanga

We begin the day with a challenging climb up the Great Barranco Wall, rising to about 4,250 meters (13,900 feet). From there, we descend slightly into the Karanga Valley (4,050 meters or 13,250 feet), and then continue upward along a steady path toward Barafu Camp at 4,700 meters (15,350 feet). The day’s trek covers about 9 kilometers (6 miles) and takes between 6 to 8 hours. The alpine desert terrain becomes more barren as we approach our final camp before the summit. At Barafu, we prepare for the midnight ascent.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

We begin our summit attempt in the early hours of the morning, between midnight and 2:00 a.m. The route leads northwest, ascending over steep scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim, at 5,730 meters (18,800 feet). From there, we push onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, standing at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet). As the sun rises over the glaciers, you’ll be rewarded with views like no other.
After celebrating at the summit, we descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch, then continue further down to Mweka Camp, located at 3,090 meters (10,150 feet). The total distance is around 18 kilometers (11 miles)—5 kilometers up and 13 kilometers down—and the day takes roughly 10 to 13 hours in total. Expect a range of conditions, from ice and snow at the summit to dusty trail on the descent.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

After breakfast, we continue our descent through the rainforest, covering about 10 kilometers (6 miles) over 3 to 4 hours. The trail may be slippery at lower elevations, so trekking poles are still useful. At Mweka Gate, located at 1,680 meters (5,500 feet), you’ll receive your summit certificates. Our vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi, about a 1-hour drive away. You’ll have time to rest, shower, and celebrate your achievement.

Please note that this day-by-day itinerary serves as a suggested outline and can be tailored to meet your specific interests, travel pace, and preferences. Whether you’d like to adjust the activities, extend your stay, or include special experiences, we’re happy to customize the tour to create a personalized and memorable journey for you.