Overview
The 6-Day Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” this trek is designed for those who want a more challenging and rewarding climb with incredible views and varied landscapes. Starting in the lush rainforest, trekkers pass through alpine meadows, moorlands, and desert-like terrains before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak.
This route is ideal for adventurers looking for a more strenuous climb with the benefit of a slower ascent, which helps with acclimatization and increases the chances of reaching the summit. Throughout the trek, trekkers will be surrounded by stunning landscapes, including views of glaciers, volcanic rocks, and the diverse wildlife of Kilimanjaro.
The Wild Kings Africa 6-Day Machame Route offers a comprehensive trekking experience guided by experienced professionals who prioritize safety and comfort, ensuring an unforgettable and successful summit.
Highlights
- Stunning Scenic Views
- The Challenging Barranco Wall
- Acclimatization for Summit Success
- Diverse Ecosystems
Itinerary
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Distance: 10.75 km / 7 mi | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Zone: Rainforest
Elevation: 1,811m / 5,942ft → 3,021m / 9,911ft
Altitude Gained: 1,210mDeparting from Moshi, enjoy a 45-minute scenic drive through the village of Machame to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. After registration and permits, you’ll begin trekking through dense rainforest alive with birds, monkeys, and lush vegetation. The path is often muddy and slippery, especially after rain — trekking poles and gaiters are recommended. Your hike ascends steadily until reaching Machame Camp, set in the upper forest zone.
Overnight at Machame Camp.
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Distance: 5.3 km / 3 mi | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Zone: Moorland
Elevation: 3,021m / 9,911ft → 3,839m / 12,595ft
Altitude Gained: 818mAfter breakfast, leave the rainforest behind as the trail climbs into the moorland zone. The path rises steeply, crossing a rocky ridge with panoramic views of the Shira Plateau. The vegetation changes dramatically — giant heathers and volcanic rock dominate the landscape. The trail winds west toward the river gorge before arriving at Shira Camp, where temperatures begin to drop noticeably.
Overnight at Shira Camp.
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Distance: 10.75 km / 6 mi | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Zone: Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3,839m / 12,595ft → 3,986m / 13,077ft
Altitude Gained: 147mThis crucial acclimatization day begins with a steady ascent toward the Lava Tower (4,630m), a striking volcanic formation. The climb helps your body adjust to high altitude. After lunch near the tower, descend into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and giant senecio plants. Though you end the day only slightly higher than you began, the acclimatization gained today is invaluable for summit success.
Overnight at Barranco Camp.
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Distance: 8.5 km / 5 mi | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Zone: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 3,986m / 13,077ft → 4,034m / 13,235ft → 4,662m / 15,295ft
Altitude Gained: 676mAfter breakfast, conquer the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but enjoyable climb that rewards you with magnificent views of the southern glaciers. The trail descends into the Karanga Valley before merging with the Mweka Route junction. Continue the final ascent to Barafu Camp, perched on a rocky ridge. From here, you’ll enjoy expansive views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Have an early dinner and rest as you prepare for your midnight summit attempt.
Overnight at Barafu Camp.
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Distance: 4.86 km / 3 mi ascent | 13 km / 8 mi descent
Hiking Time: 5–7 hrs up | 5–6 hrs down | Zone: Glaciers & Snow Summit
Elevation: 4,662m / 15,295ft → 5,895m / 19,341ft (Uhuru Peak)
Descent To: 3,106m / 10,190ft
Altitude Gained: 1,233m | Altitude Lost: 2,789mSummit night begins between midnight and 2:00 a.m. under a starry sky. The steep trail leads through volcanic scree between Rebmann and Ratzel Glaciers, gradually zigzagging toward Stella Point (5,681m). After a brief rest and witnessing an unforgettable sunrise, continue for about one more hour to reach Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa!
Celebrate your remarkable achievement, take photos, and enjoy the moment before descending carefully to Barafu Camp for lunch. Continue down through the moorland to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Overnight at Mweka Camp.
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Distance: 9.1 km / 6 mi | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Zone: Rainforest
Elevation: 3,106m / 10,190ft → 1,633m / 5,358ft
Altitude Lost: 1,473mAfter breakfast and a warm farewell ceremony with your crew, begin the descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. You’ll receive your well-earned summit certificate before meeting your driver for transfer back to Moshi. Enjoy a hot shower, dinner, and celebration at The Maridadi Hotel (B&B) — the perfect end to your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Kilimanjaro Park Fees (entry, camping, and rescue)
- Experienced and Certified Guides
- Porters to carry gear, food, and camping equipment
- Accommodation (camping gear, tents, sleeping bags, etc.)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks)
- Round-trip transport from hotel to Machame Gate and Mweka Gate to hotel
- Summit Certificate upon reaching Uhuru Peak
- Oxygen Tank & First Aid Kit
- Group equipment (kitchen gear, tents, mess tent)
- Pre-Trek Briefing
The Cost Excludes
- Flights (international)
- Personal gear (hiking boots, clothing, rain gear, etc.)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Tanzanian visa
- Travel insurance (including evacuation)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, drinks)
- Additional activities (safaris, tours)
- Accommodation before/after the trek
- Medical costs (treatment/evacuation)
FAQs
While previous hiking or trekking experience is helpful, it is not mandatory. The 7-Day Machame Route is designed to allow for proper acclimatization, which increases your chances of successfully reaching the summit. If you’re physically fit and prepared for challenging hikes, you can make it.
The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, which are from June to October and December to February. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking, with clear skies and minimal rain.
You will need high-quality gear suitable for hiking at high altitudes, such as durable hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, gloves, hats, and a headlamp. Personal gear is not included in the package, so be sure to check the recommended gear list provided by Wild Kings Africa before your trek.
The Machame Route is considered moderate to challenging. It involves long days of hiking, significant altitude gain, and some rocky sections like the Barranco Wall. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, many climbers successfully summit. The 7-day itinerary helps ensure gradual ascent, which improves your chances of success.
If you’re unable to reach the summit due to physical exhaustion or health concerns, your guide will prioritize your safety and provide assistance. The route has a well-organized rescue system, and climbers can be taken back down to a lower altitude if needed. Wild Kings Africa ensures that your well-being is always the top priority.
