Machame Route

6 Days, 5 Nights Trek

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro VIA the Machame Route

ROUTE OVERVIEW

The Machame route, also called the “Whiskey” route, is the most popular way to climb Kilimanjaro. Its appeal lies in its scenic views. However, the trail is considered tough, steep, and challenging, especially because of its shorter itinerary. This makes the route better suited for more adventurous travelers or those with some experience in high-altitude hiking or backpacking.
The route starts from the south, beginning with a quick drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. It then leads hikers through rain forest to the Shira Plateau, where many of Kilimanjaro’s routes meet. Next, it turns east and crosses beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field along a path called the Southern Circuit before reaching the summit from Barafu. The descent is via the Mweka route.

Price Per Person


1 to 2 People	3 to 4 People	Group of 5+
$1,900	$1,850	$1,800

Trekking Highlights

Summary Route Description

Summit success rates

Machame 6 – Crater Rim: 92.0%, Uhuru Peak: 87.3%

Route Map

Best Time to Use the Machame Route

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route is January to March and June to October. These months offer clear skies and stable weather. You can still climb during the short rainy seasons, but expect more mud, clouds, and possible snow.

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, you will meet with your guide for a briefing about the trek, gear check, and discussion of the next day’s plans. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore Moshi, and prepare for the climb.

Altitude: 915m/3,000ft

Accommodation Options (Before and After the Hike):

After breakfast, you’ll be driven from Moshi to the Machame Gate. Here, you will complete registration formalities, and your trekking permits will be checked. The trek begins through dense rainforest, a lush, green environment with towering trees, ferns, and possibly some wildlife like colobus monkeys. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so trekking poles are useful. After 5-7 hours of trekking, you will reach Machame Camp, where you’ll have dinner and overnight.

Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

After breakfast, the trek continues with a steep climb out of the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. The landscape opens up, offering spectacular views of Mount Meru, Shira Plateau, and Kibo Peak. The trail becomes rocky and dusty, with giant heather plants and volcanic rock formations. Upon reaching Shira Camp, you can enjoy panoramic views of the plateau and surrounding valleys. The temperatures here are significantly cooler, especially at night. Dinner will be served at camp before you rest for the evening.

Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The day starts with a gradual ascent toward Lava Tower, a 4,630-meter-high volcanic rock formation. This is a significant acclimatization day as you reach a higher altitude than where you’ll sleep. The landscape becomes more barren as you enter the alpine desert, with only small shrubs and hardy plants surviving the harsh conditions. After lunch near Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, which brings you to Barranco Camp. The descent helps with acclimatization and prepares you for the upcoming challenges.

Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The day begins with a challenging climb of the Barranco Wall, a steep, rocky slope that requires some scrambling. Although the wall may look intimidating, the trail is manageable and offers breathtaking views as you climb. After conquering the Barranco Wall, the trail follows a series of ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga Camp for a brief stop. The trail then continues to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Barafu Camp is set on a ridge, offering breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the summit of Kibo.

Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 8-10 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The summit attempt begins around midnight. With headlamps lighting the way, you’ll begin the challenging climb up steep scree and ice slopes. The climb to Stella Point is the most physically demanding part of the journey. Upon reaching Stella Point at sunrise, you’ll take a short rest and then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro and in Africa. After celebrating at Uhuru Peak, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, and then continue the descent to Mweka Camp.

Distance: 5 km (3 miles) ascent to Uhuru Peak + 12 km (7.5 miles) descent to Mweka Camp
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to the summit, 4-6 hours descent to Mweka Camp
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

On the final day, you’ll continue descending through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. The trail is gentle and surrounded by the sounds and sights of the forest, a stark contrast to the barren summit. At Mweka Gate, you’ll complete park formalities and receive your summit certificates. After celebrating with your guides and porters, you’ll be driven back to Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

COST BREAKDOWN

Trekking Cost Covers

All entrance fees and Government Taxes
Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure)
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair wages for the mountain crew.
All meals while on the Mountain 
Rescue Fees and all taxes.
Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides 
Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit
Private cook speaking fluent English
Private guide speaking fluent English
Transfers from the Hotel to the Kilimanjaro entrance gate and from the Kilimanjaro exit gate to the hotel.

Does not Cover

Travel insurance
International flights (can be booked for you on request)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Accommodation on day of arrival and departure
Visas & vaccinations
Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.
Private Toilet and hot shower tent.

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Inquiry Space

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

When is the best time to climb the 6 Days Machame Route?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route is January to March and June to October. These months offer clear skies and stable weather. You can still climb during the short rainy seasons, but expect more mud, clouds, and possible snow.

How should I prepare for the 6 Days Machame Route?

Prepare with physical training, mental readiness, and gear planning. Cardio, strength exercises, and long hikes with a weighted backpack are recommended. Layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sturdy boots are essential. Stay hydrated, eat well, and learn to recognize high-altitude symptoms.

Are there other Kilimanjaro routes besides Machame?

Yes, other routes include Machame (scenic southern approach), Lemosho (western), Rongai (northern, drier), Umbwe (steep), and the Northern Circuit (longest and most scenic). Marangu stands out for hut accommodations, gradual ascent, and a well-structured six-day climb.

What is the summit success rate for the 6 Days Machame Route?

The 6-Day Machame Route offers a good summit success rate of about 72%. The route’s gradual climb and helpful acclimatization points improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Success rates are strong when trekkers pace themselves well and stay hydrated.

Is it possible to arrange a safari after Trekking?

Yes, we can arrange a safari for you after you complete the Marangu Route of the Kilimanjaro Trek. Tanzania offers incredible safari destinations, such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, which you can easily add to your adventure. Our team will help you customize an itinerary to suit your preferences, allowing you to experience the best of Tanzanian wildlife after your trek. Simply let us know your interests, and we will arrange an unforgettable safari to complete your Kilimanjaro experience.

Can I join Kilimanjaro group treks on the Machame Route?

Yes, group treks are available. Groups share porters, enjoy guided support, and create a social trekking experience. Group sizes vary; early booking is recommended.