Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an inspiring challenge, guiding you from lush forests to alpine deserts and a snowy summit. With the right preparation, steady acclimatization, and expert support, trekkers can conquer Africa’s highest peak with confidence and pride.
6 Days Machame Route
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About This Tour
Go on a challenging 6-day climb via the Machame Route, also called the “Whiskey Route,” renowned for its steep trails and high summit success. Starting from Moshi, trek through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine landscapes, gradually acclimatizing at well-placed camps. Ascend from Machame Base to Barafu Base before reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.
Descend safely via Millennium Base to Mweka Gate. This route offers adventurous hikers a mix of stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, camping under tents, and an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience, balancing challenge, natural beauty, and accomplishment.
Trip Info
Arrival City
Arusha ,Tanzania
Departure City
Arusha,Tanzania
Duration
3 Days
Language
English, French, Swahili
Trip Highlights
Machame Gate to Base Camp
Start your journey through lush rainforest, encountering diverse flora, fauna, and scenic natural landscapes.
Shira Cave to Barranco Camp
Trek rugged paths and rocky terrain, experiencing the thrill and challenge of Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude environment.
Machame Base to Shira Camp
Ascend gradually through moorlands, allowing proper acclimatization while enjoying panoramic mountain views and wildlife sightings.
Descent to Mweka Gate
Safely descend through alpine zones and rainforests, reflecting on achievements and the unforgettable Kilimanjaro journey.
Barranco to Barafu Base
Climb steep trails, witness stunning vistas, and prepare for the ultimate summit push to Uhuru Peak.
Summit Uhuru Peak
Reach Kilimanjaro’s highest point at 5,895 meters, watching sunrise and enjoying unparalleled panoramic mountain scenery.
Itinerary Details
Day 1 :From Moshi to Machame Entrance (1790m) and then onwards to Machame Base (3010m)
Our adventure kicks off with a scenic one-hour drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, where we will complete the necessary park formalities, meet our dedicated team of porters, and officially embark on our journey. The initial stretch of the Machame Route takes us through a stunning, dense rainforest. This particular part of the trail sees fewer hikers, so expect some overgrown sections and muddy terrain, which only adds to the thrill of the experience. Amidst this lush rainforest ecosystem, climbers will be treated to a vibrant display of diverse plant and animal life. The ascent is gradual, allowing for a smooth acclimatization process as we steadily progress upwards.Distance to be covered: 10.8 km / 6.7 milesApproximate duration: 6 hours.
Day 2 : Heading from Machame Camp at an altitude of 3010 meters to Shira Camp at 3845 meters
Our journey continues as we hike through the dense rainforest, gradually making our way up towards the steep slope leading to the Shira Plateau. This part of the ascent showcases a noticeable shift in landscape, transitioning from the vibrant forest to more open, rocky terrain as we near the plateau. As we progress, the vistas expand, offering breathtaking views of the towering peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon reaching the Shira Plateau, adventurers are treated to awe-inspiring sights of the mountain’s upper slopes, where the rugged land transforms into a barren, alpine environment. From this viewpoint, you can also admire the stunning sight of Mount Meru, standing tall above Arusha town in the distance. The contrast between the two mountains is truly remarkable, creating a memorable moment to pause and soak in the natural beauty surrounding us. Covered distance: 5.4 km / 3.4 miles Estimated duration: 5 hours.
Day 3 : From Shira Cave at an altitude of 3845 meters to Barranco Camp situated at 3960 meters
Today marks our transition into the high moorland of Mount Kilimanjaro, where we will witness a remarkable transformation in the landscape. The terrain evolves into a more rugged and expansive environment, as the vibrant rainforest gives way to sparse vegetation and rocky formations. Our trek along the southwest side of the mountain will lead us beneath the impressive Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation towering over the surroundings. Continuing our ascent along the challenging Western Breach, renowned among mountaineers, we will be greeted with breathtaking vistas showcasing the mountain’s raw beauty and the vast expanse of the landscape. While today’s trek is physically demanding, the unparalleled views make it all worthwhile. Upon reaching our camp at the end of the day, we can unwind and recuperate from a strenuous day of high-altitude hiking. Distance covered: 10.8 km / 6.7 miles. Approximate duration: 8 hours.
Day 4 : From Barranco Base (3960 meters) to Barafu Base (4640 meters)
Today’s adventure commences with a descent into the magnificent Great Barranco, a vast gorge that cuts its way through the mountain’s inclines. Upon reaching the base, we are met with the task of climbing the imposing Great Barranco Wall, a steep and rocky ascent that stands between us and the southeastern slopes of Kibo. Although not a technical climb, it is a lengthy and physically demanding endeavor that demands perseverance and endurance to reach the summit. As we make our way up the wall, we are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the neighboring glaciers, such as the Heim and Kersten glaciers, shimmering under the high-altitude sun. Following our triumph over the Barranco Wall, we press on towards the Karanga Valley, our final chance to replenish our water supply before pushing onward to the peak. The landscape begins to transform, with scree and loose rocks becoming more common, painting a more barren and desolate picture as we approach our next destination. Distance covered: 8.5 km / 5.3 miles. Estimated time: 8 hours.
Day 5 : From Barafu Basecamp to the Summit of Uhuru Peak and Descending to Millennium Basecamp
Our journey kicks off around midnight, shrouded in darkness, as we tackle the most exhilarating and challenging phase en route to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. The initial climb is steep, and for the ensuing 4 to 5 hours, we navigate the scree slopes, steadily ascending over a brief stretch. This leg demands physical exertion, but the payoff is a swift increase in elevation and stunning vistas as we progress. The crater’s magnificent ice cliffs envelop us, with awe-inspiring views of the rugged Mawenzi peak and beyond. After an additional hour’s hike, we arrive at the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). Our descent begins as we retrace our steps to Stella Point and then make our way down via scree slopes and trails to Barafu Camp for breakfast. From there, we head towards Millenium Camp for the final leg of our trek. Distance covered: 13.4 km / 8.3 miles. Estimated duration: 12 – 15 hours. As the first light of dawn emerges on the horizon, we will reach the crater rim at Stella Point (5,739 meters) just as the sun starts to ascend.
Day 6 : Hiking from Millennium Camp at an altitude of 3790 meters to Mweka Gate at 1630 meters
Following the rewarding ascent to the summit, our last day on Mount Kilimanjaro involves a leisurely descent through the verdant rainforest. The route today is gentle, leading us down to Mweka Gate, where we finalize the necessary park procedures. The rainforest offers a peaceful and rejuvenating change of scenery after the challenges of high altitude, with its refreshing shade and diverse plant life. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, participants will receive well-deserved certificates, a token of their remarkable accomplishment in conquering Africa’s highest peak. These certificates serve as a proud keepsake of the journey and can serve as a lasting reminder of the recently completed adventure. Once formalities are done, our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Moshi. The return journey provides an opportunity to contemplate the incredible experiences and achievements of the past days. Distance covered: 12.1 km / 7.5 miles Approximate duration: 6 hours.
Included & Excluded
- Baggage handling
- Emergency assistance charge
- Entry fees for tourists
- Scheduled excursions (excluding those noted as additional)
- Standard lodging (excluding any enhancements)
- Knowledgeable chauffeur/guide
- Comprehensive conveyance (except for those marked as extra)
- All governmental charges
- Two-way airport shuttle
- Provided meals (as outlined in the itinerary)
- Bottled water (daily).
- Exclusions for this package do not cover expenses for climbing equipment
- Flights that are not domestic
- Any extra accommodation needed before or after the tour
- Suggested gratuity of US$10.00 per person per day
- Personal expenses like souvenirs
- Insurance
- Visa expenses
- Any unforeseen rises in taxes or park fees mandated by the government.
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