Machame Route Kilimanjaro Trek

Safari summary

6 Days Machame Route Overview
The 6-day Machame Route trek is a fast-paced and scenic route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, favored by experienced trekkers looking for a shorter ascent without compromising on adventure. Often called the “Whiskey Route,” it begins on the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro and offers a more direct approach to the summit compared to longer itineraries. With dramatic changes in landscape—from dense rainforest to high alpine desert—the 6-day Machame Route is ideal for climbers who are physically fit and acclimatize well to altitude, seeking an immersive Kilimanjaro trekking experience within a limited timeframe.

6 Days Machame Route Distance Covered
The distance covered on the 6-day Machame Route is approximately 62 kilometers (39 miles) from Machame Gate to the summit and down to Mweka Gate. The daily trekking distance ranges from 5 to 15 kilometers, traversing diverse terrain including forest trails, rocky ridges, and glacial landscapes. While the distance is the same as the 7-day option, the compressed schedule means fewer acclimatization opportunities, requiring trekkers to maintain a steady pace and be prepared for a more intense hiking experience.

6 Days Machame Route Weather & Temperature
Weather on the 6-day Machame Route trek is highly variable due to the altitude change from 1,800 meters to 5,895 meters. Climbers begin in warm, humid rainforest conditions and progressively enter colder, drier environments. Temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes, especially at Barafu Camp and during the midnight summit attempt, where they can fall below -10°C (14°F). Rain can occur in the lower zones year-round, so trekkers should be equipped for wet and cold conditions with appropriate clothing and gear for a successful Kilimanjaro summit.

6 Days Machame Route Elevation Gain
The total elevation gain on the 6-day Machame Route is about 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), starting at Machame Gate (1,800 meters) and reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). The route features steep ascents and challenging elevation shifts, particularly with the rapid gain between camps due to the shorter itinerary. Although it is more demanding in terms of altitude adjustment, the route is designed with some acclimatization built in through “climb high, sleep low” strategies.

6 Days Machame Route Itinerary Summary (in paragraph form)
The 6-day Machame Route itinerary begins with a trek through the lush rainforest to Machame Camp. On day two, climbers ascend to the Shira Plateau and stay at Shira Camp. Day three includes a challenging hike up to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then a descent to Barranco Camp. Day four brings the exhilarating climb over the Barranco Wall followed by the trek to Barafu Camp, the base camp for summit night. Day five involves a midnight push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and a long descent to Mweka Camp. On the final day, trekkers descend through the forest to Mweka Gate, where the Kilimanjaro adventure concludes.

6 Days Machame Route Acclimatization & Success Rate
Due to its shorter duration, the 6-day Machame Route offers fewer opportunities for acclimatization compared to the 7-day version, which may impact summit success for some trekkers. However, it still includes high-altitude exposure with the Lava Tower ascent and the "climb high, sleep low" principle, aiding altitude adaptation. The summit success rate for the 6-day Machame Route typically ranges from 80% to 85%, making it a feasible option for well-prepared and fit climbers with prior high-altitude experience.

6 Days Machame Route Cost and Price (Starting from $1450 per person)
The cost of the 6-day Machame Route trek starts from $1,450 per person, depending on the chosen tour group size, and included services. This base price covers park fees, guide and porter support, meals, tents, and transport to and from the trail. For climbers seeking enhanced comfort, premium packages with upgraded accommodations and added amenities are available at a higher cost. The 6-day Machame Route offers an efficient and cost-effective path to the summit of Kilimanjaro, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious adventurers with limited time.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees

What’s not included?

• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Private vehicle and driver
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas