Six Days Machame route

Safari summary

Kilimanjaro 6 Days via Machame Route
Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is the tallest mountain in Africa and one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world. The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is widely recognized for its scenic beauty and gradual acclimatization profile. While it's more challenging than the Marangu Route, it offers higher success rates and a richer experience due to its varied landscapes.

The 6-day Machame Route itinerary is an excellent option for trekkers with good physical fitness and some hiking experience. Although it compresses the climb into a shorter time frame compared to the 7-day option, it still follows the important “climb high, sleep low” principle to aid in acclimatization.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (3,000m)
Hiking Distance: 11 km

Time: 5–7 hours
Zone: Rainforest
The first day begins with a transfer from Moshi or Arusha to the Kilimanjaro National Park's Machame Gate, located at 1,800 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, climbers register with park authorities, meet their full mountain support crew—guides, cooks, and porters—and go through a short briefing before the trek begins.
The hike starts in dense rainforest, one of Kilimanjaro’s distinct ecological zones. Expect lush greenery, hanging vines, ferns, and moss-covered trees. The air is humid and earthy. You might see black-and-white colobus monkeys or blue monkeys jumping through the trees. The trail can be slippery due to frequent rains, so proper trekking boots and rain gear are essential.

After about 5–7 hours of walking uphill through forest paths, you reach Machame Camp, situated at 3,000 meters. The campsite lies just at the edge of the rainforest zone. At this elevation, the temperatures drop significantly at night, and trekkers begin to feel the thinner air. Your tents will be set up by the porters, and dinner is prepared by the camp chef. Hydration is emphasized, as the effects of altitude begin here.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp (3,840m)
Hiking Distance: 5 km

Time: 4–6 hours
Zone: Moorland
The second day begins with a steep ascent through the final parts of the rainforest into the moorland zone. The trees become fewer, giving way to low shrubs, giant heathers, and unique alpine plants like the Dendrosenecio. The trail becomes rockier and steeper as it zigzags up the side of the mountain.
After a few hours of continuous ascent, the trail flattens out slightly as you reach the Shira Plateau, a high-altitude desert-like area formed from an ancient lava flow. The expansive plateau offers panoramic views across the valleys below and to Mount Meru on the western horizon.
You arrive at Shira Cave Camp (3,840m), named after a nearby cave used by early climbers. This is your second night sleeping at high altitude. The change in scenery is dramatic, with clouds often rolling beneath the camp, making it feel like you're camping above the world.
The air is noticeably thinner, so guides will check your oxygen saturation levels and monitor your acclimatization. Despite the short distance, this day is crucial for helping the body adjust to the elevation.

Day 3: Shira Cave – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Hiking Distance: 10 km

Time: 6–8 hours

Zone: Alpine Desert

Day 3 is one of the most important acclimatization days. It follows the "climb high, sleep low" strategy. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation that sits at 4,630 meters, and then descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters for the night.

The trail continues across the Shira Plateau and gradually climbs into the alpine desert zone. Vegetation becomes sparse, with only small, hardy shrubs able to survive in the dry, thin air. The scenery is stark, with wide stretches of dust and rock. Winds may pick up, and temperatures fluctuate widely between sun and shade.

After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll take a rest and have lunch. At this altitude, many trekkers begin to feel symptoms of altitude sickness: headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Spending time at Lava Tower, even briefly, is a vital step in acclimatization.

The trail then descends to Barranco Camp, a pleasant site nestled in a valley below the Great Barranco Wall. The descent provides relief from the high altitude and allows the body to recover. The campsite is surrounded by strange, otherworldly plants like the Giant Groundsels (Dendrosenecio kilimanjari), creating a surreal landscape.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Hiking Distance: 5 km

Time: 4–5 hours

Zone: Alpine Desert

The day starts with one of the most exhilarating challenges on the route: the Barranco Wall, a 257-meter vertical face of rock. Despite its intimidating appearance, it does not require technical climbing skills. Most trekkers can scramble up with the help of trekking poles, guides, and a good sense of balance. It’s fun, a bit scary for some, but very

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, March, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• All drinks
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas