Six Days Machame Route Hiking

Safari summary

Take on the challenge of 6 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via the Machame Route in 2026-2027, a breathtaking trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), Africa’s highest peak. The Machame Route, famously called the “Whiskey Route,” is popular for its beautiful scenery and rewarding hiking experience. Over six days, hikers pass through diverse landscapes including lush rainforest, moorlands, alpine desert, and the icy slopes near the summit. Though shorter than the 7-day option, this 6-day itinerary is designed for strong and determined hikers who can adapt quickly to altitude. Each day involves steady hiking, acclimatization walks, and spectacular views, making it a memorable adventure for those who want both challenge and beauty in their Kilimanjaro journey.

Hiking Itinerary:

Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate – Machame Camp (3,010m)
Your Kilimanjaro hiking adventure begins with a transfer from Moshi to Machame Gate. After registration, the hike starts through dense rainforest alive with colobus monkeys, colorful birds, and lush vegetation. The trail is steep, often muddy and slippery, but the canopy keeps it shaded. After 5–6 hours of continuous hiking, you arrive at Machame Camp, located on the edge of the forest zone. Overnight in tents.

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,845m)
Today’s hike takes you out of the forest and into the moorland zone. The trail is rocky and climbs steadily, offering increasingly open views of the mountain. Giant heathers and volcanic rock formations surround the trail as you hike for 5–6 hours to Shira Camp, a wide plateau that provides breathtaking sunset views of Mount Meru in the distance. Overnight in tents.

Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
This is one of the most important acclimatization days. You hike upward to Lava Tower, a massive volcanic rock at 4,630m, where you rest and adjust to the altitude. The high point may feel challenging with thinner air, but it helps prepare your body for the summit. Afterward, descend to Barranco Valley, a beautiful area surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. The descent allows your body to recover, making this a “hike high, sleep low” day. Hiking time: 6–7 hours.

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
The day begins with the Barranco Wall, a thrilling but non-technical scramble offering stunning views. After the climb, hike across ridges and valleys before stopping briefly at Karanga Camp for rest and acclimatization. Continue hiking steadily for several more hours through alpine desert until you reach Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Temperatures are colder here, and the air is thin, but the excitement for summit night builds. Hiking time: 7–8 hours.

Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Summit day begins around midnight. Equipped with headlamps, you hike slowly in the dark along steep switchbacks, guided by the stars and your determination. After 6–7 hours, you reach Stella Point at dawn, then continue for another hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate the incredible achievement with panoramic views of glaciers and the African plains below. After photos, descend carefully back to Barafu Camp for rest before continuing the long hike down to Mweka Camp. This is the toughest but most rewarding day of the entire trek. Total hiking time: 11–14 hours.

Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
The final day is a relaxing 3–4 hour hike through the rainforest zone. The trail is easier as you descend through tall trees, bird calls, and fresh mountain air. At Mweka Gate, collect your certificate of achievement and transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.

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?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas