Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro
6 days—The Complete 6-Day Machame Route Climb is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m)—Africa’s tallest
$1580-2300 USD
pp
Safari summary
The Complete 6-Day Machame Route Climb is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m)—Africa’s tallest peak and the world’s highest free-standing mountain. Known as the “Whiskey Route”, Machame offers epic landscapes, diverse ecological zones, and a more adventurous approach than the easier Marangu Route.
Over six days, you trek through lush rainforest, cross high moorlands, climb the dramatic Barranco Wall, traverse alpine deserts, and finally ascend to the icy slopes of Kibo to reach Uhuru Peak, the iconic summit. This 6-day version is designed for trekkers who want a challenging, fast ascent with unbeatable scenery.
Whether you're a first-time high-altitude climber or an adventure seeker, the Machame Route provides the perfect balance of difficulty, acclimatization, and natural beauty.
About this tour
| Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
| Main focus | None | |
| Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
| Best months | All months | |
| Countries | ||
| Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Walking safari—with armed guard
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- All drinks
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Laundry
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Spa treatments
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Machame Gate → Machame Camp
Trekking Time: 5–7 hours Distance: ~11 km Habitat: Rainforest Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, where your team handles registration, gear checks, and park procedures. The trek begins in the rainforest—the wettest, greenest zone of the mountain. Expect muddy trails, ancient trees draped in moss, and frequent sightings of blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys. The hike is steady but manageable as you climb to Machame Camp
Dinner & overnight at Machame Camp.
Machame Camp → Shira Camp
Trekking Time: 4–6 hours Distance: ~5 km Habitat: Moorland Today’s trek begins with a steep climb that quickly rewards you with expansive views. The landscape transitions from forest to moorland, with volcanic rock formations and hardy plants like giant heathers. Arrive at Shira Camp, an open site offering sweeping views of Kibo Peak and Mt. Meru on clear evenings.
Overnight at Shira Camp.
Shira Camp → Barranco Camp
Shira Camp → Lava Tower (4,630m) → Barranco Camp (3,976m) Trekking Time: 6–8 hours Distance: ~10 km Habitat: Alpine Desert This important acclimatization day follows the principle: “climb high, sleep low.” You ascend gradually toward the iconic Lava Tower, a 300 ft (90m) volcanic formation standing at 4,630m. After lunch at Lava Tower, you descend into the lush Barranco Valley, surrounded by surreal giant groundsels (Dendrosenecio) and steep cliffs.
Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Barranco Camp →Karanga Camp (3,995m
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours Distance: ~5 km Habitat: Alpine Desert Your morning begins with the exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall—a rocky scramble requiring hands-on climbing but safe and non-technical. At the top (4,200m), you’re rewarded with jaw-dropping views of glaciers and the vast plains below. The trail continues with a series of ups and downs across ridges and dry valleys before reaching Karanga Camp, an essential acclimatization stop.
Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp
Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp (4,673m) Trekking Time: 3–4 hours Distance: ~4 km Habitat: Alpine Desert Today’s trek leads you steadily upward to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. The landscape becomes stark—cold winds, loose gravel, and a dramatic ridge line leading to the campsite. After arriving early, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch, rest, and re-check your summit gear (headlamp, snacks, extra layers).
Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Barafu Camp →Mweka Gate → Moshi
Total Trekking Time: 10–14 hours Distance: 16–20 km Habitats: Arctic → Alpine Desert → Rainforest 01:00 – Begin Summit Push You begin the steepest and most emotional part of the entire journey. Step by step (“pole pole”), you ascend through switchbacks toward Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim. Reaching Stella at sunrise is one of the most unforgettable sights on earth. A final gentle walk along the crater edge leads you to Uhuru Peak
Hotel in Moshi
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