The 6 Days Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m / 19,341 ft). Known as the “Whiskey Route”, it offers a more challenging trek compared to the Marangu Route, but the rewards are unmatched — breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and a higher summit success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile.
This route takes you through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and icy glaciers, leading to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. With its “climb high, sleep low” approach, the Machame Route gives you a great chance to reach the summit while enjoying a safe and unforgettable adventure.
Why Choose the MACHAME Route?
- Stunning Scenery & Diverse Landscapes
Trek through rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers — each section reveals a new side of Kilimanjaro’s beauty.
- Better Acclimatization = Higher Success Rate
The route’s gradual ascent and “climb high, sleep low” strategy allow your body to adjust to altitude naturally, increasing your summit success.
- Challenging Yet Rewarding
While it’s more demanding than Marangu, the experience is richer, with spectacular views and a greater sense of accomplishment.
- Authentic Camping Adventure
The Machame Route is a full camping experience under the stars — perfect for trekkers seeking adventure and affordability.
Itinerary | Day to day
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Chacha Safaris representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your guide, enjoy dinner, and get a detailed trek briefing and equipment check.
Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Distance covered: 11 km
Habitat: Montane forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your adventure begins! After breakfast, we drive to Machame Gate, where the trek starts. Walk through lush rainforest teeming with wildlife such as blue monkeys. After a picnic lunch, continue climbing until you reach Machame Camp, where you’ll enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Day 2: Machame Camp (2,835m) to Shira Cave Camp (3,750m)
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Distance covered: 5 km
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today’s hike is shorter but steeper as you climb out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone. The trek continues across the Shira Plateau, offering breathtaking views of Kibo Peak before reaching Shira Cave Camp for overnight.
Day 3: Shira Cave Camp (3,750m) to Barranco Camp (3,900m) via Lava Tower (4,600m)
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Distance covered: 10 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
This is an important acclimatization day. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending to Barranco Camp (3,900m) for the night. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude. Enjoy magnificent views of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall.
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,900m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m) via Karanga Camp
Trekking time: 8 hours
Distance covered: 8 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Begin your day with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but thrilling section that rewards you with incredible views. Continue through the alpine desert towards Barafu Camp, the base camp for your final ascent. Get some rest — the summit challenge begins at midnight!
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Millennium Camp (3,950m)
Trekking time: 12–15 hours
Distance covered: 15 km
Habitat: Arctic & alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Summit day! Begin your climb around midnight, reaching Stella Point (5,756m) by sunrise. From there, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your victory and take unforgettable photos before descending to Millennium Camp for overnight rest.
Day 6: Millennium Camp (3,950m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Distance covered: 14 km
Habitat: Montane forest
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Your final descent takes you through a lush rainforest filled with birdlife. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before heading back to Moshi for a well-deserved shower, hot meal, and celebration of your incredible achievement!
End of Your Kilimanjaro Adventure
Congratulations! You’ve conquered Africa’s highest peak with Chacha Safaris. Our team will be happy to assist with any onward travel plans, whether it’s a relaxing Zanzibar beach escape or a thrilling Tanzania wildlife safari.
MACHAME 6 DAYS PRICES
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
| No of Pax | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $1,975 USD |
| 2-4 People | $1,925 USD |
| 5-9 People | $1,775 USD |
| 10+ People | $1,570 USD |
Price Included
Price Excluded
- Two nights accommodation in Hotel
- Private transport to / from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel in Moshi
- Qualified guides with mountain crew
- National park fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees and services
- All camping equipment; mountain tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats
- Transport
- Rescue fees
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Guides and porters’ accommodations and their entry fees on the mountain
- Pulse oximeter
- First aid kit
- Emergence oxygen
- Katady filtered water through the trek
- Fair wages to guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authorit
- Flights
- Visa
- Insurance
- Tips to mountain crew
- Personal Items
- Laundry services (available at the hotel for cost)
