6-Day Machame Route Itinerary

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey” route, is one of the most popular and scenic trails to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. The 6-day version is more challenging but allows trekkers to experience varied landscapes and dramatic views.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Altitude: 1,800m to 3,000m
Distance: 11km
Time: 5–7 hours
Trek through lush rainforest. Expect muddy paths and unique flora. Overnight at Machame Camp.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Altitude: 3,000m to 3,840m
Distance: 5km
Time: 4–6 hours
Hike up a ridge to moorland. Enjoy views of Mount Meru in the distance.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Altitude: 3,840m to 3,950m (via 4,630m Lava Tower)
Distance: 10km
Time: 6–8 hours
Acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower then descend to Barranco. Helps your body adjust to altitude.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Altitude: 3,950m to 4,680m
Distance: 9km
Time: 7–9 hours
Climb the famous Barranco Wall and traverse alpine desert to reach Barafu Camp. Rest early for summit night.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) & down to Mweka Camp

Altitude: 4,680m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then 3,100m
Distance: 17km
Time: 12–15 hours
Midnight start to reach the summit by sunrise. After celebrations, descend to Mweka Camp.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Altitude: 3,100m to 1,640m
Distance: 10km
Time: 3–4 hours
Final descent through rainforest. Receive your summit certificate at the gate.

Price

Price Includes

• Transfers from/to Kilimanjaro Airport
• Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
• All camping equipment except sleeping bags
• Professional mountain crew (guide, cook, porters)
• 3 meals per day on trek
• Purified drinking water
• Emergency first aid kit & evacuation assistance
• Summit certificate

Price Excludes

• International/domestic flights
• Visa & travel insurance
• Tips to crew
• Sleeping bags and personal trekking gear
• Hotel stays before/after the climb (can be arranged)