6-Day Machame Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route with Alvin African Safaris. This 6-day trek offers stunning landscapes, varied terrain, and a rewarding summit of Uhuru Peak, guided by local experts.

6 Days / 5 Nights on the mountain (+ extra hotel nights)

Machame Gate, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, Uhuru Peak, Mweka Gate

Trekking Overview

Kilimanjaro’s Most Popular Route

Known as the “Whiskey Route,” the Machame Route is one of the most sought-after trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural history, and high summit success rate (around 88%), this route offers a true adventure through rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.

Starting near Machame village, the trek winds through scenic and challenging terrain, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a dynamic climb. While the route is considered more demanding than the Marangu Route, it rewards climbers with spectacular scenery and a thrilling sense of achievement.

Full Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Hotel

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport, your Alvin African Safaris guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a full trek briefing, covering gear checks, safety tips, and route planning.

Meals: Dinner on your own
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 2: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m)

Your trek begins with a scenic drive to Machame Gate, where permits are processed. Begin your ascent through a lush rainforest, keeping an eye out for monkeys and exotic birds. Reach Machame Camp by late afternoon.

  • Habitat: Rainforest Zone

  • Hiking Distance: 11 km

  • Time: 5-6 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Machame Camp

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Cave (3,750m)

Rise early for a steady climb through moorland and heather. After reaching Shira Cave, enjoy a hot lunch and an optional acclimatization hike in the afternoon to help prepare for higher altitudes.

  • Habitat: Heather & Moorland

  • Hiking Distance: 5 km

  • Time: 4-5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Shira Cave Camp

Day 4: Shira Cave to Lava Tower (4,600m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)

A key acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending to Barranco Camp. This climb-high, sleep-low approach is essential for adjusting to the altitude.

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert & Moorland

  • Hiking Distance: 10 km

  • Time: 6-7 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m)

Begin with the exhilarating climb up Barranco Wall, then cross valleys to reach Karanga Camp. After lunch, continue your ascent to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit push.

  • Habitat: Moorland & Alpine Desert

  • Hiking Distance: 10 km

  • Time: 8 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Your summit day starts at midnight. Ascend under starlit skies to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for the night.

  • Habitat: Arctic Zone (Summit), Moorland (Descent)

  • Hiking Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent

  • Time: 7-8 hours up, 4-6 hours down

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,650m) and Transfer to Hotel

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here you’ll receive your summit certificate—gold for those who reached Uhuru Peak. Transfer back to your hotel for a well-deserved hot shower and celebration.

  • Hiking Distance: 10 km

  • Time: 3-4 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 8: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) / Arusha Airport

We’ll arrange your transfer to the airport in line with your flight schedule, marking the end of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Why Choose Alvin African Safaris?

  • Personalized itineraries built around your interests and travel style

  • Expert local guides who bring Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife to life

  • Handpicked lodges and camps for comfort and authenticity

  • Private vehicle and flexible schedules for a more personal experience

  • Trusted, family-run company with deep local knowledge and care for your journey

What’s Included

  • Accommodation as per itinerary

  • Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast at town hotels; Full Board during the Kilimanjaro climb

  • Porters to carry your luggage

  • Salaries and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks

  • Trekking poles and sleeping bag

  • Professional English-speaking mountain guide

  • Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to your hotel in Arusha

  • Drop-off at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) after the trek

  • Transfers to/from Marangu Gate for the climb

  • Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and rescue fees

  • 18% VAT for park fees

What’s Included

  • Tanzania entry visa

  • Medical insurance

  • International and domestic flights

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Non-alcoholic drinks not listed in the itinerary

  • Personal items (e.g., laundry, phone calls)

  • Tips for guides, porters, and camp staff

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