




Machame Route 6 Days Hike
USD 2,340 / person
See Group Booking Discount
No. of People
Price per person
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1 Pax $ 2,680
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2 Pax $ 2,340
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3 - 6 Pax $ 2,250
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7 - 10 Pax $ 2,115
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11+ Pax $ 1920
Machame Rote 6 Days Hike, Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour, Climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route in 6 Days, a challenging and scenic trail known for its stunning views and high summit success.. Perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking a fast, exciting, and well-guided ascent.
Tanzania
8 Days
Challenging
Trekking/Hiking
5,895m (19,341 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Hotel & Camping
Included
Kilimanjaro Airport
Country
Tanzania
8
Challenging
Trekking / Hiking
5,895 m(19,341 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Hotel & Camping
Included
Trip Highlights
- Classic “Whiskey Route” – scenic and popular trail
- Excellent acclimatization profile for summit success
- Trek through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers
- Overnight stays in tents with full mountain support crew
- Summit Mount Kilimanjaro (Uhuru Peak – 5,895 m) on Day 5
- Professional guides, porters, and chef for a safe and enjoyable climb
- Ideal for physically fit trekkers seeking adventure
Machame Route 6 Days Hike Overview
The Machame Rote 6 Days Hike, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This popular trail is well-known for its diverse landscapes, excellent acclimatization opportunities, and a strong success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak.
Your journey with Hike Kilimanjaro begins in the lush rainforest at Machame Gate and ascends steadily through moorland and alpine desert zones. Along the way, you’ll traverse dramatic ridges, cross lava-formed valleys, and enjoy panoramic views of the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and Barranco Wall. The route’s “climb high, sleep low” design gives your body time to adjust to altitude, enhancing your chances of a successful summit.
Led by experienced mountain guides and supported by a dedicated team of porters and cooks, this 6-day trek balances physical challenge with safety and comfort. If you’re a fit and adventurous traveler looking for an immersive Kilimanjaro experience, the Machame Route offers an unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa.
Machame Route 6 Days Hike Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly greeted by a Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd representative and transferred comfortably to Planet Lodge in Arusha or a similar-quality lodge. Once you have settled in, your lead guide will conduct a detailed pre-trek briefing, followed by a thorough equipment check to make sure you are completely prepared and ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
- Overnight at Planet Lodge
- Breakfast included
Note: Your pre-trek briefing will be held at our office if you arrive before 4:00 PM. For later arrivals, the briefing will be conducted at your hotel for your convenience.
Kindly bring a copy of your passport and a clear copy of your travel insurance policy, as these documents are required to secure your trekking permits and complete all necessary park formalities.
Please note that hotel check-in begins at 12:00 PM. If you are scheduled to arrive early in the morning, inform us in advance. We can arrange a day-use room (subject to availability) or organize optional short activities so you can relax comfortably until your room is ready.
Day 2: Arusha to Machame Gate (1,800m) – Trek to Machame Camp (2,835m)
After breakfast in Arusha or Moshi, the Hike Kilimanjaro team will transfer you to Machame Gate, where park registration formalities are completed. Your trek then begins through the lush montane rainforest, home to towering fig trees, vibrant birdlife, and playful black-and-white colobus monkeys.
The trail may be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Following a steady ascent through the forest, you will reach Machame Camp (2,835m), where you’ll settle in for your first night on the mountain beneath the open sky.
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
- Elevation Gain: +1,035 m
- Overnight at Machame Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 3: Machame Camp (2,835m) to Shira Camp (3,850m) – Ascending to the Shira Plateau
Today, the landscape transforms dramatically as you leave the dense rainforest and enter the open moorland zone. The trail ascends steadily through heather-covered slopes and rocky terrain, revealing sweeping views across the Shira Plateau and, on clear days, distant glimpses of Mount Meru.
By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp (3,850m), allowing ample time to rest and support proper acclimatization. The wide alpine setting offers breathtaking scenery, and the sunset from this campsite is often among the most spectacular along the entire route.
- Time: 4–6 hours
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Elevation Gain: +1,015 m
- Overnight at Shira Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 4: Shira Camp (3,850m) – Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m) – Descend to Barranco Camp (3,976m) – Key Acclimatization Day
Today is a crucial acclimatization day. You will trek toward Lava Tower, a towering volcanic rock formation, reaching an altitude of 4,630m before descending to Barranco Camp (3,976m). This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps your body adjust effectively to the altitude.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter unique alpine vegetation, including senecio and lobelia plants found only on Kilimanjaro’s higher slopes. Barranco Camp, nestled in a scenic valley beneath the Barranco Wall, provides a stunning setting to relax and enjoy your first night above the rainforest.
- Time: 6–8 hours
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Elevation Gain: +780 m (to Lava Tower), then –654 m (to Barranco Camp)
- Overnight at Brranco Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,976m) – Ascend via Karanga Camp (3,995m) – Reach Barafu Camp (4,680m) – Summit Preparation
Today starts with the thrilling ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep and rocky ridge that requires some scrambling while rewarding you with breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys. After conquering the wall, the trail winds through alpine terrain toward Karanga Camp for lunch before continuing to Barafu Camp (4,680m). An early dinner and rest at camp prepare you for the upcoming midnight summit push.
- Distance: 17 km
- Hiking Time: 11–14 hours
- Elevation Gain: ↑ 1,215 m, ↓ 2,795 m
- Overnight: Barafu Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,680m) – Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m) – Summit Day
Your summit day begins around midnight, trekking through freezing temperatures beneath a star-filled sky. You will reach Stella Point (5,756m) by sunrise, then make the final push to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 5,895m. Take in the breathtaking views and savor this once-in-a-lifetime achievement before descending to Barafu Camp for a short rest. The trek continues down to Millennium Camp (3,820m) for your final night on the mountain.
- Time: 11–15 hours
- Hiking Time: 10 –14 hours
- Elevation Gain: ↑ 1,215 m, ↓ 2,075 m
- Overnight at Mweka Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 7: Millennium Camp (3,820m) – Descend to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha or Moshi
On your final day, you’ll descend through the lush montane rainforest, taking in the sights and sounds of Kilimanjaro’s vibrant lower slopes. The trail may be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so trekking poles and careful footing are recommended.
Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you’ll be awarded your well-deserved summit certificate by the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, a proud moment celebrating your successful climb to Uhuru Peak. Your Hike Kilimanjaro driver will then transfer you to Mweka Village, where a freshly prepared picnic lunch awaits.
After lunch, continue the return journey to Arusha or Moshi, providing the perfect opportunity to reflect on your unforgettable adventure and celebrate your accomplishment of conquering Africa’s highest mountain.
- Time: 11–15 hours
- Hiking Time: 10 –14 hours
- Elevation Gain: ↑ 1,215 m, ↓ 2,075 m
- Overnight at Mweka Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 8: Departure Day – Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
After breakfast, and according to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
- Breakfast included
Note:
Check-out time at the hotel is 10:00 AM. If your flight is scheduled for the evening or night, you may book a day-use room to rest and freshen up before your departure. Please inform us in advance if you would like us to reserve a room for you.
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
- This trek operates year-round, subject to weather conditions.
- A valid passport copy is required for park registration.
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is highly recommended.
- A good level of physical fitness is required for this trek.
- Proper mountain trekking gear is essential, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, and suitable hiking boots.
- Temperatures on the mountain can vary significantly, from warm at lower altitudes to below freezing near the summit.
- Rental trekking equipment is available at an additional cost.
- Summit success depends on individual fitness, weather conditions, and acclimatization.
- Extra acclimatization days can be arranged upon request at an additional cost.
- International flights are not included.
- Tanzania visa fees are not included.
- Tips for mountain guides, porters, and cooks are not included.
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs are not included.
- More than 60 days before departure: Deposit refundable less bank charges.
- 30–59 days before departure: a 50% cancellation fee applies.
- 15–29 days before departure: 75% cancellation fee.
- Less than 15 days before departure: a 100% cancellation fee applies.
The most convenient airport for Kilimanjaro climbers is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located about 45 km from Moshi and 50 km from Arusha. Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd can arrange airport transfers between JRO and your hotel for an additional cost. Just share your flight details in advance, and we’ll handle the rest.
Alternative Airports:
If you cannot fly directly to Kilimanjaro, you may consider Nairobi International Airport (NBO) in Kenya or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. From these airports, you can connect to Kilimanjaro via a short domestic flight or a shuttle/private transfer to Moshi or Arusha, where your trek begins. Nairobi is closer to Kilimanjaro than Dar es Salaam and often provides more international flight options.
International Flights to Kilimanjaro (JRO):
Several major airlines offer direct flights to Kilimanjaro, including KLM (Amsterdam), Condor (Frankfurt), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), Kenya Airways (Nairobi), Precision Air (Nairobi), Qatar Airways (Doha), Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa), and RwandAir (Kigali). If direct flights are unavailable from your location, you can connect via Dar es Salaam or Nairobi.
Domestic Flights within Tanzania:
Regular domestic flights are operated by Precision Air, Air Tanzania, Fly540, Regional Air, ZanAir, Coastal Aviation, and Air Excel.
Shuttle and Private Transfers:
We can arrange daily shuttle services between Nairobi, Arusha, and Moshi for an additional fee. For more comfort and flexibility, private transfers are also available between Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Mombasa and Arusha/Moshi. Please contact us for current rates and arrangements.
Check Availability
Price Includes
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
- All park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
- Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
- Private portable toilet for group use on the mountain
- Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
- Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
- Comfortable, high-quality, four-season mountain tents (shared by two climbers)
- Sleeping mattress
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
- Drinking water (filtered and treated)
- Table and chairs for meals at camp
- Mess tent for dining and shelter
- Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
- Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
- Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- Pre-climb briefing with your guide
Price Excludes
- International airfare to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania entry visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel)
- Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required)
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry)
- Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol)
- Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek
- Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost)
- Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices
Packing List for Machame Route 6 Days Hike
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek with Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd, we recommend the following essential gear and equipment. Proper preparation is key to enjoying your climb and reaching the summit successfully.
- Sun hat or cap (wide-brimmed or with neck cover is ideal)
- Knitted hat / Beanie (for warmth at higher altitudes)
- Scarf / Neck Gaiter / Buff (highly recommended for dust, wind, and cold)
- Headlamp (with extra batteries – essential for summit night)
- Sunglasses (with high UV protection and polarized lenses)
Torso (Upper Body Clothing)
- Technical fabric base layers (1 light for warmer days, 1 heavier for cold conditions; synthetic or merino wool preferred)
- Technical trekking shirts – 2 short-sleeve and 2 long-sleeve (breathable, moisture-wicking)
- Fleece jacket or pullover (for insulation during cool evenings and mornings)
- Insulated down or synthetic jacket (optional but highly recommended for extra warmth on summit night)
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (with hood; Gore-Tex or similar material to protect against rain and wind)
Lower Body (Legwear)
- Technical fabric base layer leggings (lightweight for warmer days, heavier thermal for cold nights)
- Hiking pants (2 pairs; lightweight, quick-dry, and breathable)
- Comfortable pants (for relaxing at camp and sleeping, such as joggers or fleece pants)
- Waterproof and windproof shell pants (to wear over hiking pants in rain or high winds; essential)
- Hiking shorts (optional – for the lower, warmer sections of the mountain)
Hands
- Lightweight liner gloves (wool or technical fabric; good for mild conditions and as a base layer)
- Insulated outer gloves or mittens (waterproof and windproof; essential for summit night and cold weather)
Feet
- Warm socks (wool or technical fabric; essential for cold nights and summit day)
- Hiking socks (several pairs; moisture-wicking and breathable)
- Liner socks (optional, such as silk or synthetic, to help prevent blisters)
- Trekking/Hiking boots (waterproof, insulated, and well broken-in)
- Ice Cleats / Micro Spikes (recommended from December to February) – helpful for icy or slippery conditions on the higher slopes.
- Casual shoes (for wearing around camp after trekking, such as sneakers or slip-ons)
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy-duty for snow during the wet season)
- Tip: Bring enough socks to change regularly, keeping your feet dry and blister-free.
- Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit and essential medications during the trek. However, we highly recommend bringing your own personal kit with any specific items you may need.)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher; essential for high-altitude sun exposure)
- Lip balm (with SPF protection)
- Antiseptic ointment (for cuts, blisters, or minor wounds)
- Cough syrup (dry air and cold temperatures can irritate the throat)
- Mosquito repellent (for lower elevations or time spent before/after the trek)
- Tip: Always consult with your doctor before traveling to ensure you have the right medications for high-altitude trekking.
Other Essentials
- Passport (valid, with necessary visas)
- Reusable water bottles (2 bottles of 1L each are recommended)
- Hydration bladder (like a CamelBak, 2–3L capacity, useful for summit night)
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (optional, as filtered water is provided, but good as backup)
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Quick-dry towel (small or medium size)
- High-protein snacks (such as energy bars, trail mix, or nuts).
- Waterproof/dry bags (to protect important documents, electronics, and money)
- Airline tickets (Please leave a copy of your flight details with our office for coordination and in case of schedule changes.)
- Tip: Always keep important documents in sealed, waterproof pouches to protect them from rain and moisture.
Optional
Once you are in Tanzania, you have the option to rent all necessary gear from us or purchase supplies and hiking equipment if you have spare time before your trek. Our guide will be happy to assist you in finding and buying any required gear.
Important Luggage and Gear Information
Each participant is allowed one duffel bag, which should weigh between 10 to 14 kg. This bag will be carried by our porters throughout the trek.
You will also need to carry your own daypack (with a waterproof cover) for daily essentials such as cash, important documents, water bottle or hydration bladder, camera, snacks, energy bars, toiletries, sunscreen, extra clothing layers, and other personal items.
Any extra luggage (non-trekking items) can be safely stored at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi during the trek.
Gear Rentals:
Down jacket with hood (mandatory above 4,000m): Available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd. for USD 30
Sleeping bag (suitable for high-altitude cold conditions): Available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro. for USD 30
Note: All essential mountain gear is available for rent.
Machame Route 6 Days Hike Map
Frequently Asked Questions
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These full and frank reviews are from travelers who have traveled with Hike Kilimanjaro previously. The reviews and experiences shown here are from reputable travel websites like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot, etc.
Similar Kilimanjaro Treks
USD 2,340 / person
See Group Booking Discount
No. of People
Price per person
-
1 Pax $ 2,680
-
2 Pax $ 2,340
-
3 - 6 Pax $ 2,250
-
7 - 10 Pax $ 2,115
-
11+ Pax $ 1920
Speak to an Expert
Maxon
- WhatsApp +255 692 406 444




