6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Machame Route – Scenic & Popular Summit Adventure. Our 6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Machame Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” Machame offers stunning variety—from lush rainforest to alpine desert and icy glaciers—making it a favorite for adventurous trekkers.
This Kilimanjaro trekking itinerary follows the Southern Circuit, offering panoramic views of Kibo Peak from multiple angles. Over six days, you’ll pass iconic landmarks such as the Barranco Wall, Lava Tower, and Karanga Valley, all while benefiting from a good acclimatization profile that boosts summit success rates. With Ahambi Tours’ experienced mountain team, you’ll trek safely, enjoy hearty meals, and have full camp support for an unforgettable climb.
Why Choose This 6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Machame Route
- Ascend Kilimanjaro via one of the most picturesque routes
- Complete the Southern Circuit with panoramic mountain views
- Great acclimatization profile for higher summit success rates
- Experience the Barranco Wall, Lava Tower, and Karanga Valley
- Trek with Ahambi Tours’ professional guides and full porter support
- Perfect for fit trekkers and adventure photographers
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via Machame Route
The best months to trek Kilimanjaro are January to March and June to October. These periods offer clearer skies, more stable weather, and better trail conditions, making your climb safer and more enjoyable. The January–March window is generally quieter, while June–October coincides with the main climbing season, attracting more trekkers. Avoid April–May and November when heavy rains can make the trails muddy and visibility poor.
Detailed 6 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Machame Gate – Machame Camp
Distance: 11 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Start: 1,640m | End: 2,835m
Drive from Moshi (45 mins) or Arusha (2.5 hrs) to Machame Gate for registration. Trek through lush montane rainforest, spotting monkeys and tropical birds. Trails can be muddy—trekking poles are recommended. Overnight at Machame Camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp
Distance: 5 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs | Start: 2,835m | End: 3,750m
Climb into the heath and moorland zone, crossing a rocky ridge before reaching the Shira Plateau. Overnight at Shira Camp with clear views of Kibo Peak.
Day 3: Shira Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
Distance: 10 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Start: 3,750m | High Point: 4,650m | End: 3,960m
Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend into the Barranco Valley, camped below the Barranco Wall.
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp
Distance: 9 km | Trek Time: 6–8 hrs | Start: 3,960m | End: 4,673m
Climb the Barranco Wall (4,250m), cross Karanga Valley, then ascend to Barafu Camp—your summit base.
Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Distance: 17 km | Trek Time: 10–14 hrs | Start: 4,673m | Summit: 5,895m | End: 3,110m
Start at midnight, ascend steep scree slopes to Stella Point for sunrise, then push to Uhuru Peak. Descend to Mweka Camp for overnight.
Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi/Arusha
Distance: 10 km | Trek Time: 3–4 hrs | Start: 3,110m | End: 1,640m
Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate before returning to Moshi or Arusha.
Kilimanjaro Trekking Cost – 6 Days Machame Route
| Number of People | Cost per Person (USD) |
| 1 Person | 2400 |
| 2 People | 2280 |
| 3+ People | 2100 |
Included in the Price
- Round-trip transport from Moshi or Arusha to Kilimanjaro National Park gate and back
- Certified English-speaking Kilimanjaro trekking guide for the full climb
- Experienced mountain chef to prepare all meals
- Porter services to carry main luggage (up to 15 kg per person, per park rules)
- All meals during the trek (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available)
- Drinking water throughout the trek (boiled & filtered)
- Camping accommodation with spacious tents and sleeping mats
- Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Summit certificate upon completion
- Pulse oximeter checks and basic first aid kit
- All government taxes and levies
Not Included in the Package
- Trekking gear (available for rent)
- Hotel accommodation before/after the trek (we can arrange in Moshi or Arusha)
- Domestic or international flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Tips for guides, chef, and porters
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs)
- Extra nights due to early descent
Gear List for Kilimanjaro Trekking – Machame Route
Clothing & Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots, gaiters
- Warm base layers (top/bottom)
- Fleece and insulated jacket
- Waterproof jacket & trousers
- Warm hat, gloves, buff
Trekking Gear
- Sleeping bag (-10°C or lower)
- Trekking poles, headlamp with spare batteries
- Daypack (30–35L), duffel (90–100L)
Accessories
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Hydration system, snacks
- Personal first aid kit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Is the Machame Route harder than Marangu?
Yes, Machame has steeper ascents but better scenery and a higher success rate due to its acclimatization profile.
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Can I complete the Machame Route in 6 days?
Yes, but trekkers seeking extra acclimatization may opt for the 7-day version.
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Do I need camping experience?
Not necessarily—our crew handles camp setup, meals, and logistics.
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What is the success rate for this route?
Typically 85–90% for well-prepared trekkers.
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Can I combine Machame with a Tanzania safari?
Absolutely—Ahambi Tours can create a custom climb and safari package.
Book Your 6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Machame Route
Take on Kilimanjaro’s most scenic trail with expert guidance and full support.
📧 Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke 🌐 Website: ahambitours.co.ke 📱 WhatsApp: +254 725 727167