6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Machame Route – Complete Itinerary
The Machame Route is one of the most scenic and popular routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems, the Machame Route offers a challenging yet rewarding trek. The 6-day itinerary is fast-paced but still provides good acclimatization opportunities, making it a favorite for experienced trekkers aiming for the summit in a shorter time frame.
Day by day itinarary
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Elevation: 1,800m (5,905ft) to 2,835m (9,300ft)
Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description: After registration at the Machame Gate, the trek begins through the lush rainforest. The trail is often muddy and can be steep in some sections, but you’ll be surrounded by dense greenery and unique plant species. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Machame Camp nestled in a beautiful forested area.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Elevation: 2,835m (9,300ft) to 3,850m (12,600ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description: The landscape changes from rainforest to moorland as you climb higher. The trail becomes more open, offering the first close-up views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance. You’ll cross rocky ridges and climb onto the Shira Plateau, where you’ll camp at Shira Camp with spectacular views of the summit.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,850m (12,600ft) to 4,600m (15,090ft) (Lava Tower), then descend to 3,900m (12,800ft) (Barranco Camp)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert
Description: Today is critical for acclimatization as you ascend to Lava Tower at 4,600m, a volcanic rock formation that offers stunning views. Although you’ll climb high, you’ll descend back to Barranco Camp at 3,900m to sleep. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of summit success. The day ends in the Barranco Valley, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and towering Senecio plants.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,900m (12,800ft) to 3,995m (13,106ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description: The day starts with a challenging scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that looks intimidating but is manageable with no technical climbing required. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Kibo summit and the surrounding valleys. After crossing a few more ridges, you’ll reach Karanga Camp, your base for the night.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 3,995m (13,106ft) to 4,673m (15,331ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description: Today’s hike is short but steep as you ascend through the barren alpine desert to reach Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit push. The landscape here is stark and desolate, with dramatic views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. You’ll spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the midnight summit attempt. Barafu Camp is cold and exposed, so dress warmly and prepare for a challenging night ahead.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then Descend to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,673m (15,331ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 3,100m (10,170ft) (Mweka Camp)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles) ascent, 12 km (7.5 miles) descent
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-7 hours descent)
Habitat: Arctic (at summit), Alpine Desert, Moorland
Description: Around midnight, you’ll begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. The steep trail is difficult, especially in the cold and at high altitude. You’ll first reach Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp in the moorland zone. The descent is tough on the knees, but the oxygen-rich air at lower altitudes will help you recover.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m (10,170ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description: After breakfast, you’ll continue your descent through the lush rainforest, where the trail can be muddy and slippery. The walk to Mweka Gate is short and relatively easy compared to the previous days. At the gate, you’ll sign out and receive your well-deserved summit certificate. Transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Inclusions
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Clean, purified drinking water
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Sleeping Mattress
All meals while on the Mountain
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Exclusions
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
Tanzania Visa
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Travel insurance
International and domestic flights
Tips and gratuities
Hotel (available as an optional addon)
