Rating score 5.0 of 5

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek via Machame Route

Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking via Marangu Route

The 6-day Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse terrain, the route provides climbers with stunning views of rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers on their way to Uhuru Peak.

This trek begins from the southern base of the mountain and ascends through lush forests, the Shira Plateau, and the Lava Tower before reaching the summit via the dramatic Barafu Camp route. Though physically demanding due to the steep sections and shorter acclimatization time, the Machame Route is well-suited for those with good fitness levels and determination.

Climbers on this route enjoy the benefits of the “climb high, sleep low” principle, which helps improve acclimatization and increases summit success rates. It’s the perfect choice for trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.

Trip Highlights

  • Summit Africa’s Highest Peak
  • Diverse Landscapes
  • Barranco Wall Challenge
  • Efficient Acclimatization
  • Popular Scenic Route
  • Expert Support Crew

Trip Features

Start Date

Can start any day

Duration

6 Days

diamond-gem

Comfort

Challenging

Tour Type

Private Tour

workflow

Tour Plan

Customizable
Itinerary

trolleybus

Transport

Toyota Hiace
Minivans / Bus

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch
& Dinner

Airport

Kilimanjaro Int.
Airport

Trek Itinerary

Arrival Day

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our friendly team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, the gateway to Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed climb briefing and gear check. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for your adventure. Overnight stay in Moshi.

  • Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in Moshi Town
  • Meal Plan: Dinner

Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat

Tulivu has always been in our hearts, even though opening a boutique hotel wasn’t something we initially envisioned. Our passion for hosting family and friends, creating unforgettable experiences, and sharing fine dining brought us so much joy over the years. Eventually, we realized this warmth and hospitality could be shared with others. That’s when the idea for Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat and Campsite was born.

Panama Hotel Moshi

Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in Africa, Panama Garden Resort is a three-star elegant resort, an ideal place for unique moments of relaxation. The surroundings feature beautiful gardens filled with local flowers and trees, along with an outdoor pool, pool bar, BBQ corner, outdoor garden area with catering setup, children’s playground, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a fully stocked curio shop, and complimentary parking.

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel.
  • Altitude: 1,800m to 3,000m
  • Distance: 11 km | Time: 5–7 hours

Begin your journey with a trek through lush rainforest filled with birds and monkeys. The trail can be muddy, but the gradual ascent helps warm up your legs. Arrive at Machame Camp for dinner and overnight.

  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Altitude: 3,000m to 3,850m
  • Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–6 hours

Climb out of the forest and into the moorland zone with spectacular views of Shira Ridge. The path gets steeper, but the stunning surroundings keep you energized. Arrive at Shira Camp for acclimatization and rest.

  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Altitude: 3,850m to 4,630m (Lava Tower), then down to 3,976m
  • Distance: 10 km | Time: 6–8 hours

Today is a key acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower for lunch and exposure to high altitude, then descend to Barranco Camp. The “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps prepare your body for the summit.

  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Altitude: 3,976m to 4,673m
  • Distance: 9 km | Time: 7–9 hours

Start by scaling the Barranco Wall—an exciting and scenic climb. Traverse across alpine valleys before reaching Barafu Camp. After dinner and rest, prepare for your summit attempt, which begins just before midnight.

  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Altitude: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,068m
  • Distance: 17 km | Time: 12–16 hours

Begin your summit push in the dark, navigating steep switchbacks and scree to Stella Point, then on to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. After photos and celebration, descend back to Barafu, then onward to Mweka Camp.

  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Altitude: 3,100m to 1,800m
  • Distance: 10 km | Time: 3–4 hours

Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. After receiving your summit certificates, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and celebration. Overnight in Moshi.

  • Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in Moshi Town
  • Meal Plan: Dinner

Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat

Tulivu has always been in our hearts, even though opening a boutique hotel wasn’t something we initially envisioned. Our passion for hosting family and friends, creating unforgettable experiences, and sharing fine dining brought us so much joy over the years. Eventually, we realized this warmth and hospitality could be shared with others. That’s when the idea for Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat and Campsite was born.

Panama Hotel Moshi

Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in Africa, Panama Garden Resort is a three-star elegant resort, an ideal place for unique moments of relaxation. The surroundings feature beautiful gardens filled with local flowers and trees, along with an outdoor pool, pool bar, BBQ corner, outdoor garden area with catering setup, children’s playground, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a fully stocked curio shop, and complimentary parking.

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel.

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If you’re continuing with a safari or Zanzibar beach holiday, we’ll assist with smooth connections. Your Kilimanjaro adventure concludes with a deep sense of achievement, new friendships, and incredible memories from Africa’s rooftop.

Trek Cost Include

  • Transport to and from
  • Allowance for the crew
  • First aid kit and oxygen
  • tank for an emergency
  • Park fees / VAT
  • Rescue car
  • Two nights accommodation in the hotel
  • Pick and drop off at the airport
  • Sleeping tent
  • Table and chairs
  • Three delicious meals a day
  • Morning call before wake up
  • Ginger tea for the summit day
  • Hot water for wash served on the small basin

Trek Cost Does Not Include

  • Drinks at the hotel
  • Personal belongings
  • Tips for the crew
  • Taxi service
  • Health insurance
  • Flight tickets

Gear

Enhance Your Kilimanjaro Experience with Optional Gear Add-ons All equipment is subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
  • Private Toilet – $150 per trip
    Enjoy added privacy and comfort with a personal portable toilet for your group.

  • Private Tent – $5 per day
    Perfect for solo climbers or those who prefer not to share sleeping space.

  • Kailas X3 III Alpine Tent with Vestibule – $10 per day
    A high-performance alpine tent offering extra space and weather protection. (Click here for specifications)

  • Thicker Sleeping Mattress – $10 per mattress
    Upgrade to a thicker foam mattress for improved sleep and insulation.

  • Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pad – $15 per pad
    A premium self-inflating pad for maximum comfort and warmth on the mountain.

Our packages by default include a foam sleeping mattress of 2 inch thickness, if you want a thicker alternative you can opt a 4 inch foam mattress with above mentioned extra cost.

Transfers

We offer the following transfer options
  • Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Moshi – $50
  • Moshi to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) – $50
  • Arusha to Moshi – $100
  • Moshi to Arusha – $100
All transfers are private and operated by trusted drivers. Pre-booking is recommended.

Options & Extensions

Book Tour

Powered by NEX-Forms
Our Clients Testimonials

Similar Packages

Why ETA?

Explore Trekking Adventures (ETA) offers expertly guided treks, authentic cultural experiences, and responsible travel. With local knowledge, quality gear, and personalized service, ETA ensures safe, unforgettable journeys across East Africa.

Climbing Kilimanjaro Articles