Kilimanjaro Climb Tour Overview
The 6 Days Machame Route—also known as the Whiskey Route—is one of the most popular and scenic ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for its diverse landscapes, excellent acclimatization profile, and high summit success rate, this route takes you through lush rainforest, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and Barranco Valley before pushing toward the glacier-covered summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
The route is challenging but highly rewarding, perfect for trekkers seeking a mix of adventure, beauty, and a strong summit opportunity.
Tour Highlights
✔️ One of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and rewarding routes
✔️ Trek through rainforest, Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall & alpine deserts
✔️ Excellent acclimatization with “climb high, sleep low”
✔️ Overnight at the iconic Barafu Base Camp
✔️ Summit attempt to Uhuru Peak at 5,895m
✔️ Fully guided trek with professional mountain team
✔️ Ideal for adventurous and fit climbers
Day by Day Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi – Machame Gate (1,640m) – Machame Camp (2,835m)
Your day begins with a drive from Moshi to Machame Gate for registration. The trek starts through a dense, humid rainforest filled with mossy trees, flowers, and birdlife. A steady ascent leads you to Machame Camp, where you will have dinner and rest.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Environment: Rainforest
Day 2: Machame Camp (2,835m) – Shira Camp (3,750m)
Today’s route leaves the forest and enters the heather and moorland zone. The trail becomes steeper as you climb to the edge of the Shira Plateau, offering magnificent views of Kibo Peak. You’ll arrive at Shira Camp in the afternoon for rest and acclimatization.
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Environment: Moorland / Shira Plateau
Day 3: Shira Camp (3,750m) – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
This is a key acclimatization day. You ascend steadily toward the Lava Tower, reaching 4,630m for lunch. Afterward, descend into the Barranco Valley, one of the most scenic areas of the entire route. Sleeping at a lower altitude improves your acclimatization.
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Environment: Alpine Desert & Valley
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall—a steep but non-technical climb offering spectacular views. After conquering the wall, you follow undulating terrain to the Karanga Valley, a short but important acclimatization day.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Environment: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,035m) – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
A gradual ascent takes you to Barafu Camp, the final base before your summit push. Barafu offers breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak. Eat early, rest, and prepare for the midnight summit climb.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Environment: Arctic Zone
Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,640m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. You climb slowly but steadily to Stella Point (5,756m) and continue across the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours (total)
Environment: Arctic to Rainforest
END POINT: Mweka Camp (overnight), exit next morning at Mweka Gate (standard for a 6-day route)
Best Time to Climb
January–February (best weather, warm and clear)
June–October (dry, stable, high summit success)
Packing Essentials
Warm layers & thermal wear
Waterproof jacket & pants
Quality hiking boots
Headlamp with extra batteries
CamelBak or hydration system
Trekking poles
Why Choose the Machame Route?
High success rate due to excellent acclimatization
Most scenic path on Kilimanjaro
Perfect for adventurous climbers wanting a rewarding challenge
Beautiful campsites with varied landscapes each day
Tour Inclusions
✅ Accommodation as per itinerary
✅ Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✅ All ground transport & airport transfers
✅ Professional guide/driver & support crew
✅ Park, conservation, or trekking permits
✅ Scheduled activities and experiences
✅ First aid & safety support
✅ Equipment for camping or trekking (if included)
✅ Boats or ferries (if included)
✅ Beach & marine activity access (if included)
Tour Exclusions
❌ International flights
❌ Personal items & luggage
❌ Alcoholic & soft drinks (unless specified)
❌ Tips & gratuities for guides/staff
❌ Optional tours not listed in itinerary
❌ Travel/medical insurance
❌ Personal medical expenses
❌ Special equipment not mentioned (e.g., trekking poles, scuba gear)
Our Customer Reviews:
This 2-day safari was absolutely amazing! From the moment we were picked up in Arusha, everything was perfectly organized. Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the game drives unforgettable. We saw elephants, lions, buffalo, and even a rhino in Ngorongoro Crater! The lodges were comfortable, meals were delicious, and the private safari experience gave us complete flexibility. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a short but unforgettable Tanzanian adventure!
I booked this safari with my family and it exceeded all expectations. Tarangire and Ngorongoro are breathtaking, and our guide made every moment special. The private vehicle meant we could stop and take photos whenever we wanted. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and adventure. Definitely worth every dollar!
