6 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb

Overview

Kilimanjaro climbing through the Machame route, popularly known as the “Whiskey” route, begins at Machame Gate and is located in the southern base of the mountain, within its green, abundant rainforest. This climb takes 6 days and we climb to the Shira Plateau, then traverse the mountain beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Icefield, before summiting from Barafu Hut. Machame is a good choice for people who want to enjoy a scenic hike on a challenging route in the shortest period of time.

Duration

6 Days

Price

Best time to visit

late June to October and from December to February.

6 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb

Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha

Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport. We will arrange a private transfer from Kilimanjaro International airport) to Arusha, later on, we will gather in the hotel for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.

Overnight stay:

Meals plans: Breakfast

Day 1: Machame Gate 1,640m to Machame Camp 2850 m

The climb starts from Machame gate (1800m) after a short walk through the attractive banana and coffee farms of Machame village. The path follows a ridge through a dense montane forest. This is the richest forested area on the mountain, and also the zone from where 98% of the water on Kilimanjaro originates. On sunny days, especially in the dry season is very lush and beautiful; it can also be a very muddy experience, particularly if it has rained recently, we have lunch at halfway clearing, a small opening in the trees, and continue climbing steadily. The gradient becomes gentler as the forest slowly merges into giant heather close to the next camp near the ruins of Machame Hut (3,000m). We may get our first closer look at the glaciated dome of Kibo if the evening clouds permit. (6-7 hours walking)

Meals Plans: Full Board (B, L & D)

Day 2: Machame Camp 2850m/9,800ft) to Shira Camp 3,850m

A shorter day that begins by climbing up a steep ridge to reach a small semicircular cliff known as a picnic rock. There are excellent views of Kibo and the jagged rim of the Shira Plateau from here and it is a good point too, the trail continues less steeply to reach the Shira Plateau. We camp near Shira Hut (3840m) which has some of the most stunning views on Kilimanjaro; close to the huge volcanic cone of Kibo, the spectacular rock formations of Shira Plateau, and looking across Mt. Meru floating on the clouds. (4-5 hours walking)

Meals Plans: Full Board (B, L & D)

Day 3: Shira Camp 3,850m to Barranco Camp 3,900m via Lava Tower 4,600

The route now takes you into semi-desert and rocky landscapes surrounding Lava Tower, a 300ft high volcanic rock formation. You’ll then ascend the rocky scree path to Lava Tower for great panoramic views, before a steep descent into the Barranco Valley. You may find this trek a little tougher than the previous days as some hikers usually start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Although you will finish today’s climb at almost the same elevation as you started, this is very good practice for acclimatization and will help prepare your body for summit day. Barranco Camp lies below the imposing Barranco Wall in a beautiful, sheltered valley. (5-7 hours walking)

Meals Plans: Full Board (B, L & D)

Day 4: Barranco Camp 3,900m to Barafu Camp 4,680m

After breakfast, you will begin to ascend the impressive Barranco Wall and hike glacial valleys – but don’t worry, it is easier than it looks! Lunch will be eaten at Karanga Valley, before joining the famous Mweka Trail. You will then continue along the rocky ridge for 1 to 2 hours before reaching Barafu Camp, which offers stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit from various angles. Your tents will be pitched along a narrow and rocky ridge with high winds. It’s therefore worth taking some time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings before it gets dark. Rest for the night at Barafu Camp and prepare for the upcoming hike to the summit. (7-9 hours walking)

Meals Plans: Full Board (B, L & D)

Day 5: Barafu Camp 4,680 to Uhuru Peak 5,895m then descending to Mweka Camp 3,110m

This is where the going gets tough! Just before midnight, you will venture into the night and begin your final ascent to the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro. Head northwest through the heavy stone scree following multiple switchbacks between Ratzel and Rebmann glaciers until you reach Stella Point (5,685m). This section is probably the most challenging part of the route and will require great physical and mental effort. Continue to move slowly, always listening to your guide. After a short rest at Stella Point, you will hike along the crater rim for another hour before reaching your ultimate goal – Uhuru Peak! Congratulations! You have now made it to the “Roof of Africa”. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you will be able to spend there, but it is important to start your descent within good time to ensure you get enough rest back at Barafu Camp. After your rest, you’ll gather the rest of your belongings and descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) where you’ll enjoy dinner and a well-earned sleep! (13-15 hours walking)

Meals Plans: Full Board (B, L & D)

Day 6: Mweka Camp 3,100m to Mweka Gate 1,980m

After eating breakfast, you will begin the easiest part of your adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro via a scenic path through the forest to Mweka Gate. Successful hikers who made it to Stella Point and Uhuru Peak will be awarded their certificates at the gate. Then it’s time to drive back to your hotel to enjoy a shower, dinner, and celebrations with a Kilimanjaro beer!

Meals Plans: Full Board (B, L & D)

Departure: Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast, you will be taken to Kilimanjaro Airport or you can extend your holiday with a safari or beach stay.

Meals Plan: Breakfast

What's Included

Price includes the following

  • All park fees (entry, camping, forest department, and rescue fees)
  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) while on the mountain
  • Accommodation and facilities
  • Salaries for the team crew
  • Transport to and from the gate
  • Drinking water
  • Oxygen cylinder and ox meter
  • 2 nights pre- and post-accommodation.
  • Airport pick up and drop off

What's Excluded

  • The tour price does not include the following

    • Tips for the team (guide, assistant guide, cook, and porters)
    • All personal mountain climbing gear and equipment
    • Alcoholic and soft drinks
    • Travel insurance and visa
    • Flights

     

Yes, we specialize in creating personalized tours based on your preferences, whether you’re looking for a honeymoon getaway, adventure trek, or special-interest safari. Please contact us to design a tailor-made itinerary that suits your needs.

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Subject: 6 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro Climb


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