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Machame Route – 6 or 7 Days | Most Popular Kilimanjaro Climbing Route

The Machame Route, also known as the 'Whiskey Route,' is the most scenic and popular way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This 6 or 7-day trek offers stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to glacial peaks, making it a favorite among adventure seekers. With a high success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile, the Machame Route is ideal for climbers looking for a rewarding challenge. Ready to conquer Africa's highest peak? Discover why this route is the top choice for Kilimanjaro climbers!

Destination Mount Kilimanjaro - Machame Route
Duration 6-7 Days
Tour Type Mountain Climbing with Camping
Best for Experienced hikers, Scenic views, High success rate

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Moshi Hotel

Arrival
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel in Moshi
Afternoon
Briefing by your mountain guide and equipment check
Evening
Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead

Day 2: Moshi to Machame Gate – Hike to Machame Camp

Moshi Hotel

Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m (5,905ft to 9,840ft)

Distance: 11 km (7 miles)

Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Start the trek through lush rainforest, spotting monkeys and exotic birds along the way
Arrive at Machame Camp for dinner and overnight stay

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Moshi Hotel

Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m (9,840ft to 12,600ft)

Distance: 5 km (3 miles)

Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Climb steeply through the forest and onto open moorland with stunning views of Kibo Peak
Overnight at Shira Camp with breathtaking sunset views

Day 4: Shira Camp to Lava Tower – Descend to Barranco Camp

Moshi Hotel

Elevation: 3,840m to 4,630m (12,600ft to 15,190ft), then down to 3,960m (13,000ft)

Distance: 10 km (6 miles)

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Habitat: Semi-desert

A crucial acclimatization day as you ascend to Lava Tower and then descend to Barranco Camp
Enjoy stunning views of the Western Breach and prepare for the famous Barranco Wall climb

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (7-day route only)

Moshi Hotel

Note: If on a 6-day itinerary, you skip this and go directly to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m (13,000ft to 13,250ft)

Distance: 5 km (3 miles)

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Climb the challenging but fun Barranco Wall and trek across valleys to Karanga Camp
Great acclimatization day before the summit push

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (Day 5 for 6-day trekkers)

Moshi Hotel

Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m (13,250ft to 15,220ft)

Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

A short but steep hike to Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit push
Early dinner and rest before the midnight ascent

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak – Descend to Mweka Camp (Summit Day!)

Moshi Hotel

Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (15,220ft to 19,341ft), then down to 3,080m (10,100ft)

Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 10–14 hours

Habitat: Arctic zone, then moorland

Start trekking at midnight, reaching Stella Point (5,756m) by sunrise
Final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa!
Descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi

Moshi Hotel

Elevation: 3,080m to 1,640m (10,100ft to 5,380ft)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

Hiking Time: 3–5 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

A scenic descent through lush rainforest back to Mweka Gate
Receive your Kilimanjaro Climbing Certificate and transfer back to Moshi for celebration

Accommodation Options:

Package Inclusions:

  • Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
  • Park fees & camping fees
  • Hut accommodations
  • All meals on the mountain
  • Drinking water
  • Emergency oxygen & first aid
  • Transportation from Moshi/Arusha to Marangu Gate & back

Not Included:

  • International flights
  • Tips for guides & porters
  • Personal climbing gear (can be rented)

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