Machame in 6 days
Duration - 6 days
Nicknamed the "Whiskey" route, the Machame Route is renowned for being slightly more challenging and more expensive than the Marangu Route, making it a preferred choice for those seeking an adventurous and rewarding climb.
Among the various routes to scale Mount Kilimanjaro, the Machame Route stands out as one of the best options for acclimatization and cost-effectiveness. Its well-balanced itinerary offers trekkers ample time to adjust to the altitude, increasing the chances of reaching the Uhuru Peak successfully.
The Machame Route is ideal for adventurous hikers and climbers with prior trekking or backpacking experience. It is more physically demanding than other routes, such as the Marangu and Rongai routes, but its breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
This route is celebrated for its scenic diversity, taking climbers through five distinct climatic zones, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and icy glaciers. Highlights include panoramic views of the Shira Plateau, an exhilarating scramble up Lava Tower, the dramatic ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, and a traverse beneath Kilimanjaro’s magnificent southern ice fields.
Reasons to choose the Machame Route with Lavatoweradventure:
Superior Acclimatization: The route offers plenty of "walk high, sleep low" opportunities, crucial for altitude adaptation.
Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems unique to Mount Kilimanjaro.
Challenging but Achievable: While steeper and more demanding in certain sections, it is manageable with proper preparation and guidance.
Flexible Summit Approach: Split the pre-summit climb for better rest and higher success rates.
Expert Guides and Support: Lavatoweradventure provides experienced guides, quality camping gear, and personalized services for a safe and memorable adventure.
Although the Machame Route is immensely popular and can become crowded during peak seasons, the rewards are unmatched. With Lavatoweradventure, you can enjoy a professionally guided trek, ensuring your journey to the Roof of Africa is both safe and unforgettable.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or embarking on your first major climb, the Machame Route offers an unforgettable adventure filled with challenge, triumph, and awe-inspiring beauty. Choose Lavatoweradventure to make your Kilimanjaro dream a reality!
Itinerary: 6-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Machame Route
Experience an unforgettable adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro with Lavatoweradventure, your trusted partner for expertly guided treks in Tanzania.
Day 0: Pre-trek Briefing
For those who opt for airport transfers, Lavatoweradventure will pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
At your Moshi hotel, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where we’ll review your equipment, discuss the trek, and arrange rentals for any additional gear you may need. Plan to arrive at least one day before the trek begins.
Day 1: Hotel to Machame Camp
Your journey begins with a scenic 45-minute drive from Moshi to Machame Gate, passing through the charming Machame village at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The trek starts through the lush rainforest along a winding trail. The path can be muddy, so trekking poles and gaiters are recommended. Arrive at Machame Camp, your first overnight stop.
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3050m/9950ft
Distance: 11km/7mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Ascend from the rainforest into the moorland zone. The trail leads you over rocky ridges and across valleys until you reach the Shira Plateau. The expansive views make this trek truly spectacular.
Elevation: 3050m/9950ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
This acclimatization day includes a climb to Lava Tower at 4650m (15,250ft) before descending to Barranco Camp. You’ll cross semi-desert terrain and pass notable landmarks like the Shark’s Tooth rock formation.
Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Conquer the Barranco Wall, a steep climb with breathtaking views. The trail continues through the Karanga Valley and eventually connects to the South Circuit trail, leading to Barafu Camp. This is your base for the summit attempt.
Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 9km/6mi
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
Begin the final ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro just after midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and take in the awe-inspiring sunrise. Descend via Barafu to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft (Summit) and down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree, ice-capped summit, and forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel
Descend to Mweka Gate to receive your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate. Your Lavatoweradventure vehicle will take you back to your Moshi hotel.
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions
Professional mountain guides
High-quality sleeping tents and mattresses
Nutritious meals and clean drinking water
Park fees, conservation fees, and rescue fees
Emergency oxygen cylinders
Transfers between Moshi and Kilimanjaro
Exclusions
Tanzania Visa
Travel insurance
Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
Flights and optional hotel accommodations
BOOK WITH US
Ready to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro? Fill out the form below to start planning your unforgettable trek with Lava Tower Adventures. Our expert team will guide you every step of the way to ensure a safe and memorable experience. Let's make your dream climb a reality!
Lavatower Adventure
United Republic of Tanzania Kilimanjaro, Moshi, Soweto, Khambaita