Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route – 6, 7 or 8 DaysScenic Camping Route
Mountain Trek (Camping Route)
Machame • Shira • Barranco • Karanga • Barafu • Mweka • Uhuru Peak
Description
Climb Kilimanjaro via the scenic Machame (Whiskey) Route. This classic camping trek offers excellent acclimatization through climb-high, sleep-low profiles and iconic features like the Barranco Wall. The recommended 7–8 day plans add an acclimatization day to improve summit success.
Choose 6, 7 or 8 days: 6 days is the quicker ascent; 7–8 days add acclimatization at Karanga or via an extra night between Shira and Barranco for improved success. Fully supported with experienced mountain guides, porters, meals, park fees and transfers.
Trek Highlights
Camping route: Machame, Shira, Barranco, Karanga, Barafu; Mweka exit
Climb-high, sleep-low profile via Lava Tower and Barranco
Optional acclimatization day at Karanga (7–8 day plans)
Summit attempt from Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
Experienced mountain guides, porters and meals included
Itinerary
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
5–7 hours • 10–11km • ~1,800m to ~3,000m
Transfer to Machame Gate for registration. Trek through lush montane forest to Machame Camp. Dinner and overnight in tents.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
4–6 hours • ~9km • ~3,000m to ~3,840m
Climb out of forest into moorland, crossing ridges to the Shira Plateau. Overnight at Shira Camp.
Day 3: Shira to Barranco via Lava Tower
6–8 hours • ~10km • ~3,840m → ~4,600m → ~3,960m
Acclimatization day: ascend to Lava Tower (~4,600m) then descend to Barranco Camp. Climb-high, sleep-low benefits. Overnight in tents.
Day 4: Barranco to Karanga (or Barafu for 6-day)
4–6 hours • 5–9km • ~3,960m to ~4,035m (Karanga) / ~4,640m (Barafu)
Climb the famous Barranco Wall, traverse valley ridges to Karanga Camp. On 6-day plans, proceed directly to Barafu. Overnight in tents.
Day 5: Karanga to Barafu
3–4 hours • ~4km • ~4,035m to ~4,640m
Short climb to Barafu High Camp. Early dinner and rest. Prepare for the midnight summit push.
Day 6: Summit Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp
10–14 hours • 4,640m → 5,895m → ~3,110m
Start around midnight to Stella Point and Uhuru Peak. Celebrate and descend to Barafu, then continue down to Mweka Camp. Overnight in tents.
Day 7 (for 7–8 days): Exit Mweka Gate & Transfer
3–4 hours • ~10km • ~3,110m to ~1,640m
Descend through forest to Mweka Gate for sign-out and certificate collection. Transfer back to Moshi/Arusha. Trip ends.
Includes & Excludes
Kilimanjaro park fees and camping fees
Certified mountain guide, porters and cook
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Drinking water during the trek
Transfers: Moshi/Arusha ↔ Machame Gate / Mweka Gate
Rescue fees and government taxes
International flights and Tanzania visa
Travel & medical insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, sleeping bag)
Hotels before/after trek and meals in town
Tips for crew (guide, porters, cook)
Optional personal snacks and alcoholic beverages
Frequently Asked Questions
The best seasons are June–October and January–March for stable weather and clearer skies. Expect cold nights near Barafu and potential rains in April–May and November. We’ll advise the ideal window based on your dates.
Machame is a camping route. We provide four-season tents, sleeping mattresses and hot meals prepared by our mountain crew. There are no huts along the Machame trail. Bring a warm sleeping bag and personal toiletries.
Machame is considered moderate to challenging with a rewarding climb-high, sleep-low profile. The 7–8 day itineraries improve acclimatization and success. Suitable for fit trekkers; regular training (hikes, cardio) and proper gear are important.
Essential items: sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing, waterproof jacket/pants, warm hat and gloves, headlamp with spare batteries, trekking poles, SPF sunscreen, 3L hydration system, personal meds, and a 4-season sleeping bag. A detailed packing list will be provided.
We generally recommend Kilimanjaro treks for ages 12+ with good fitness. Altitude affects everyone differently; minors must trek with a responsible adult and follow guide advice. Contact us to assess suitability for your family and choose the right plan.
Kilimanjaro Trek Details
Route
Machame Route (Whiskey Route)
Duration
5 or 6 Days
Huts
Machame • Shira • Barranco • Karanga • Barafu • Mweka
Max Altitude
Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
Accommodation
Mountain huts (shared dorms)
Start & Exit
Marangu Gate
Best For
First-time trekkers seeking hut comfort
Trek Price
$Upon Request / Per Person
Price depends on route choice, group size & season
Why Book With Us
Expertise and Experience
Tailored Services
Comprehensive Planning
Client Satisfaction
24/7 Support
Contact Details
Mr. Yamat
Tour Operator
Call Us : +255 686 241 980
Email : info@safarismate.com
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