6 Day Machame Route

Day 1 of 6: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (1800m – 3000m)
The first day of the 6-day Machame route begins with a drive to the Machame trail (1800m). As you ascend, you’ll traverse the lush lower slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, appreciating the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest. The hike leads to the first campsite, Machame Camp, positioned at 3000m above sea level. The journey takes approximately 5-7 hours, with a lunch break halfway to Machame Hut. Walking through the rainforest offers glimpses of monkeys, various birds, and colorful flowers, providing a scenic and immersive experience.

Day 2 of 6: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Campsite (3000m – 3800m)
Day two of the 6-day Machame route involves a shorter but steeper hike. With guidance from experienced guides, you’ll transition through the savannah, ascending through lower alpine moorland adorned with vibrant wildflowers, Giant Lobelia, and giant groundsel (senecio) plants. The route leads west across the Shira Plateau, offering direct views of Kibo, the ultimate goal of the trek, if the weather is clear.

Camping at Shira Cave Campsite (3840m), you’ll enjoy lunch at the campsite. After a brief rest, an additional hike to Shira Two Hut for acclimatization follows, providing opportunities to interact with trekkers from other routes like Lemosho and Shira. The view of Shira Peak and Shira Plateau enhances the experience. Return to Shira Cave Campsite for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3 of 6: Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp ( 3800m – 3950m)
On day three of the 6-day Machame route, the journey turns east, and the ascent continues gradually through rocky and barren terrain. Taking it “pole pole” (slowly, slowly), you’ll ascend to the Lava Tower (4630m) for lunch, experiencing increasingly challenging landscapes. Following the rocky scree path, there’s a descent of over 600m for two hours into the Great Barranco Valley.

The descent offers breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities of the Western Breach and Breach Wall. The benefits of acclimatization become apparent as you lose altitude, reaching the Barranco Camp at 3950m. The day’s hiking duration is approximately 7-8 hours.

Day 4 of 6: Barranco Camp 3950m / Karanga Camp 3950m (Barafu base camp for the 6 days climbers 4600m)
On day four of the 6-day Machame route, the itinerary offers different options based on the number of days chosen by climbers. For those on a six-day trek, the day involves heading directly to Barafu Base Camp (4600m). Meanwhile, those on a seven-day trek tackle the Great Barranco Wall, an imposing face above the camp at 3950m.

A steady climb up the eastern wall takes you just below the Heim Glacier, providing awesome views of Mt. Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak. The trail continues down into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley. For seven-day climbers, Karanga Hut is the stop for the night, while six-day climbers proceed directly to Barafu Base Camp.

Day 5 of 6: Karanga Hut to Barafu Base Camp (3930m – 4600m)
On day five of the 6-day Machame route, climbers will proceed from Karanga Hut to Barafu Base Camp, situated at an elevation of 4600m. The hike is relatively short, lasting around 3-4 hours, leading through an alpine desert with excellent views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

After arriving at Barafu Base Camp, lunch will be served, and climbers will have some time to rest before the challenging midnight summit ascent. The trek to the summit starts around 12:00 midnight, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak (5895m) at around 7:30 in the morning, offering breathtaking views of the sunrise, Mount Meru, and the Northern ice field with the Crater.

Following the summit experience, climbers will descend to the base camp, have lunch, and take a short rest before continuing the descent to the last camp, either Millennium or Mweka Camp.

Day 6 of 6: Mweka Camp 3100m or Millennium Camp 3700m to Mweka Gate to Arusha
On the final day of the 6-day Machame route, climbers will descend from Mweka Camp (3100m) or Millennium Camp (3700m) to Mweka Gate. Enjoy the lush forest surroundings and higher oxygen levels as you complete this adventure. Upon reaching the Mweka gate, successful hikers will receive their summit certificates.

From the Mweka Gate, continue the descent into Mweka village for lunch, typically a muddy 1-hour hike. At the Mweka gate, meet the driver, receive certificates, and depart for Arusha. Upon arrival in the afternoon, you can relax or enjoy a well-deserved shower. The total hiking time is approximately 4-5 hours from Millennium Camp or 3 hours from Mweka Camp.

Finally, you will be transferred to the airport for departure.

What does this Machame Route cost?

Includes & Excludes

Included
Ground transport for all the above days
Accommodation (two nights in Arusha Before and after the trekking) and all the night at Kilimanjaro
All park fees
Rescue fees
Guides, porters and cooks salaries
Three meals a day

Excluded
All other items of a personal nature
Tips to your guide
Soft drinks other than the mineral water
Alcoholic beverages
Person mountain gears such as sleeping bags, Rain gears( see list below)

Kilimanjaro Packing List

We’ve compiled a detailed Trekking Packing List to help you prepare for your adventure.

KEY MT. KILIMANJARO PACKING TIPS:

• Porters carry your main duffel bag, which must not exceed 15 kg (35 pounds). Any extra weight requires an additional porter.
• Pack clothing in durable, waterproof stuff sacks.
• Your daypack should include water, sunglasses, a camera, binoculars, and rain gear.
• You won’t have access to your main luggage until the day’s trek is over.
• Bring extra batteries, as cold weather shortens their lifespan.
• Critical gear, especially boots, should be carried on the plane with you in case of baggage delays.

Packs & Bags:
• Your daypack should be comfortable and spacious enough to carry your daily essentials, including rain gear, layers, and water.
• Ensure your daypack has a hydration bladder compartment and space for water bottles.

Water & Snacks:
• Stay hydrated with a 2-3 liter hydration bladder and wide-mouth water bottles. Electrolyte drink mixes are recommended to keep hydrated.
• Pack energy bars or other high-calorie snacks for quick energy boosts during the trek.

Footwear & Trekking Poles:
• Choose well-worn, comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support and a rugged sole. Avoid sneakers or trainers.
• Gaiters help keep debris out of your boots and keep your pants clean.
• Layer your socks, with a moisture-wicking liner and a cushioned outer sock. Avoid cotton.
• Consider using trekking poles for better balance and reduced fatigue.

Clothing Essentials:
• Your base layer should be breathable and moisture-wicking; avoid cotton.
• Mid-layers should provide insulation, and outer layers should be waterproof and breathable.
• Clothing should be lightweight, quick-drying, and hand-washable.
• Pack clothing for hiking, resting in the evening, and sleeping. Layering is key as temperatures can vary greatly.
• Never stay in wet clothing; change into dry clothes immediately upon reaching camp.
• Ensure your base layer wicks sweat away from your body, your mid-layer retains body heat, and your outer layer protects from wind and rain.
• The mountain’s weather is unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes.

Lighting & Sleeping Gear:
• A lightweight head torch with spare batteries is essential for navigating camp at night and during the summit bid.
• A 4-season rated sleeping bag (0°F to -15°F or -18°C to -26°C) is crucial for warmth. Consider adding a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth and hygiene.
• Pack your sleeping bag in a waterproof compression sack.

Personal Health & Comfort:
• Sunscreen is essential due to the stronger sun at high altitudes.
• Bring toiletries, anti-bacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, and any necessary medications.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel documents, including passport, visa, and any necessary vaccinations.

Preparing well in advance and practicing with your gear will help you feel confident and ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure. For any questions or additional tips, feel free to reach out to our experienced team – we’re here to help!