6 Days Machame Route
A demanding Kilimanjaro camping trek from Machame Gate through rainforest, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco, Barafu, Uhuru Peak, and the Mweka descent.
Duration
6 Days
Trek Style
Camping trek
Route
Machame Route
Destinations
Uhuru Peak, 5,895 m
— Our Mountain Team
A scenic southern Kilimanjaro route
The Machame Route is one of Kilimanjaro's most popular trekking routes, approaching the mountain from the south after a drive from Moshi or Arusha.
This route passes through montane forest, moorland, the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Valley, Barafu Camp, and the summit zone before descending by the Mweka Route. The 6-day Machame itinerary is demanding and needs proper preparation, careful pacing, and guide assessment throughout.
The package includes
- Pick-up at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Transfer to a hotel in Arusha and back to the airport
- Accommodation before and after the trek, double rooms with breakfast included
- 24/7 phone support
- All park fees listed in the programme
- All accommodation listed in the programme
- Three meals per day during the trek
- Bottled water and soft drinks during the tour
- Thermos with hot tea or coffee
- Medical kit
- Wet wipes
The package excludes
- Air tickets
- Visa fees
- Lunch and dinner at the hotel before and after the trek
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Personal mountain gear or rentals unless confirmed in the final package
Talk to a Tanzanian expert
Tell us your dates, number of climbers, trekking experience, and any health or altitude concerns.
+255 76 928 3377— Route Overview —
Machame and Shira Camps
Forest and moorland camps used during the first two nights.
Barranco and Barafu Camps
Core Machame route camps before the summit attempt.
Mweka Camp and Gate
Descent camp and exit route after the summit attempt.
Your 6-day Machame itinerary
Machame Gate to Forest Camp
Drive to Machame Gate, complete registration, and begin through rainforest on a winding ridge trail. The lower trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles can help.
Moorland to Shira
Leave the rainforest and climb across valley, ridge, and moorland terrain toward Shira Camp, where the landscape opens onto the plateau.
Climb High, Sleep Lower
Continue toward Lava Tower at about 4,650 m, then descend to Barranco Camp. This stage is important for acclimatisation because you climb high during the day and sleep lower.
Barranco Wall to Summit Base
Climb the Barranco Wall, continue through Karanga Valley, and reach Barafu Camp. Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
Summit Attempt
Begin between midnight and 2:00 am, climbing toward Stella Point. Climbers who are strong enough and well acclimatised continue toward Uhuru Peak, then descend via Barafu to Mweka Camp.
Final Forest Descent
Descend through forest to Mweka Gate. Climbers who reached Stella Point or Uhuru Peak receive certificates where applicable, then transfer back to the hotel in Moshi.
