Kilimanjaro Tours

Machame Route – 6 Days – Scenic Whiskey Trail

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route in 6 Days

The Machame Route, widely known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most scenic and popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking dramatic landscapes, varied terrain, and a rewarding challenge. Over six days, climbers journey through lush rainforest, open moorland, alpine desert, and glacial zones before reaching the iconic summit of Uhuru Peak.

With its well-designed ascent profile and diverse environments, the Machame Route offers excellent acclimatization opportunities and a higher summit success rate. Guided by experienced mountain professionals, this trek combines breathtaking scenery, physical challenge, and unforgettable moments on Africa’s highest mountain.

Trip Itinerary

Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha/Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your lodge in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, you will meet your mountain guides for a comprehensive briefing, equipment check, and final preparation for the climb. This is a time to relax, enjoy the mountain atmosphere, and mentally prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 1 – Machame Gate to Machame Camp

The ascent begins at Machame Gate, where you enter dense rainforest rich with towering trees, moss-covered roots, and vibrant birdlife. The trail is humid and alive with nature, setting a dramatic tone for the journey. After several hours of steady trekking, you arrive at Machame Camp, nestled within the forest at 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), where dinner and overnight rest await.
Day 2 – Machame Camp to Shira Camp

As you climb higher, the rainforest slowly gives way to heath and moorland. The air becomes cooler, and sweeping views open across the Shira Plateau. The landscape feels vast and otherworldly as you trek toward Shira Camp at 3,840 meters (12,600 feet). This day introduces higher altitude and prepares your body for the demanding days ahead.
Day 3 – Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Today is both challenging and crucial for acclimatization. You ascend toward Lava Tower at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), trekking through alpine desert terrain that feels raw and remote. After spending time at altitude, you descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters (12,990 feet). This “climb high, sleep low” approach greatly improves acclimatization and offers spectacular views of the Barranco Wall.
Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

The day begins with an exhilarating scramble up the Barranco Wall, a highlight of the Machame Route that rewards climbers with panoramic views. The trail then crosses ridges and valleys before reaching Barafu Camp at 4,670 meters (15,320 feet). The landscape is stark and dramatic, and the sense of anticipation builds as you rest early in preparation for summit night.
Day 5 – Summit Day & Descent to Mweka Camp

Around midnight, the summit push begins under a sky filled with stars. The climb is slow and demanding, but reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) as the sun rises is an emotional and unforgettable achievement. After celebrating at the summit, you descend carefully past Barafu Camp and continue down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet), where rest and celebration follow.
Day 6 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Night Rest in Moshi/Arusha

The final descent leads through lush forest back to Mweka Gate. Here, you receive your summit certificates before being transferred to a comfortable lodge in Moshi or Arusha for an overnight stay, allowing your body to recover after the climb.
Departure Date

Following your overnight rest, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, concluding a memorable Kilimanjaro adventure.

Suggested Lodges & Camps

Safari Cost Include

Transfers
All transfers as outlined in the itinerary, including airport transfers, gate transfers, and post-trek transfers to Moshi or Arusha.

Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation in mountain camps and lodges as described in the program.
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Bottled drinking water provided throughout the climb.

Guiding & Trekking
Services of certified and experienced English-speaking mountain guides.
Professional porters and mountain crew.
All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, including park entry, camping permits, and rescue fees.
Emergency first-aid kit and altitude monitoring throughout the trek.
Trekking equipment available upon request (sleeping bags, walking poles).

Safari Cost Excludes

Flights & Transfers
International flights to and from Tanzania.
Transfers not specified in the itinerary.

Personal Gear & Supplies
Personal trekking gear including boots, jackets, gloves, and backpacks.
Snacks, soft drinks, and personal items not listed in the program.

Insurance & Tips
Travel and medical insurance (mandatory).
Tips for guides, porters, and support crew.

Please Note

By default, our mountain adventures include shared accommodation in twin or double rooms unless otherwise requested and agreed upon. Single room supplements are available upon request. Please refer to your itinerary for specific accommodation details.
Accommodations in Moshi, Arusha, or nearby towns typically include breakfast only, unless otherwise arranged. Check your program for detailed meal plans for each night of your adventure.
Most lodges and mountain huts do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages in their standard packages, allowing you to order and pay only for what you need directly at the facility.
Tented camps or mountain lodges, the most common type of accommodation during off-the-beaten-path adventures, may operate on solar power. This can result in features such as bucket showers, limited Wi-Fi, or the absence of hair dryers, reflecting efforts to minimize environmental impact. We recommend reviewing your accommodations in advance to ensure they meet your expectations for comfort and convenience.

Machame Route – 6 Days – Scenic Whiskey Trail

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route in 6 Days

Trip Itinerary

Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha/Moshi

Day 1 – Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Day 2 – Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Day 3 – Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Day 5 – Summit Day & Descent to Mweka Camp

Day 6 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Night Rest in Moshi/Arusha

Departure Date

Suggested Lodges & Camps

Safari Cost Include

Safari Cost Excludes

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