Machame Route 6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – currently the most popular Kilimanjaro trail for those looking for a challenge, Machame route, also referred to as the “Whisky route” because of its hardness so requires whisky. It is one of the most scenic and beautiful Kilimanjaro routes most importantly the views from Shira plateau.
Machame Route 6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing itinerary.
The days on Machame are longer and the walks are steeper and accommodation is in tents. The Machame route is normally completed in a minimum of 6 days.
Elevation (metres): 1800m to 3020m – Distance: 11 kms – Hiking Time: 5-7 hrs
After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate for the start of your Kilimanjaro climb. Upon registering with the park authorities, trek through the dense Montane forest to Machame Camp. The gradient is gradual as the forest merges into giant heather land.
Elevation (metres): 3020m to 3840m – Distance: 5kms – Hiking Time: 4-6 Hrs
Although considered to be the easiest day on the Machame route, today’s trek includes several uphill sections. Carry plenty of drinking water, as the exposed hike can be hot on a clear day. There are several viewpoints from which you can see the plains and forests below and Kibo and Mawenzi peaks above.
As you gain altitude, notice the change in vegetation. The trees diminish in size, giving way to Kilimanjaro’s famous high altitude plants. After eating lunch, climb the Shira Plateau; created when Kibo’s lava flows filled the Shira crater. Continue to Shira Camp, where you will relax for the rest of the day. Kibo lies to the west and Mount Meru to the east.
Elevation (metres): 3840m to 4630m to 3950m – Distance: 10Kms – Hiking Time: 6-8 Hrs
After breakfast, hike East on the Shira Plateau passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the lava tower; the highest point of the day, faster hikers can take a detour via Lava Tower. We now descend to the Barranco camp; here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight.
Although this up and down day ends with an elevation gain of only 110 meters, by early afternoon you will have climbed 790 meters before beginning your descent to Barranco Camp. This day is crucial for acclimatisation and will help your body prepare for the summit day.
Elevation (metres): 3950m to 4645m – Distance: 9Kms – Hiking Time: 7-8 hrs
Trek across the floor of the Great Barranco valley, crossing several streams, up to a huge boulder at the base of the Barranco wall. From the top of Barranco wall you will go down into the Karanga valley before continuing to Barafu Camp, enjoy the stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Try to sleep upon finishing dinner as you will wake before midnight for your summit hike.
Optional: Extra Day
Elevation (metres): 4645m to 5895m to 3090m
Distance and Hiking Time:
Around midnight, begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak; the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. For the next 6 hours, hike by the light of your headlamp. The ascent to the crater rim is the most challenging part of the entire trek. The trail is very steep until you reach the crater rim at Stella Point, from here, the trail continues for another 60 minutes to Uhuru Peak
Upon reaching Uhuru, enjoy the amazing views and take photos of your group at the peak before beginning the descent to Mweka Camp. On the way down from Uhuru, enjoy views of the mountain, crater, clouds and glaciers. Stop at Barafu Camp for a hot breakfast and a short break before continuing with the descent to Mweka Camp.
Elevation (metres): 3090m to 1640m – Distance: 10Kms – Hiking Time: 4-5 hrs
After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate. Each hiker will receive a certificate of achievement for the successful climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village for a transfer to Moshi. It is time for celebrations!
