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Trekkers hiking the trail on the Machame Route
6 Days / 5 Nights · Camping Route

Machame Route, 6 days.

One of Kilimanjaro's most popular routes, known for dramatic scenery and a varied landscape — the classic 6-day Machame itinerary.

Duration
6 Days / 5 Nights
Best For
Fit, scenic-route trekkers
Style
Camping, full-service
Difficulty
Challenging
Overview

Excellent scenery, classic pace

One of the most popular routes on Kilimanjaro, known for dramatic scenery and a varied landscape. The route uses a "climb high, sleep low" approach.

  • Excellent scenery
  • Popular camping experience
  • Challenging but rewarding
Mount Kilimanjaro summit view from the Machame Route
Day By Day

Your 6 days itinerary

Day 1Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Trek begins at Machame Gate through montane rainforest to Machame Camp.
Day 2Machame Camp to Shira Camp
The trail climbs out of the forest onto the moorland zone, reaching the open Shira Plateau.
Day 3Shira Camp via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
A “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization day past the Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp beneath the Barranco Wall.
Day 4Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Scramble up the Barranco Wall then continue across the Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit push.
Day 5Summit Uhuru Peak and descend to Mweka Camp
A pre-midnight start for the summit push to Uhuru Peak, followed by a long descent to Mweka Camp.
Day 6Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate; return to Moshi/Arusha
A final descent through forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before transferring back to Moshi or Arusha.
What's Included

Included in this climb

  • Park and conservation fees as quoted
  • Professional mountain guide(s) and crew
  • Camping arrangements for the Machame route
  • Meals on the mountain
  • Transfers specified in the itinerary
  • Safety equipment and emergency procedures as appropriate
Not Included

Not included

  • International flights
  • Visa costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips/gratuities
  • Alcoholic and personal beverages unless specified
Prepare For The Climb

Packing & FAQs

General guidance below — our team sends a full, route-specific packing list and briefing once your climb is booked.

Essential packing list

  • Layered clothing for rainforest to arctic conditions
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
  • Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
  • Headlamp with spare batteries, for the summit night
  • Trekking poles and gaiters
  • Sun protection and personal first-aid kit
What is the success rate on the 6-day Machame route?
Machame's “climb high, sleep low” profile gives a solid acclimatization base, though trekkers wanting an even stronger profile often add a day with the 7-day version.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
No technical climbing skills are required, but a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience will make the trek more enjoyable.
Can this route be done as a private climb?
Yes — this itinerary can be arranged privately for your dates and group size, or joined as part of a scheduled group departure.
Kilimanjaro camp on the Machame Route
Customize This Trip

Ready to climb Machame?

This itinerary can be adjusted for private groups, family climbs and special requests — and combined with a safari or Zanzibar extension afterwards. Tell us your dates and group size for a personalized quote.

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