
6-Day Machame Trek
The Whiskey Route: A 6-Day Machame Trek with Tazama Africa
Price starting from
$2,160
6-Day Machame Trek
The Machame route, affectionately known as the "Whiskey Route," is a classic and highly sought-after trail to Kilimanjaro’s summit. It is celebrated for its stunning scenery and the exceptional variety of its landscapes, as you trek through all five of Kilimanjaro's unique climatic zones. This route offers an incredible adventure, combining challenging but rewarding days of trekking with some of the most spectacular views the mountain has to offer, including the iconic Barranco Wall and the otherworldly Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants.
While we offer a 6-day itinerary for those with time constraints, Tazama Africa strongly recommends the 7-day Machame trek. The 7-day option provides a much more gradual acclimatization profile, which dramatically increases your chances of a safe and successful summit. The shorter itinerary, though popular with some "budget" operators, skips a crucial day of acclimatization and is only recommended for experienced trekkers with previous high-altitude exposure.
For your safety and success, our team is equipped with a 3-porter-per-guest ratio, ensuring our crew is well-supported and your gear is managed. All of our guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, providing an unmatched level of medical preparedness on the mountain. Additionally, as a testament to our commitment to safety, Tazama Africa is an official partner with a reputable air evacuation service, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.
Detailed itinerary for 6-Day Machame Trek
Arrival & Briefing
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Tazama Africa representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. After you've had time to settle in, our head guide will conduct a thorough pre-climb briefing, ensuring your gear is suitable and answering any questions you may have.
⭐Highlights: A seamless arrival and a comprehensive pre-trek briefing.
Accommodation
Accomodation in Arusha/Moshi
Trekking from Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Your adventure begins with a drive to Machame Gate (1,800 m). After completing the park's registration formalities, you will begin your ascent through the lush, verdant rainforest. The air is cool and humid, and you may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys as you trek. This first day is designed to be a gentle introduction to the climb.
Upon arrival at Machame Camp (3,000 m), your tents will be set up and a hot meal will be prepared by our dedicated chef. You will have time to rest and get your first taste of life on the mountain.
Trek time
5-6 hours
Distance
5 km (3.1 miles)
⭐Highlights: Trekking through the lush rainforest.
A Walk into the Moorland to Shira Camp

After a filling breakfast, you will leave the rainforest behind and enter the heath and moorland zone. The path becomes steeper, but your effort will be rewarded with your first panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and the summit of Kilimanjaro in the distance.
At Shira Camp (3,750 m), a hot lunch awaits. To further assist your acclimatization, our guides will lead you on a short, easy acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower. This crucial "climb high, sleep low" strategy is key to preparing your body for the higher altitudes ahead.
Trek time
4-5 hours
Distance
5 km (3.1 miles)
⭐Highlights: Reaching the Shira Plateau and a vital acclimatization hike.
The Crucial Climb to Lava Tower & Descent to Barranco Camp

This is a pivotal day for acclimatization. You will ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m), a massive volcanic rock formation. The ascent and the time spent at this altitude are essential for your body's adaptation. You will have lunch here before beginning the descent.
The trail then leads you down into the beautiful Barranco Valley, where you will camp for the night. This day's "climb high, sleep low" profile is one of the most effective ways to help your body prepare for the summit.
Trek time
6-8 hours
Distance
11 km (6.8 miles)
⭐Highlights: Ascending to Lava Tower and seeing the famous Barranco Wall.
The Barranco Wall and a Trek to Barafu Camp

Today begins with the famous Barranco Wall climb. Our guides are experts at navigating this challenging but non-technical scramble, and you'll be at the top in no time, with a stunning view of Kibo volcano.
You will then begin the long and challenging hike to Barafu Camp (4,673 m). The path features numerous ascents and descents. Our guides will set an optimal pace to conserve your energy for the summit night. Upon arrival, you will rest, prepare your gear, and sleep early in anticipation of the night's summit push.
Trek time
8-10 hours
Distance
11 km (6.8 miles)
⭐Highlights: Conquering the Barranco Wall and arriving at high camp.
Summit Day and Descent to Millennium Camp

The final ascent begins just after midnight. With your headlamps lighting the way, you will make the long, slow, and challenging push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Our WFR-certified guides will be with you every step of the way, monitoring your health and ensuring your safety. The reward for your efforts is an unforgettable sunrise from the "Roof of Africa."
After celebrating your achievement, you will descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing the long descent to Millennium Camp (3,950 m) for the night.
Trek time
8-12 hours
Distance
15 km (9.3 miles)
⭐Highlights: Reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and witnessing a spectacular sunrise.
Final Descent to Mweka Gate

After a well-deserved night's sleep in the lush rainforest, you will begin the final leg of your journey to Mweka Gate (1,640 m). At the gate, the whole crew will gather to celebrate your success. You will receive your official summit certificate and be transferred back to your hotel for a celebratory dinner and a much-needed hot shower.
Trek time
4-5 hours
Distance
12 km (7.4 miles)
⭐Highlights: A triumphant final descent and the certificate ceremony.
Departure
Enjoy a final relaxing morning at your hotel before we provide a comfortable transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.
6-Day Machame Trek
Price per person
SOLO | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | 4 PAX | 5 PAX | 6 PAX | 7 PAX | 8 PAX |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$3,495 | $2,698 | $2,481 | $2,440 | $2,402 | $2,287 | $2,218 | $2,160 |
Cost Includes
- All transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Hotel accommodations before and after the climb.
- All park fees, camping fees, and taxes.
- All meals and bottled drinking water on the hike.
- Professional WFR-certified guides.
- A generous porter-to-guest ratio of 3:1.
- A professional and experienced mountain crew.
- Daily medical checks.
- Oxygen tanks and medical kits.
- Portable private toilets.
- A no-single-use plastics policy and sustainable operations.
- Emergency Air Evacuation.
- A seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish.
Cost Excludes
- International flights.
- Tips to the climbing crew.
- Visa fees.
- Personal gear rentals.
- Travel insurance (mandatory).
Ready to Adventure?
Looking for a getaway where luxury meets nature? Relax in exclusive lodges, savor world-class cuisine, and experience the beauty of untouched landscapes with tailored comfort. Your next breathtaking escape awaits.
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