6 Days Machame Route

After a hearty breakfast, you'll be transported to Machame Gate, the official starting point of your 6 Days Machame Route adventure. Here, you'll meet your experienced guides and porters, complete the necessary formalities, and begin your unforgettable climb.

The initial leg of the trek leads you into the lush montane rainforest, where towering trees, dangling mosses, and vibrant wildflowers create a magical atmosphere. The trail can be slippery, especially after rainfall, but the serene beauty and chorus of birdsong make it an enchanting journey. Keep an eye out for blue monkeys and colobus monkeys as they leap between the treetops.

As you gain elevation, the air becomes crisper and cooler. The 6 Days Machame Route is known for its scenic diversity, and this first day gives you a taste of what’s to come. The path gradually becomes steeper, challenging your stamina while offering glimpses of distant peaks and deep valleys.

After approximately 5–7 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Machame Camp, nestled at around 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). Here, you’ll unwind, enjoy a warm meal, and take in your first night under the African sky. The peaceful ambiance of the camp, combined with the sense of achievement, makes this an ideal end to your first day on the 6 Days Machame Route.

Get ready for the days ahead—each offering its own unique landscapes and unforgettable moments as you continue your 6 Days Machame Route to the summit of Kilimanjaro.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous
• Accommodation: Comfortable camping at Machame Camp

Begin your day with a warm breakfast at Machame Camp, surrounded by the morning mist of the rainforest. The trail soon leads you through the last stretches of the Afro-montane forest, where the trees gradually thin out and the landscape begins to open up.

As you ascend higher, you’ll find yourself stepping into a new ecological zone—the heather moorlands. The transition is remarkable, with the lush green canopy giving way to open ridges dotted with giant heathers, lobelias, and other high-altitude plants. The air becomes cooler and thinner, but the incredible scenery makes every step worthwhile.

The route winds across dramatic ridgelines, offering panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and the peaks in the distance. Along the way, the interplay of light and cloud creates a surreal atmosphere, perfect for photography and reflection. You may even catch glimpses of Mount Meru on a clear day, standing proudly on the horizon.

After several hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp, located at approximately 3,840 meters (12,600 feet). Nestled beneath the towering cliffs of the Shira Plateau, the camp offers a spectacular vantage point for sunset views and stargazing at night.

Rest and recharge here as you prepare for the next stage of your adventure along the 6 Days Machame Route—with even more diverse landscapes and challenges awaiting.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous
Accommodation: Shira Camp

Today's trek takes you up to the Lava Tower, which stands at an altitude of 4,600 meters, providing breathtaking panoramic views. Afterward, descend to the Barranco Camp, situated in a picturesque valley. The route offers spectacular scenery, including the imposing Barranco Wall, which you'll conquer with the assistance of your experienced guides.

Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Accommodation: Barranco Camp

As you leave Barranco Camp, climb the iconic Barranco Wall, showcasing your determination and agility. Traverse across rocky paths and rolling hills to reach the Karanga Camp, where a refreshing lunch awaits. Afterward, continue your ascent to the Barafu Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,673 meters, in preparation for your final push to the summit.

Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Awaken before midnight to begin your challenging summit attempt along the 6 Days Machame Route. Under the guidance of your experienced guides, navigate the treacherous scree slopes leading up to Stella Point, where a breathtaking sunrise over the glaciers awaits.

Push forward to reach the iconic Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. This moment marks the pinnacle of your journey on the 6 Days Machame Route, a true test of determination and endurance.

After soaking in the views and capturing unforgettable photos, begin your descent to Mweka Camp for some much-needed rest and nourishment. This descent offers a final look at the varied landscapes encountered on the 6 Days Machame Route—from icy summits to lush forest trails.

Finally, head down to Mweka Gate, where you'll be met and transferred back to Moshi. Celebrate the success of completing the 6 Days Machame Route, a journey that leaves you with lasting memories and a profound sense of achievement.

Difficulty Level: Very strenuous
Accommodation: (Day-use only)