6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS Machame Route Panoramic Kilimanjaro Shots
Tour Overview
The Machame Route is one of the most scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers a beautiful mix of forest, valleys, ridges, and wide-open views of the mountain.
Each day brings new landscapes, shifting from deep rainforest to high moorlands, volcanic plains, and finally the snowy slopes near the summit. The route allows good acclimatization through a climb-high, sleep-low approach and creates many chances to enjoy and capture the natural beauty around you.
Add Your Tooltip Text Here
Duration: 6 Days
When to go: All Year Round
FULL ITINERARY
Arrival at Kilimanjaro and Transfer to the Hotel
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a driver will meet and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and preparing for your climb.
Check your gear, charge all devices, and take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The soft evening light and views of nearby hills and local life make this a pleasant start to your adventure.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Lodge / Hotel
MEAL PLAN
Full Board
Day 1:
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Distance: ~11 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Elevation Change: 1,800 m → 3,000 m
Your adventure begins at Machame Gate, where permits are checked and the team prepares your equipment. The trail leads into a thick rainforest filled with tall trees, hanging moss, and green plants covering the ground. Sunlight breaks through the leaves and creates soft, warm beams that fall gently on the path.
The forest feels alive with birds, insects, and the sound of small streams. As you climb higher, the trees slowly thin and the air feels cooler. By the time you reach Machame Camp, the forest opens up, giving quiet space to rest after a full day of walking.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Machame Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 2:
Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Elevation Change: 3,000 m → 3,840 m
Today you leave the forest and enter the high moorlands. The slope is steeper, and the trees turn into tall heather and volcanic rocks. The views open wide, showing valleys stretching behind you and ridges touched by morning light.
As you climb, you can see Mount Meru rising far in the distance. The landscape becomes more open and peaceful as you reach the Shira Plateau. Shira Cave Camp sits in a wide, gentle area, giving clear views of the mountains around you a calm and beautiful place to end the day.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Shira Cave Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3:
Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Elevation Change: 3,840 m → 4,600 m → 3,950 m
This is an important acclimatization day. You climb steadily toward Lava Tower, a tall and striking volcanic rock rising out of the open landscape. As you move higher, the air becomes cooler and the views of Kibo’s glaciers become sharp and clear.
After spending time at Lava Tower, the trail descends into a green valley filled with giant senecio trees strange, tall plants that give the valley a unique look. The pathway continues down toward Barranco Camp, set below the famous Barranco Wall. Evening light often colors the cliffs in soft orange tones, creating a peaceful finish to the day.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Barranco Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4:
Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp via Karanga Camp
Distance: ~9 km
Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
Elevation Change: 3,950 m → 4,035 m → 4,640 m
The day begins with climbing the Barranco Wall. It looks steep, but it is safe and enjoyable, with many natural steps and ledges. As you climb, the views open wide over the valleys and distant plains. After reaching the top, the trail continues through rolling land toward Karanga Camp.
Small streams and rocky paths make the area look fresh and open. After a short rest at Karanga, you continue to Barafu Camp. The trail becomes drier and more rugged, with clear views of the summit ridge. Barafu Camp sits on a high, rocky ridge, giving you a strong feeling that the summit is close.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Barafu Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5:
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Distance: ~17 km
Hiking Time: 11–14 hours
Elevation Change: 4,640 m → 5,895 m → 3,820 m
Summit day starts around midnight. With headlamps lighting the path, you slowly climb the steep upper slopes. The night feels calm and cold, and the sky is filled with stars. As dawn approaches, the mountain begins to glow with soft colors. Reaching Stella Point brings the first real sunrise views, and a short walk leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
The snow, glaciers, and wide-open plains below create unforgettable scenery. After taking in the moment, you descend back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Millennium Camp. The air becomes warmer, and the landscape turns green again, making the end of the day feel peaceful.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Millennium Camp
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6:
Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Elevation Change: 3,820 m → 1,640 m
The final day of walking takes you through the peaceful rainforest. The trail is gentle and filled with birdsong, green plants, and tall trees covered in moss. Soft light falls through the canopy, creating calm and beautiful scenes all the way down.
Once you reach Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificates. From here, a vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel for a warm shower, rest, and celebration of your climb.
Where to Stay
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Departure Day
After completing your Kilimanjaro climb and resting at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport or to your next travel plan. This day gives you time to relax, reflect on the journey, and enjoy the memories created on the mountain.
The transfer ensures a smooth and comfortable start to your next steps, whether you are flying back home or continuing your travel plans.
MEAL PLAN
Breakfast
Tour Inclusion
- Accommodation on full board basis
- All park entry fees
- Photographic guidance
- Domestic flights and road transfers
- Soft drinks and snacks
- Support equipment (bean bags, charging station, etc.)
Tour Exclusion
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
- Staff gratuities
- Personal expenses
Price Per Person
|
Number of Person
|
Price per Person
|
|---|---|
|
PAX 2 |
$ 480 |
|
PAX 3 |
$ 460 |
|
PAX 4 |
$ 440 |
|
PAX 5+ |
$ 567 |
Tour Inclusion
- Accommodation on full board basis
- All park entry fees
- Photographic guidance
- Domestic flights and road transfers
- Soft drinks and snacks
- Support equipment (bean bags, charging station, etc.)
Tour Exclusion
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
- Staff gratuities
- Personal expenses
YOUR NEXT JOURNEY
Make this itinerary yours