6 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro
From: $1,750

Machame Route 6-Day | Best Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour 2026

6 Days Machame Route
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6 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Route Overview

The 6-Day Machame Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most popular and scenic trails. It offers good acclimatization, steady altitude gains, and beautiful views from start to finish. The route begins on the southern side of the mountain and passes through rainforest, moorland, and rocky alpine terrain. It covers about 62 km (38 miles) and follows the “climb high, sleep low” approach to help you adjust to the altitude. This route is ideal for trekkers looking for a challenging but rewarding climb with strong summit success rates.

Trip Highlights

  • One of the most scenic and popular Kilimanjaro routes
  • Good acclimatization with steady altitude gains
  • Beautiful views from Shira Plateau and Lava Tower
  • “Climb high, sleep low” to support acclimatization
  • Strong summit success rate with the 6-day plan
  • Summit approach via Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
6 days of climmbing kilimanjaro via the popular machame route

6-Day Machame Route Summit Success Rate

The 6-Day Machame Route offers a good summit success rate of about 72%. The route’s gradual climb and helpful acclimatization points improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Success rates are strong when trekkers pace themselves well and stay hydrated.

Best Time to Climb Machame Route

The best time to climb the Kilimanjaro via Machame Route is January to March and June to October. These months offer clear skies and stable weather. You can still climb during the short rainy seasons, but expect more mud, clouds, and possible snow.

How Hard is the Machame Route?

The Machame Route is considered moderately difficult. It does not require technical climbing skills, but you need good fitness and stamina. The main challenges are altitude, long walking days, and the summit night. With good preparation and pacing, most trekkers complete it successfully.

Kilimanjaro Machame Route 6 Days Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) → Machame Camp (3,000m)

After breakfast, we drive to Machame Gate for registration and trek briefing. The trail begins gently through the lush rainforest, offering sightings of birds, monkeys, and giant tropical trees. The hike gradually ascends to Machame Camp where you will enjoy your first night on the mountain.

  • Elevation: 1,800m → 3,000m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Machame Camp (3,000m) → Shira Camp (3,840m)

Leaving the forest behind, the trail climbs steeply up the Shira Plateau. Vegetation becomes sparse as we enter the moorland zone with stunning views of Kibo Peak. We arrive at Shira Camp in the afternoon for rest and acclimatization.

  • Elevation: 3,000m → 3,840m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Shira Camp (3,840m) → Lava Tower (4,630m) → Barranco Camp (3,976m)

Today is a crucial acclimatization day. We trek toward Lava Tower at 4,630m, where we stop for lunch before descending through the scenic Barranco Valley. The “climb high, sleep low” strategy enhances your body’s adaptation to altitude.

  • Elevation: 3,840m → 4,630m → 3,976m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,976m) → Barafu Camp (4,673m)

The day begins with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall—an adventurous but non-technical ascent. After reaching the top, the path traverses several valleys before joining the Mweka and Machame trails leading up to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt.

  • Elevation: 3,976m → 4,673m
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Hiking Time: 7–9 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Barafu (4,673m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,080m)

Just after midnight, we start the final ascent to the summit through the arctic zone. The steep climb leads to Stella Point, where we enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over Africa. A final push brings us to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the continent. After photos and celebrations, we descend to Barafu for a short rest and continue to Mweka Camp.

  • Elevation: 4,673m → 5,895m → 3,080m
  • Distance: 5 km ascent + 12 km descent
  • Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent + 4–6 hours descent
  • Habitat: Arctic → Moorland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,080m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Moshi

A gentle descent through the lush rainforest leads to Mweka Gate. After receiving your summit certificates, we meet the driver for your transfer back to Moshi—concluding your unforgettable 6-day Machame Route adventure.

  • Elevation: 3,080m → 1,640m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
6 days machame route map 6 Days Machame Route Map

Inclusions

  • All park fees, camping fees, rescue fees & conservation charges
  • Professional mountain guides, cook & porters
  • 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Drinking water & hot drinks (tea/coffee)
  • Tents, sleeping mats & full camping equipment
  • Portable flush toilet with toilet tent
  • Oxygen tank & pulse oximeter
  • Transfers to/from the Lemosho Gate

Exclusions

  • International & domestic flights
  • Visa fees & travel insurance
  • Tips for guides, cook & porters
  • Personal trekking gear rentals
  • Alcoholic beverages & personal expenses
  • Pre/post-climb accommodation

Payment Terms

Deposit Payment

A 30% deposit is required to secure your 8 Days Lemosho Route booking. This allows us to reserve park permits, crew, and logistics in advance.

Balance Payment

The remaining balance must be cleared 30 days before departure to ensure smooth preparation for your Kilimanjaro trek.

Cancellation Policy

8 Days and Above Before Departure

Cancelations made 8 days or more before the trek start date receive a full refund, minus any bank or transfer charges.

0 to 7 Days Before Departure

Cancelations within 0–7 days of departure are non-refundable due to advance operational costs.

Supplements & Discounts

  • Children aged 5–15 years – USD 690 per person
  • Expatriates or residents in Tanzania – USD 245 per person
  • East African citizens – USD 880 per person

6 Days Machame Route Trek Costs

The cost of the 6-day Machame Route Kilimanjaro hiking package starts at $1,750 per person. The price varies based on group size. Final prices depend on group size and service level.

  • Solo Trekker – USD 1,750 per person
  • Group of 2 – USD 1,645 per person
  • Group of 3 – USD 1,550 per person
  • Group of 4 – USD 1,490 per person
  • Group of 5+ – USD 1,250 per person

Add-ons – Hotels

We offer comfortable pre- and post-trek hotel options in Moshi to suit different budgets and comfort levels.

  • Lindrin Lodge (Single) – USD 55/night
  • Lindrin Lodge (Double) – USD 70/night
  • Keys Hotel (Single) – USD 69/night
  • Parkview Inn (Double) – USD 91/night
  • Kilimanjaro Wonders (Single) – USD 140/night

Gear Add-ons

You can upgrade your Kilimanjaro gear for added comfort during the Lemosho Route climb.

  • Private Toilet – USD 150
  • Private Tent – USD 5 per day
  • Thicker Sleeping Mattress – USD 10
  • Thermarest – USD 15

Transfers

Private airport and inter-city transfers are available on request.

  • Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) ↔ Moshi – USD 50 per vehicle (one way)
  • Arusha ↔ Moshi – USD 100 per vehicle (one way)
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6 Days Machame Route – Group Joining Departure Dates 2026–2027

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Why Climb Kilimanjaro with Rede Tours and Safaris?

  • Experienced, certified & English-speaking guides
  • High staff-to-client ratio for safety
  • Quality camping equipment & nutritious meals
  • Portable toilet included on all treks
  • Excellent safety record & emergency oxygen on every climb
  • Responsible tourism & fair wages for porters
  • 24/7 support before, during & after your climb

What Our Clients Say

Overall Rating

4.9

120 reviews
Excellent

Review Summary

  • Guiding & Support:
    4.9
  • Value for Money:
    4.8
  • Organization & Logistics:
    4.9
  • Overall Experience:
    4.9

Recent Reviews

120 reviews
Sophia Brown’s avatar
Sophia Brown (UK)

"The 6 Days Machame Route was absolutely incredible! The forest, moorland, and summit views were stunning. Our guides were professional and supportive, making the climb a smooth and unforgettable experience."

October 12, 2025 - Verified booking
Daniel Smith’s avatar
Daniel Smith (USA)

"Machame is the perfect route for acclimatization. Each day offered new breathtaking scenery, and the guides ensured we were safe and comfortable. Reaching Uhuru Peak was truly a life-changing moment!"

November 3, 2025 - Verified booking

6 Days Machame Route Kilimanjaro FAQs

The 6 Days Machame Route begins at Machame Gate on Kilimanjaro’s southern slopes and covers approximately 62 km (39 miles). The route passes through lush rainforest, moorlands, and alpine desert before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak. The itinerary includes one acclimatization day at Shira Camp to reduce altitude sickness risk. Each day features details on elevation gain, distance, hiking time, vegetation zones, and meals. Machame’s gradual ascent over six days provides excellent acclimatization, stunning scenery, and an unforgettable trekking experience.

The 6 Days Machame Route is popular for its combination of challenging trekking, scenic diversity, and higher summit success rates. Starting on the southern slopes allows for a gradual ascent, reducing altitude-related risks. Trekkers enjoy rainforest, moorlands, and the Shira Plateau along the way. The route is ideal for those with limited time but still seeking excellent acclimatization, breathtaking landscapes, and a rewarding high-altitude experience.

The 6 Days Machame Route is moderately difficult. Trekkers need to be physically fit and prepared for long hiking days, steep terrain, and high-altitude conditions. Daily trekking times range from 4 to 7 hours, with summit day taking 10–14 hours. The gradual ascent and strategic acclimatization day help reduce altitude sickness risk. With proper training, gear, and guidance from experienced mountain teams, climbers can reach Uhuru Peak safely and enjoyably.

The summit success rate for the 6 Days Machame Route averages 80%–85%, slightly lower than longer routes due to less acclimatization time. Success depends on fitness, pace, weather, and adherence to the acclimatization schedule. Professional guides monitor climbers closely and adjust the pace to optimize summit chances.

The best time to climb Machame is during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These periods offer stable weather, clear views, and safer trails. Rainy months may result in slippery paths, reduced visibility, and more challenging conditions.

Booking the 6 Days Machame Route requires a 30% deposit, with the balance due 30 days before departure. Cancellations 8 days or more prior qualify for a full refund minus bank fees; cancellations within 0–7 days are non-refundable due to permits and pre-arranged logistics.

Discounts may be available for children, Tanzanian residents, and East African citizens. Optional supplements include private tents, upgraded sleeping pads, and personal toilets. Supplements should be booked in advance.

Inclusions: professional guides, experienced porters, meals on the mountain, camping equipment, park fees, rescue fees, and transport between Moshi and Machame Gate. Exclusions: international flights, personal gear, travel insurance, pre/post-trek hotel stays (unless requested), optional supplements, and personal expenses.

Trekkers can choose hotels in Moshi like Lindrin Lodge, Keys Hotel, Parkview Inn, or Kilimanjaro Wonders. Transfers from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Moshi cost USD 50 one-way; Arusha to Moshi transfers cost USD 100. Booking in advance ensures smooth logistics.

Preparation includes physical training, mental readiness, gear organization, and logistical planning. Cardio, strength exercises, and long hikes with a weighted backpack are recommended. Proper layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sturdy boots are essential. Staying hydrated, eating well, and understanding high-altitude symptoms improves safety and success.

Yes, group treks are available for the Machame Route. Groups share porters, enjoy guided support, and provide a social atmosphere for encouragement. Group sizes vary; booking early is recommended.

Yes, Kilimanjaro offers several routes including Lemosho (scenic western approach), Marangu (hut accommodation), Rongai (dry and less crowded), Umbwe (steep and challenging), and the Northern Circuit (longest and scenic). Machame stands out for stunning views, acclimatization opportunities, and popularity among trekkers seeking a rewarding six-day climb.

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