Machame
Route
6
Days
The Popular Scenic Route - Condensed
From
$2,000
per person sharing
The Machame Route 6 Days - Your Path to Uhuru Peak
The 6-day Machame Route offers the same spectacular scenery as the 7-day version but in a more condensed timeframe. This version combines Karanga Camp with Barafu Camp, reducing the trip by one day while still providing good acclimatization through the "climb high, sleep low" approach. Ideal for climbers with limited time who still want to experience Kilimanjaro's most scenic route. Prior high-altitude experience is recommended for this faster itinerary.
This 6-day expedition takes you through diverse ecological zones, from rainforest to alpine desert, culminating at Uhuru Peak at 5,895m.
Day-by-Day Ascent
6 days to the Roof of Africa via Machame Route 6 Days
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Your adventure begins at the Machame Gate (1,800m). Trek through lush rainforest teeming with birdlife and colobus monkeys. The trail winds through ancient trees draped with moss. Arrive at Machame Camp nestled in a forest clearing at 3,000m.
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Leave the forest behind and enter the heath zone. Giant heathers and wild flowers line the path as views of Kibo peak emerge. Cross streams and navigate rocky terrain. Reach the vast Shira Plateau, an alpine meadow with panoramic views.
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Critical acclimatization day following 'climb high, sleep low'. Ascend toward Lava Tower (4,630m) through alpine desert. Lunch near the volcanic plug before descending to Barranco Camp. This altitude gain significantly aids your body's adjustment.
Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Begin with the famous Barranco Wall - a steep scramble using hands and feet. After the wall, traverse ridges through Karanga Valley and continue climbing to high camp. Long but crucial day as you reach base camp for the summit attempt.
The highest point in Africa
Summit Day: Barafu to Uhuru Peak
Wake at midnight for tea and biscuits. Begin the final ascent under stars, climbing through scree and switchbacks. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at crater rim for sunrise. Push on to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the Roof of Africa! Long descent to Mweka Camp.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. The humid forest feels like a different world after the barren summit. Receive your summit certificates and celebrate with your team before transferring to Moshi.
Route Highlights
Challenges to Consider
Route Information
- Start Point
- Machame Gate (1,800m)
- Summit Approach
- Stella Point
- Total Distance
- 62 km
- Difficulty
- CHALLENGING
Campsites Along the Route
- 1Machame Camp
- 2Shira Camp
- 3Barranco Camp
- 4Barafu Camp
- 5Mweka Camp
This Route is Best For
Begin Your Journey
This is more than a safari—it's a transformative encounter with the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Secure your place on this life-changing adventure.
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“Standing at Uhuru Peak as the sun rises over Africa is a moment that changes you forever. This route offers the perfect balance of challenge and reward.”
Joseph Kimaro
Lead Mountain Guide, ODA Tours
Chat with Joseph