Machame Route 6-7 Days
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It is considered a challenging but rewarding route, offering stunning vistas and ample opportunities for acclimatization.
Route Overview:
The Machame Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the southwest, beginning at the Machame Gate. The trail winds through dense rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, providing a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems. The route’s gradual ascent and descent along different paths allows for better acclimatization and scenic variety.
Day by Day Itinerary Machame Route 6-7 Days
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation
On the first day, you will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, where you will be met by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha town. Here, you will have a briefing session and prepare for the upcoming trek.
Day 2: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Hut (3,000m)
The trek begins at the Machame Gate, where you will complete the necessary registration formalities. The trail winds through the lush rainforest, offering glimpses of unique flora and fauna, such as colobus monkeys and various bird species. After approximately 5-7 hours of trekking, you will reach the Machame Hut, your first overnight stop on the mountain.
Day 3: Machame Hut (3,000m) to Shira Hut (3,840m)
On the third day, the trail continues through the rainforest before emerging into the moorlands. The landscape transforms into a unique and rocky terrain, with giant heathers and volcanic rocks dominating the scenery. After approximately 4-6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at the Shira Hut, where you will spend the night.
Day 4: Shira Hut (3,840m) to Barranco Hut (3,950m)
Today’s trek is relatively short but challenging, as you will cross the Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending into the Barranco Valley. This day is crucial for acclimatization, as you will experience higher altitudes before descending to the Barranco Hut. The trek will take approximately 6-8 hours.
Day 5: Barranco Hut (3,950m) to Karanga Valley (4,200m) and Barafu Hut (4,600m)
The day begins with a steep climb up the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding section of the trek. After conquering the wall, the trail continues through the Karanga Valley before ascending to the Barafu Hut, your final campsite before the summit attempt. This day’s trek will take approximately 7-9 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Hut (4,600m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Mweka Hut (3,100m)
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You will wake up around midnight to begin the final ascent to the summit, Uhuru Peak. The climb is steep and demanding, but the stunning views of the glaciers and the sunrise over the clouds make it all worthwhile. After reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking panoramas, you will descend to the Mweka Hut, where you will rest and recuperate.
Day 7: Mweka Hut (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) and departure
On the final day, you will descend through the rainforest, retracing your steps back to the Mweka Gate. The descent is relatively easier, and you will have the opportunity to spot wildlife and take in the lush surroundings one last time. After reaching the gate, you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha, where you can celebrate your achievement and prepare for your journey home.
Note: The Machame Route can also be completed in 6 days by combining Day 4 and Day 5, with the ascent to Barafu Hut occurring on the same day as the Lava Tower trek. However, this itinerary is more challenging and provides less time for acclimatization.
