6 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE CLIMBING
(+ 2 days in a hotel)
The 6 Days Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and a rewarding challenge for climbers. This route starts at Machame Gate and takes you through lush rainforests, moorlands, and rocky alpine zones before reaching the Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro vary greatly depending on the altitude. At the base, temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). As you ascend, the temperatures drop significantly, reaching below freezing at night near the summit. Climbers should prepare for temperatures as low as -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) at Uhuru Peak.
Do You Need a Sleeping Pad?
Yes, you will need a good-quality sleeping pad to ensure warmth and comfort during the climb. Bush Lion Trekking and Tours provides sleeping pads, but you are welcome to bring your own for extra comfort. Our team also offers quality tents and sleeping bags for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Itinerary summary
- Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania
- Day 2: Machame Gate (1790m) to Machame Camp (3010m)
- Day 3: Machame Camp (3010m) to Shira Camp (3845m)
- Day 4: Shira Cave (3845m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
- Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
- Day 6: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
- Day 7: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
- Day 8: Depart Tanzania
Who Should Climb the 6 Days Machame Route?
The 6 Days Machame Route is perfect for adventurous climbers who want a more challenging and scenic experience on Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to rocky trails and stunning views of glaciers. While the Machame Route is considered more demanding than the Marangu Route, it provides better acclimatization opportunities due to its longer trekking distances and “climb high, sleep low” strategy.
This route is ideal for climbers who are physically prepared and eager to experience the adventure of hiking through Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystems. With proper preparation and determination, reaching Uhuru Peak on the 6 Days Machame Route is an unforgettable achievement.
Choose the 6 Days Machame Route with Bush Lion Trekking and Tours for a thrilling and rewarding Kilimanjaro climbing experience!
Day 01 : Arrival and Preparation
Upon your arrival in Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You’ll have a briefing session with your guide, where you’ll receive all necessary information and gear for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Machame Gate (1790m) to Machame Camp (3010m)
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up at the hotel around 8:00 am and transferred to Machame Gate. On the way, you’ll pass coffee and banana plantations grown by the Chagga people. Once at Machame Gate, Bush Lion Tours will handle all pre-hike formalities. The hike begins in the tropical rainforest, with a picnic lunch en route. Keep an eye out for blue monkeys in the trees. You’ll reach Machame Camp (2835 m) by the end of the day, where you’ll spend your first night.
- Hiking Time: Approx. 7 hours
- Distance Covered: 11 km
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Day 3: Machame Camp (3010m) to Shira Camp (3845m)
Wake up early and enjoy the first view of the mountain. After breakfast, you’ll start hiking around 8:00 am. The trail ascends to the top of the forest, transitioning to the moorland zone. After a short lunch and break, you’ll continue up a rocky ridge to the Shira Plateau, where you’ll see the western breach with its stunning glacier. Overnight at Shira Cave Camp (3750 m).
- Hiking Time: Approx. 3 hours
- Distance Covered: 5 km
- Habitat: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Day 4: Shira Cave (3845m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
For acclimatization, you’ll hike to a higher altitude and then descend to sleep. The trek takes you into the alpine desert, up to Lava Tower (4600 m), and then down to Barranco Camp (3900 m). The descent offers great photo opportunities of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall. The campsite is in a valley below Barranco Wall, providing a memorable sunset view before dinner.
- Hiking Time: Approx. 6 hours
- Distance Covered: 10 km
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
Today’s trek begins with ascending the great Barranco Wall, not technical but long and tiring. You’ll have lunch at Karanga Camp, the last stop for water before the summit. Continue through the alpine desert towards Barafu Camp (4640 m), where you’ll spend the night.
- Hiking Time: Approx. 8 hours
- Distance Covered: 8 km
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Day 6: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
Awaken at midnight for a light breakfast before starting the final ascent. The 4-5 hour climb to Stella Point (5756 m) offers spectacular views as the sun rises. From Stella Point, it’s a 1-hour trek to Uhuru Peak (5895 m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for lunch and rest before continuing to Millennium Camp (3950 m) for the night.
- Hiking Time: Approx. 12-15 hours
- Distance Covered: 15 km
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Day 7: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
After breakfast, you’ll begin the final descent from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll collect your certificates and enjoy a cold beverage. A private car will transfer you back to your hotel for a well-deserved hot shower and a celebration of your Kilimanjaro achievement.
- Hiking Time: Approx. 5 hours
- Distance Covered: 14 km
- Habitat: Moorland & Tropical Rain Forest
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch included
Day 8: Departure Tanzania
Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.
Hotels check out is 11:00am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee
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- Feb 03, 2025 - Feb 08, 2025
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PRICE FOR 6 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE CLIMBING
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
1 Person | 2 – 4 People | 5 – 6 People | 7 – 9 People | 10 & Above |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$2,050 USD | $1,750 USD | $1,650 USD | $1,620 USD | $1,590 USD |
The price mentioned may change depending on specific reasons, such as if you choose to book and pay for your own hotel or airport transfers.
6 Days Machame Route – Cost Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’re paying for on the 6 Days Machame Route with Bush Lion Trekking and Tours:
| Expense | Cost ($) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Kilimanjaro Park Fees + Tax | $829.16 | Includes entrance, camping, and rescue fees (mandatory). |
| 2 Nights Hotel in Moshi | $140.00 | Stay at Panama Garden Resort ($70 per night, includes breakfast). |
| Airport Transfers | $80.00 | Pick-up and drop-off from Kilimanjaro Airport. |
| Transport to Kilimanjaro Gate | $80.00 | Roundtrip transport from your hotel to the Machame Gate. |
| Food on the Mountain | $165.00 | Nutritious and freshly prepared meals during the climb. |
| Salaries for 6 Crew Members | $400.00 | Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooks. |
| Climbing Gear & Support | Included | Tents, sleeping bags, mats, and safety equipment. |
| Total Cost Per Person | $1,694.16 | *Excludes tips , personal gear, and Travel Insurance ( Covers evacuation, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations).* |
Why Choose Bush Lion Trekking and Tours?
- Transparent Pricing: Every cost is explained upfront, so you know exactly where your money goes.
- Fair Treatment: We ensure ethical practices and fair pay for all crew members.
- High Safety Standards: Our team is trained to prioritize your health and safety at every step.
- Unforgettable Experience: With well-trained guides, excellent food, and top-notch equipment, we ensure a memorable climb.
Why Avoid Cheap Companies for Kilimanjaro Climbing?
Choosing a cheap company may seem like a way to save money, but it can lead to significant risks and a poor experience. Many low-cost operators cut corners on essential services, such as:
- Underpaid Staff: Guides, porters, and cooks often receive unfair wages.
- Low-Quality Gear: Old or unsafe equipment can compromise your safety and comfort.
- Poor Food Quality: Meals may lack proper nutrition for a challenging climb.
- Hidden Costs: You might face unexpected charges that weren’t disclosed initially.
- Lack of Safety Measures: Budget operators often skip providing oxygen tanks, pulse oximeters, or proper medical support.
With Bush Lion Trekking and Tours, we focus on transparency, fair treatment of our crew, and providing high-quality services. Our prices reflect the true cost of a safe and enjoyable Kilimanjaro experience.
Included
- Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Moshi.
- 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi (BB) Panama Garden Resort/Parkview inn hotel
- Pre-Climb Briefing And Orientation
- Park Fees And Permits
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate Park entry fees,
- Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
- Double layered Sleeping Mats 4 inches (10cm) thick
- 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
- Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Hot water for washing
- 4 Season Mountain Tents
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Safety Equipment (Like Oxygen Tanks, First Aid Kits, Etc.)
- Portable Flush Toilet with a toilet tent
- Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Not Included
- Lunches, dinners and drinks at your hotel before and after climb.
- Travel Insurance (Medical, Evacuation, Trip Cancellation, Etc.)
- Personal Gear (Such As Hiking Boots, Clothing, Backpacks, Etc.)
- Tips For Guides, Porters, And Other Staff
- Additional Accommodation And Meals Before Or After The Climb
- Alcoholic Beverages And Other Personal Expenses
- Laundry (Available at hotel).
Payment Terms
Deposit Payment
- Deposit is $100 of the total booking amount.
- Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
- We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
- Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
- Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
- Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
- Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
- Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).
Cancellation Policy
8 days and above departure
- No cancellation fees.
0 to 7 days before departure
- 50% of the total tour price will be charged as cancellation fees.
- The 5% surcharge paid for either or both advance and balance payments is non-refundable in case of cancellation of the trek.
FAQs
Before you go
What is the difficulty level of the Machame route?
The Machame route is considered a moderately difficult route. It involves steep ascents. Hiking days on the 7-Day option are short compared to other routes. The high altitudes make trekking more difficult. While prior hiking experience is beneficial, those with a good level of fitness and determination can complete the route successfully. To train, we recommend running or playing sports at least two to three times a week. It’s also great to do a few practice hikes with a 5kg rucksack before you arrive for your trek.
What is the best time of year to climb the Machame route?
The best time to climb the Machame route is during the dry seasons, from January to mid-March and from June to October. These months generally offer better weather conditions and higher visibility, increasing the chances of a successful summit.
What do I need to know about altitude sickness?
When you go above altitudes of 2,500m (as is the case on Kilimanjaro), there is less oxygen which poses a risk of altitude sickness. High altitude sickness can happen to anybody, regardless of age or fitness. Symptoms vary between individuals but commonly include headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, and numbness in fingers and toes. These symptoms can come on unexpectedly and get severe quickly. To decrease the chances of experiencing altitude sickness, you need to allow your body time to acclimatise properly. Although impossible to completely prevent, we’ve designed our itineraries to give guests the best chance to adjust to the altitude changes. This 7-day route provides an extra day to acclimatise, which is, in our opinion, preferable to the 6-day Machame option. Bush Lion guides have years of experience in recognizing and helping guests deal with altitude sickness. Note that oxygen is not used on Kilimanjaro to help guests reach the summit or to ‘treat’ altitude sickness. The only cure for altitude sickness is to immediately descend to lower ground. In severe cases, oxygen may be given to provide enough temporary relief to allow the affected guest to descend. In extreme cases, altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro can be fatal. We put your safety first. Our guides have years of experience, and their decision on whether or not to continue is final.
Do I need immunisations?
We recommend that you check in with your personal healthcare advisor or travel doctor before your trip to Africa. We have provided a useful link below where you can find information on vaccine requirements.
What's included?
See inclusions and exclusions above.
What should I pack for the Machame route?
The following is a recommended packing list for Kilimanjaro:
DOCUMENTS
- Passport
- Travel insurance details
- Boarding passes for flights
- Two passport photos
- Driver’s license (if needed)
- Cards and cash
GEAR & CLOTHING
(please make sure that you have non-cotton clothing for trekking):
- Sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Trekking boots: all-season, lightweight
- Trainers/ Crocs to wear around camp
- 2-3 base-layer t-shirts (e.g. running t-shirts)
- 2 thermal, long-sleeved tops (merino wool works well)
- Fleece/soft-shell jacket
- Lightweight rainjacket for everyday use (keep in daypack)
- Waterproof outer shell jacket
- Down jacket for warmth
- Travel clothes and city wear
- Underwear
- Base-layer trousers/ thermal leggings
- Waterproof trousers
- Trekking trousers
- Trekking shorts (optional)
- 2 pairs of thick wool mountaineering socks
- Lightweight and breathable trekking socks
- Gloves (inners and outers)
- Wool hat/ beanie
- Neck warmer/ buff
- Brimmed hat/ cap
- Small daypack (25l – 35l capacity is generally fine)
- Duffel or rucksack with straps(90L capacity recommended)
- Dry Liner or Dry Bag
- Water bottle/thermos: At least 2L. Nalgene bottles best.
- Sunglasses
- Suncream
- General toiletries, contact lenses, glasses (if needed)
- Towel
- Head torch,
- Electronics (travel adaptor, phone & charger, power bank)
- Lip Balm and moisturising lotion
- Travel wash & small washcloth
- Hand sanitiser, wet wipes
- Trekking poles (optional)
If you don’t want to purchase your own kit or need to travel light, you can hire most of the equipment from our guides in-country. Get in touch for the list and rental prices. Please note that all plastic bags, regardless of their thickness, are prohibited from being brought into Tanzania. This excludes packaging for medical supplies.
What is the tipping policy?
It is customary in Tanzania to tip guides and porters. The amount that you tip is completely up to you. As a good rule of thumb, generally, participants will tip around US$200 – US$300 per customer (not per guide). You can give this to the head guide, and they will distribute it amongst the team of guides, porters, and cooks.
Are single supplements available?
Yes, If you are travelling solo and would like your own room and tent for the duration of the trip, you can pay for a single supplement. The single supplement is an optional extra with a cost of $50 per traveller. This is payable in-country. Should you not wish to apply the single supplement, we will pair you with another group member to share accommodation during the trek (twin hotel room and shared tent).
On your trip
What type of food do we eat on the trek?
You have chefs with you on the hike who can cater to all dietary requirements. During the trek, you will be provided with three nutritious and filling meals each day to keep energy levels high. Please provide full details of any dietary requirements and allergies on your Trip Form. You will receive a link to fill this out shortly after booking. Note that lunch and Dinner (at the hotel) on your first and final day is not included.
Do we get our own portable toilet?
Portable toilets are available as an optional extra to enhance your comfort during the climb. For individual travelers, this service costs $70 per person, payable at our offices in-country. However, for groups, we provide portable toilets free of charge as part of our commitment to making your group adventure as enjoyable and convenient as possible.
How many people are in the group?
Most groups have 3 people, with a maximum of 14.
What is the accommodation like on the Machame route?
Accommodation during the trek is in campsites in spacious tents shared between two people. The campsites provide basic facilities, such as toilets and dining tents. In Moshi (before and after the trek), you stay in hotel accommodation.
What about water on the trek?
Every day on the trek we will provide you with filtered water to fill up your bottles. The water is filtered and boiled by a Katadyn filtration system. We recommend you also bring water purification tablets or a filter bottle.
How long does it take to complete the Machame Route?
This is a 7-day version of the popular Machame route up Kilimanjaro. There is a shorter option (6-Day Machame Trek). If you have the time, we strongly recommend this longer option. The extra day is extremely beneficial to the acclimatisation process and gives you the best possible chance of reaching the summit.
Where does the trip start and end?
The start and end point of this tour is Kilimanjaro International Airport. There are three pick-up times (10:00 AM, 5:00 PM or 11:59 PM). On the last date, you can fly at any time. Your guides will arrange transfers that work best for the group. Guests typically fly with BA, Air France, or Qatar. However, we’d recommend comparing a few airlines.
Is a porter included? What are weight limits?
Porters are included as part of your trekking team. The porters will carry all the supplies, camping gear, water and also your main luggage. There is a 15kg limit for personal luggage that the porters will carry. This should be packed into a flexible duffel bag, 90l is a good size. This personal luggage includes your sleeping bag (provided) which must also fit into the duffel bag. Extra luggage and suitcases can be left in the locked storage room of the lodge.
Other FAQs
What is the success rate of reaching the summit via the Machame route?
The success rate of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame route is approximately 85% to 90%. Proper acclimatisation, physical fitness, and following the guidance of experienced guides significantly increase the chances of reaching the summit.
What is the weather like on Kilmanjaro?
Kilimanjaro is very close to the equator, so the temperatures are very similar year-round. They can range from around 20°C(68°F) at the base to -10°C (14°F) on the summit. The dry season is June-September, and during these times, there is typically just a dusting of snow on the summit. These are also the busiest months. The wet season is Nov-May, where snow depth on the summit can regularly be 20-30cm.
Can I extend my trip with a safari?
Yes, of course! Safari in Tanzania is an amazing experience – simply message the Bush Lion team before/ after booking and we’ll help you arrange a 2-7 day safari.
Are there any age restrictions for the Machame route?
Climbers must be at least 10 years old to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Any person under the age of 15 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
