6-Day Kilimanjaro Hike- Machame Route

This 6-day Kilimanjaro trek starts at Machame Gate, ascending through afromontane forest into the heath zone, reaching the remnants of the Shira volcano. The route circles Kibo anticlockwise, passing stunning features like giant steps and glacial valleys. Unlike the 7-day trek, this route skips a night at Karanga Camp, making the Barranco to Barafu section long and tough. The final ascent from Barafu is a night climb to Uhuru Peak via Stella Point.

Accommodation

Machame Camp Camp Mid-range

+5 +4

From Machame Camp, you ascend to Shira Camp, tackling a steep initial section that quickly gains altitude. Along the way, you'll stop for a picnic lunch on the trail. Today’s route takes you through the heath zone, where striking helichrysum and lobelia plants stand out. You'll also witness fascinating geological features, from ancient lava tubes to glacial valleys. The day ends with an overnight stay at Shira Camp (full board).

Accommodation

Shira Cave Camp Lodge Mid-range

+5 +4

Today is a "walk high, sleep low" day. You'll ascend into the alpine desert, and for those feeling strong, there's an option to hike up to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. Along the way, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch on the route. Though it's a long trek, the effort is well worth it, as this day significantly aids acclimatization. You'll spend the night at Barranco Camp on a full-board basis.

Accommodation

Baranco Camp Camp Mid-range

+6 +5

From Barranco camp, famous for its’ giant groundsels (Senecio species), you ascend the Barranco wall and hike glacial valleys to Karanga camp. Lunch is taken at Karanga valley before heading to Barafu in the afternoon. Desolate alpine desert and at times strong winds rip over this camp and yet in the evening slendid views of Mawenzi peak are the norm. A relatively early dinner is taken before heading to rest for the evening. Overnight Barafu Camp (full board).

Accommodation

Barafu Camp Camp Mid-range

+5 +4

Most people depart just before midnight for the final summit bid. Patience and persistence is the name of game to reach the summit and by dawn as the first rays of light start to appear, most arrive near the rim. Ascending via Stella Point affords a relatively short final section to Uhuru peak, the Roof of Africa! What goes up must come down and your goal today is to reach Mweka camp before dusk. Overnight Mweka Camp (full board).

Accommodation

Barafu Camp Camp Mid-range

+5 +4

A final descent of 4,500 ft brings you down to Mweka Gate where your team will have prepared another scrumptious and fresh lunch and your transfer vehicles will be waiting to collect you. Here you will say goodbye to our mountain staff before heading to the hotel near Arusha for a farewell dinner and either overnight or a day room and departure. Extend your Tanzanian vacation with Kili Climb Africa Safaris on safari, walking safari or other adventures.