Machame Route 6 Days – Javiva Adventures
6-Day Machame Route Kilimanjaro Trek + 2 Nights Hotel Stay
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Javiva Adventures as you conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the renowned Machame Route. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” this scenic yet demanding path offers one of the highest success rates for reaching Uhuru Peak, thanks to its “trek high, sleep low” acclimatization advantage.
Tour Highlights
- Starts in Nairobi and ends in Arusha/Moshi or returns to Nairobi.
- Group size: Minimum 1 person, maximum 10 people.
- Experience the thrill of summiting Africa’s highest peak.
- Full-board meal plan while on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included).
- Professional guides, porters, and cooks for your safety and comfort.
- 5 nights in mountain tents under the stars.
- 2 nights in Arusha hotel (bed & breakfast).
Final Gear Checklist
Ensure you’re fully prepared for the climb by following this essential checklist:
Travel Documents:
- Valid passport & visa
- Travel & medical insurance
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Essential Items:
- Large duffel bag for climbing gear (carried by porters)
- Day backpack (20-35L) for essentials
- Sleeping bag (suitable for -10°C)
- Hiking poles
- Water bottles (4L capacity minimum)
- Sunglasses & sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Clothing & Footwear:
- Waterproof jacket & pants (Gore-Tex recommended)
- Fleece layers & thermal underwear
- Warm gloves, hat, and balaclava
- Waterproof hiking boots (broken in)
- Extra socks & gaiters
Medical & First Aid:
- Altitude sickness tablets (Diamox, if needed)
- Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol)
- Anti-diarrhea medication
- Blister plasters & antiseptic cream
- Water purification tablets
- Insect repellent
- Hiking Time: 7 hours | Distance: ~10.8 km | Habitat: Montane Forest
- After breakfast, take a 45-minute drive to Machame Gate for registration.
- Start your trek through a lush rainforest, where the trail can be muddy and slippery.
- Arrive at Machame Camp, where your porters will have set up your tent.
- Enjoy dinner and rest as temperatures drop near freezing.
- Hiking Time: 6 hours | Distance: ~5.2 km | Habitat: Moorland
- A challenging but rewarding ascent leads to the Shira Plateau.
- Stunning views of the Western Breach and its glaciers.
- Reach Shira Camp, where the temperature drops significantly below freezing.
- Hiking Time: 7 hours | Distance: ~10.7 km | Habitat: Semi-desert
- Trek through rocky terrain towards Lava Tower, reaching 4,642m.
- High altitude effects may set in, such as headaches and fatigue.
- Descend to Barranco Camp, enjoying breathtaking views of the Great Barranco Wall.
- Acclimatization day to increase summit success rate.
- Hiking Time: 8 hours | Distance: ~9.4 km | Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Climb the Great Barranco Wall, a highlight of the trek.
- Traverse the Karanga Valley, the last water stop before summit night.
- Arrive at Barafu Camp, where you prepare for your final ascent.
- Rest early to conserve energy for the midnight summit push.
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to summit | 6-8 hours descent | Distance: ~4.5 km ascent, 10.8 km descent
- Wake at 11:20 PM and begin your midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- Reach Stella Point (5,739m) in time for a breathtaking sunrise.
- A final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.
- Descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp.
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours | Distance: ~8.5 km | Habitat: Forest
- Enjoy your last scenic hike down to Mweka Gate.
- Receive your summit certificates.
- Transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved hot shower and celebration dinner.