6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Via Machame Route
Trekking Overview
The 6 Days Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is one of the most popular and scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route offers excellent acclimatization, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking views, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a rewarding and adventurous climb.
Starting from Machame Gate, the trek passes through lush rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and finally the icy summit zone. The route follows the principle of climb high, sleep low, increasing the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak successfully. Trekkers spend nights in tents at designated camps, fully supported by professional guides, porters, and cooks.
The highlight of the Machame Route is summit night, when climbers ascend via Stella Point to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. The descent is via Mweka Route, offering a different perspective of the mountain.
This 6-day itinerary is best suited for physically fit trekkers who want a shorter schedule without compromising on scenic beauty and summit success.
INCLUSION
* All transfers
* Accommodation
* all trekking fees,
* All meals while on the Mountain
* Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
* Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
* English speaking guide
* Sleeping bags
* Porters salary
• 3 meals in a day
• Mineral drinking water.
EXCLUSION
Tips,
* medical insurance cover
* all trekking personal gears
* alcohol
* all things of personal nature
Frequently asked questions
How Difficult is the Marangu Route?
This route is attempted by many novice hikers every year as it offers comfortable hut accommodations, as opposed to other routes that require you to sleep in mountain tents. Many people attest that this route is less difficult compared to other hikes to the top of Kilimanjaro.
Marangu route common misconception for trekkers is perceive a 5-day hike to be easier than a 6-day hike. However, the 5-day options can be very difficult as it does not allow for much time to acclimate to the altitude.
The 6-day option is much easier, but a good level of fitness is still required.
What is the distance of the Marangu Route and how many days does it take to complete?
The exact distance on the Marangu Route is 82km or 50 miles. The shortest number of days required for the Marangu Route is 5 days, however, when you take into consideration the arrival and departure days, it is 9-10 days. As the Marangu Route is the shortest route on the mountain, it is best to complete the journey over 6 days to increase your chances of success.
What is the Maragu Route Summit Success Rate?
As it is one of the shortest routes on the mountain, the Marangu Route has the lowest summit success rates. This is mainly because of the unprofessional local tour guides who take groups up the mountain on the shorter 5-day hike. Because of this, the 5-day average success rate is 50%! We advise our hikers with this in mind, so we only take the 6-day option which increases the success rate to over 90%!
What scenery will I see on the Marangu Route?
The Marangu route ascends through the rainforest, moorlands, and alpine areas before ending in the glacial zone. This trek is very beautiful and is the only route that allows you to descend the same way you ascended.
Are there showers in the Marangu route?
Yes, there are showers and flushing toilets available at some of the huts in the Marangu route. However, the showers are cold and are available at Mandara hut and Horombo hut.
What is the best time to journey through the Marangu Route?
Between July and September is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro. The weather is the most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. Since it is close to the equator, it is possible to climb the mountain at any time during the year. Be cautious, April and May are the wettest months, so this period is best avoided.
