6 Days Marangu Route.
6 Days Marangu Route.
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is a popular and challenging path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a stunning mix of landscapes, from the lush rainforest at the base to the dramatic, rocky alpine desert higher up.
Day by Day Itinerary.
Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha
Upon arrival, a friendly driver will be waiting to whisk you away to your cozy hotel in Arusha. After settling in, join us for an engaging orientation session. Our expert guides will share key insights about your trek, and we’ll check your gear to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure that awaits!
Four Points by Sheraton Arusha
- Luxury hotel located in Arusha (City)
Day 2: Kilimanajaro Gate- Machame hut
– Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
– Distance: 11 km
– Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
– Habitat: Rain Forest
The adventure begins with a 2-hour drive from Arusha to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Passing through Machame village, the trail ascends through dense rainforest, offering a lush, vibrant atmosphere. The path can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended.
Tent
Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner Inclusive
Day 3: Shira Camp- Barranco Camp
– Elevation (ft): 12,500ft to 13,000ft
– Distance: 10 km
– Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
– Habitat: Semi Desert
Starting from Shira Plateau, we trek eastward up a ridge, passing a junction towards Kibo Peak. The landscape shifts as we approach the Lava Tower, known as “Shark’s Tooth.”
Breakfast , and Lunch Inclusive
Day 4 :Barranco Camp- Barafu Camp
– Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 16,300ft
– Distance: 5 km
– Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
– Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, we ascend the steep Barranco Wall, continuing to Karanga Valley for a hot lunch. From there, we hit the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail, trekking through the stark Alpine desert to Barafu Camp.
Day5: SUMMIT DAY (19,340 ft)
– Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)
– Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
– Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
– Habitat: Arctic
In the early hours (midnight to 2am), ascend between Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, heading northwest through scree to Stella Point (18,600ft). This is the most difficult part, but you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise.
DAY 6: Mweka Camp- Mweka gate- Arusha
– Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft
– Distance: 10 km
– Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
– Habitat: Rain Forest
After breakfast, descend through the lush rain forest to Mweka Park Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. The trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and T-shirts will likely suffice, though it’s good to have rain gear ready. At the gate, a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha for a well-deserved rest.
- No accommodation (End of tour)
Inclusions
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Exclusions
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcoholic drinks
- Services not mentioned in this Trip
- Items of a personal nature
Why travel with
Genau Adventure Safaris.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best months are January to mid-March and June to October, during the dry seasons.
Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, but the altitude and varying terrain make it challenging. Proper acclimatization is key.
Climbs typically take between 5 to 9 days, depending on the route and acclimatization schedule.
Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit are the most popular routes, each offering different experiences and scenery.
No prior experience is necessary, but good physical conditioning is important.
Essentials include layered clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, warm gear, sunscreen, and water purification tablets. Gear checks are done before the climb.
Altitude sickness occurs due to low oxygen levels at high elevations. Acclimatize properly, ascend slowly, and stay hydrated to reduce risk.
Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially near the summit, ranging from -7°C to -29°C (20°F to -20°F).
Yes, tipping the guides, porters, and cooks is customary. Typically, around $250 to $300 per climber is standard.
There’s no electricity on the mountain. Bring power banks or solar chargers.
