Machame 6 Days vs 7 Days Success Rate – Which Is Right for You?

If you’re planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to choose the 6-day Machame Route trek or extend it to 7 days. Both options take you through the same breathtaking landscapes of rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers before reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895m, but the difference lies in your summit success rate and acclimatization schedule.

Why Summit Success Rates Matter

Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, and altitude sickness is the number one reason climbers don’t make it to the top. The body needs time to adjust, and the longer you spend acclimatizing, the higher your chances of success to reach to the peak increases.

• 6-Day Machame Route:

  • More intense pace, with fewer acclimatization days.

  • Average summit success rate: around 75–80% (for fit climbers with good preparation).

  • Best suited for experienced hikers, those with limited time, or people confident in their endurance.

• 7-Day Machame Route:

  • Adds an extra night at Karanga Camp for acclimatization.

  • Average summit success rate: 85–90%, thanks to the “climb high, sleep low” strategy.

  • Ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers or those who want to maximize summit success.

So, Which Should You Choose?

If you’re short on time but physically fit, the 6-day Kilimanjaro trek is absolutely achievable and remains one of the most popular group options. For trekkers who prefer a steadier pace and higher chance of success, the 7-day itinerary provides that extra buffer.

👉 At Macpace Tours and Safaris, we offer both itineraries, a 7-day option increases acclimatization but our 6-Day Kilimanjaro Machame Route group tour is perfect for climbers seeking challenge, affordability, and camaraderie. Check out the full package here →