HERD OF AFRICA SAFARIS

KILIMANJARO ROUTES & WHICH IS THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO? Which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro? There are 7 main Mount Kilimanjaro routes which lead to the summit, Uhuru Peak, one of which starts on the Northern side of the mountain and the rest on the Southern side. After making the decision to climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to choose your route. 1. Northern Circuit Route 2. Lemosho Route 3. Shira Route 4. Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route) 5. Rongai Route 6. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route) 7. Umbwe Route The one question we are asked more often than any other is “which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro”. And the answer depends on what you want. Here are our winners Highest success rate and overall best route to climb Kilimanjaro If you want the highest chance of summiting the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 DAYS – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best route to climb Kilimanjaro. Most scenic route to climb Kilimanjaro The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions. Quietest route to climb Kilimanjaro If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb. But be warned the success rate is lower. Most challenging route to climb Kilimanjaro If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience the crater camp option is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you- less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it. Our summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each route is below » Machame route – from USD 2,540 Highly recommended, best success rate. Allows “walk high, sleep low” for better acclimatization. Stunning scenery climbing through five diverse climatic zones. Ascent and descent is via different routes. Fully catered camping. » Lemosho Route – from USD 2,590 An excellent route to climb Kilimanjaro by with a high success rate. Allows climbers to “walk high, sleep low” enabling better acclimatization. Remote and spectacular approach with dramatic gorges and views of west Kilimanjaro. Shira route offers higher start point therefore is less good for acclimatization. Fully catered camping. » Marangu Route – from USD 2,350 Shortest route to the summit which means less time to acclimatize. Much lower success rate. Dormitory style accommodation which can be noisy. Less scenic due to ascent and descent on same route. » Rongai – Route from USD 2630 Only northern approach route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Offers a true wilderness experience on the early stages of the climb. Very tough final summit night. Less natural acclimatization with no opportunities to “walk high, sleep low”. Fully catered camping. » Umbwe Route – from USD 2590 Steep, short route with very low success rate. Poor acclimatization due to rapid ascent. Very remote and quiet for the first two DAYS. Fully catered camping. Which route is best to climb Kilimanjaro? When you are planning your Kilimanjaro climb there are 6 factors that you need to take into consideration in deciding which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Acclimatization Difficulty of the summit night How busy the route is What are the accommodation options Safety What is the success rate Acclimatization on Kilimanjaro When climbing to altitude the golden rule is walk high and sleep low. Following this rule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness and improves you chance of summiting. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro for acclimatization are the Machame and Lemosho routes as these naturally allow you to walk high and sleep low. Difficulty of the summit night The toughest summit nights are on the Rongai route and the Marangu route: they reach the crater rim of Kilimanjaro on the North, opposite Uhuru Peak and more than 2 hours from the summit itself. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro to avoid this are the Machame and Lemosho routes as they reach the crater at Stellar point less than an hour’s walk from the summit. An extra hour on what is already a very long DAYS is often the straw that breaks the camel’s back. How busy the route is The amount of climbers on the mountain varies a lot depending on the season and on the DAYS of the week but even taking this into account if you want to have the mountain more to yourself the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Rongai route. This route starts in the North and is used by a lot less climbers than the very popular southern routes. Accommodation on the climb The only route that you do not have to camp on is the Marangu route so if you hate tents this is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Be warned though the huts are very basic and noisy. Kilimanjaro Routes Safety We consider all of the routes except the Arrow Point route to be relatively safe if walked sensibly. We do not offer climbs on the Arrow Point route as the risk of falling rock is unmanageable . This is definitely not the best route to climb Kilimanjaro. Which route has the highest Summit Success rate As a result of the better acclimatization offered and the easier summit night the best route to climb Kilimanjaro in terms of summit success rate is the 9 DAYS Northern Circuit route ,Lemosho route over 8 DAYS followed by the Machame route over 7 DAYS. We operate group climbs starting every week through the year with different routes each week. If you are looking for a particular route you can see when we are running that route below. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ MACHAME ROUTE KILIMANJARO The most popular route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro these DAYS is Machame route, and for good reason. This trail offers stunning views, a reasonable challenge, and plenty of time to acclimate, making it a good choice for those who have a bit of extra time in their schedule. Machame route has been nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” because it is often perceived as being tougher than Marangu route, which is often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route. Unlike that trail however, camping is allowed on Machame, which means trekkers will be sleeping in tents all the way to the summit. Trekkers who take the Machame Route pass several well known Mount Kilimanjaro landmarks while en route, including the famed Lava Tower and Shira Plateau. The route wanders up and down a series of valleys and ridges, which make the walk a bit more strenuous, but rewards hikers with some of the best views on the mountain. It is for that reason that Machame route is widely considered to be the most scenic of all of the routes up Mount Kilimanjaro, providing unique and varied landscapes to pass through on each and every DAYS. The trail starts on the south side of the mountain, passes underneath the Southern Ice Field and makes its summit approach from the Barafu Camp. Machame route 3D Video Trail Overview For travelers who have a few extra DAYS in their schedule, Machame route is an excellent option. One or two additional DAYS of acclimatization can make a big difference in the success rate, so trekkers who choose this route reach the summit more often, despite the fact that this is a more challenging hike than Marangu route. One of the biggest and most intimidating of those challenges is the Barranco Wall, a steep cliff face that can look quite scary upon first approach. In reality, Barranco isn’t nearly as frightening or difficult as it first appears, although you will have to watch your step, and possibly use your hands for extra leverage while scrambling over certain sections. The climb usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half to complete, and the view from the top makes it worth the effort. The downside of the Machame Route is that it can get crowded at times. Because it is so scenic, and offers a few extra DAYS to acclimate, it is a popular choice for Kilimanjaro trekkers, which can make the trail and campsites very busy, particularly during the high season. Still, if you’re looking for the quintessential Kilimanjaro experience, it is difficult to beat Machame route. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Machame as a seven DAYS climb or as a six DAYS climb. The six DAYS variation combines DAYS four and five, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without staying at Karanga. You Skip Karanga Camp Machame Route 7 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Machame Gate to the summit and finish at Mweka Gate. For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Machame Route please click on this link: 7 DAYS Machame Route Machame Route Detailed Itinerary The itinerary below describes the 6 nights/7 DAYS Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame route. To shorten the below itinerary to six DAYS you skip the night in the Karanga Valley and instead walk straight from the Barranco Huts to the Barafu Huts in one DAYS. Duration: 6 nights /7 DAYS Climb DAYS 1: Machame Hut Camp A short drive brings us to the Machame trailhead (~5,380’). After the climbers and crew have checked in with the park rangers, we will hike up through the montane forests, winding up the mossy jungle, making our way to Machame Hut camp. Hiking: 5-7 hours Overnight Altitude: ~9,350′ DAYS 2: Shira Plateau After breakfast, our hike continues through the forest. We will take our time, soaking in the scenery as we make our way through the moorlands. We will be treated to spectacular views of Kibo peak. Hiking: 4-6 hours Overnight Altitude: ~12,500′ DAYS 3: Barranco Camp ToDAYS is a long DAYS but lots of acclimatization as you climb high, sleep low. We will take an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower (~15,190’) for lunch, before descending to the Barranco valley. For those who have energy, and if time and weather permit, there’s the possibility to scramble up the Lava Tower itself. The scenery is amazing toDAYS, passing through different zones of the mountain. Hiking: 6-8 hours Overnight Altitude: ~13,044′ DAYS 4: Karanga Camp ToDAYS you’ll continue to acclimatize and let your body adjust to these higher altitudes, in preparation for your upcoming summit push. Climb the steep Barranco Wall and then go up and down several ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga camp. There will likely be time for an acclimatization hike in the afternoon. Hiking: 4-5 hours Overnight Altitude: ~13,106′ DAYS 5: Barafu Camp ToDAYS you’ll continue your circuit and arrive at your final camp before the summit (Barafu camp). Some ups and downs along ridges and valleys along the way. You’ll have an early supper, sleep for a few hours, and then arise at about 11:00 PM to start tomorrow’s summit ascent. Hiking: 3-4 hours Overnight Altitude: ~15,331′ DAYS 6: Summit and Mweka Camp Start hiking at around midnight, using your headlamps to lead the way slowly up to Stella Point and then the summit. Due to the altitude, you will hike slowly, and will need to dress warmly for the cold. After celebrating with photos at the summit, descend down to Mweka camp. Hiking: 6-7 hours ascent to the summit, then 6-9 hours of descent Summit: ~19,341′ Overnight Altitude: ~10,500′ DAYS 7: Mweka Park Gate (~5,000’) to Arusha We make the final descent through the rain forest to Mweka Gate. Here we will have lunch and say goodbye to our mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Drive back to Arusha for a hot shower and a celebratory dinner. Hiking: 3-5 hours Frequently asked questions How difficult is the Machame Route? The Machame route is considered one of the less difficult routes on Kilimanjaro as it’s longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization. However, hikers will still need to ascend the Barranco Wall and climb steeply on summit night. No technical climbing is required but a good level of fitness is highly recommended. You can read more on training to climb Kilimanjaro and our Kilimanjaro training program page to help you prepare accordingly. What is the distance of the Machame Route and how many DAYS does it take? The approximately trekking distance for the Machame Route is 62 km or 37 miles the entire climb from trail head up to the summit and all the way down to Mweka gate. The shortest number of DAYS required for Machame Route is 6 DAYS, but by the time you have added on arrival and departure DAYS it is 10. However, as it is a much longer approach route it is actually best done over 7 or 8 DAYS to increase your changes of success. What is the Machame Route Summit Success Rate? Due to it’s climb high sleep low mechanism, summit success rates on the Machame route are very high. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 85% for the 7 DAYS trek and a 73% success rate for the 6 DAYS trek. However, We have a 95% summit success rate for the Machame route. Read more about how many DAYS it takes to climb Kilimanjaro to know why we recommend longer treks. What is the Scenery like on the Machame Route? The scenery is extremely varied and you will pass through 5 climatic zones on your way to the summit. The trek begins in rain forest on the lower slopes before continuing up into the low alpine zone of wild grasslands and moorlands. From there you trek into the high alpine zone before reaching the glacial zone. You will encounter many incredible vistas and visit stunning places such as Shira Plateau, Barranco and Lava Tower. When is the best time to Trek Machame Route? July-September is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro, as the weather is most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. That said, since it is close to the equator it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year. April and May is the rainy season so this period is best avoided. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^66666666 LEMOSHO ROUTE KILIMANJARO The Lemosho Route is often considered the most beautiful of all the trekking trails up Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the newer routes on the mountain and shares a portion of the same path as Machame route, although it holds a few advantages over that route that definitely make worth considering, particularly for travelers who have some extra time. Starting the western flanks of Mount Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate, the Lemosho Route wanders its way up one of the more remote sections of the mountain. The trail takes hikers through a beautiful rain forest where they might have the chance to spot wildlife along the way. Black and white colobus monkeys are routinely seen in the forests, as are blue monkeys, small lizard and a wide assortment of birds. From there, the path wanders out onto the Shira Plateau, crossing it from west to east on relatively flat and easy to walk terrain. Lemosho Route 3D Video Trail Overview The early DAYS on the Lemosho Route provides plenty of solitude, as this trail sees far less traffic than Machame route and Marangu route. This makes an already-great trekking adventure even more spectacular as at times it will feel like you have the entire mountain to yourself. Eventually however, Lemosho route merges with Machame route, and the amount of traffic begins to increase. But if you’re looking for a little peace and quiet in the early going of the climb, this is a great option. Because it follows the Machame Route for a portion of the climb, much of the same scenery is found on Lemosho route as well, including the Lava Tower and Barranco Wall. But, in those first few DAYS this trail offers some unique views of the surrounding landscapes that aren’t visible from any other place on the mountain. Travelers will get the chance to wander through pristine rain forests and hike up to the Shira Plateau, where once above the tree line stunning vistas await. Because of its remote nature and lengthier route, Lemosho takes a few extra DAYS to trek. Most people spend seven or eight DAYS on this trail, which causes the success rate to increase fairly dramatically. If you’re looking to maximize your chances of reaching the top of the mountain, this is certainly one of the best options to choose, particularly over Machame route and Marangu route. Despite the higher success rate however, it should be noted that Lemosho route is a more strenuous hike than the “Whiskey” and “Coca-Cola” routes. There are certain sections of the trail that are steeper and more demanding, and of course trekkers spend an extra night or two sleeping in tents as well. Still, the advantages of this route truly make it stand out from the others, making it an increasingly popular choice for adventurous travelers. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Lemosho as 7 DAYS or 8 DAYS climb. The seven DAYS variation combines DAYS five and six, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without staying at Karanga. Lemosho Route 7 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Londorossi Gate to the summit and finishing at Mweka Gate.For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Lemosho Route please click on this link: 7 DAYS Lemosho Route Lemosho Route Detailed Itinerary 6 nights / 7 DAYS Climb DAYS 1 – Lemosho Glades From your lodge, we will make our way to the Londorosi gate on the Western side of Mt. Kilimanjaro (a few hours drive from Arusha). We will begin our hike at the Lemosho trail head. Please note that in rainy/muddy conditions, sometimes the vehicles can’t make it to the true trailhead so there can be some extra hiking – After a picnic lunch, we will hike for about 4 hours to the forest camp. In the forest, exotic moss and flowers delight the eye while bird calls entertain the ear. You may see Black and White Colobus monkeys as well as signs of the elephants that travel in this area. We will overnight at Forest Camp. Hiking: 3-4 hours Overnight Altitude ~9,498’ DAYS 2 – Shira Plateau As we leave the Montane Forest and enter the Hagenia zone, our views open and we will catch our first views of the Kibo peak. This is a good acclimatization hike, as we go up and down several ridges along the way to our highest point of the DAYS at 11,500’ before descending to camp. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp. Hiking: 6-9 hours Overnight Altitude 11,500’ DAYS 3 – Moir Camp We will traverse the Heath zone of the Shira Plateau and begin climbing the western slope of the Kibo Massif. Along the way, we will enjoy a picnic lunch at Scott Fisher memorial camp (the well-known Mt. Everest guide). We will continue on to the upper heath zone and Moir camp. Depending on the weather, acclimatization hikes can be arranged in the late afternoon Hiking: 5-6 hours Overnight Altitude: ~13,650′ DAYS 4 – Barranco Camp We leave the heath zone and enter the alpine zone as we hike 4-6 hours past Lava Camp (up to about 14,300’) with its volcanic landscape and then down a bit into the scenic Barranco Valley to camp. Hiking: 4-6 hours Overnight Altitude: ~13,044′ DAYS 5 – Karanga Camp Ascend the Great Barranco Wall with views of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields, then hike up and down across some small valleys on your way to Karanga Camp. Hiking: 3-5 hours Overnight Altitude: ~13,106′ DAYS 6 – Barafu Camp Hike about 3-5 hours to Barafu Camp, again with some ups and downs across small valleys. After settling into camp, we’ll have a demonstration on use of safety equipment such as the Gamow (hyperbolic) bag and oxygen. Early supper and rest in camp before your wake-up call to start your summit ascent around 11:00 PM or midnight. Hiking: 3-5 hours Overnight Altitude: ~15,100’ DAYS 7 – Summit and Mweka Camp Summit DAYS. We will start our ascent to the summit (19,340ft – 5,896m) around 11:00 PM or midnight the night prior. The goal for you – and numerous other climbers – is to reach the peak right at sunrise. In reality, due to differences in hiking speed, energy, and altitude acclimatization, there is a several hour span where most climbers reach the summit. Using headlamps (bring extra lithium batteries, which last much better in cold dark conditions!) you will ascend 6-7 hours to Stella Point and then another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak, the summit. After a summit celebration and photo, descend to Barafu camp for lunch and then to Mweka camp to sleep overnight. Hiking: Very variable on both the up and the down; 12-17 hours typical Summit 19,341’ Overnight Altitude: 10,448’ DAYS 8 – Mweka Park Gate We make the final descent to the trailhead toDAYS, about 3-5 hours hiking. Here we will have lunch and say goodbye to our mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro and heading back to town. Arrive at your lodge usually between 3-5 PM. Hiking: 3-5 hours Lemosho Route Frequently asked questions The questions and answers below are specific to the Lemosho route. How difficult is the lemosho Route? The Lemosho route is considered one of the easiest routes on Kilimanjaro as it’s longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization. However, hikers will still need to ascend the Barranco Wall and climb steeply on summit night. No technical climbing is required but a good level of fitness is highly recommended. You can read more on training to climb Kilimanjaro and our Kilimanjaro training program page to help you prepare accordingly. What is the distance of the Lemosho Route and how many DAYS does it take? The exact trekking distance for the Lemosho Route is 71km or 43 miles. The shortest number of DAYS required for Lemosho Route is 7 DAYS, but by the time you have added on arrival and departure DAYS it is 10. However, as it is a much longer approach route it is actually best done over 8 or 9 DAYS to increase your changes of success. What is the Lemosho Route Summit Success Rate? Due to its longer length profile, summit success rates on the Lemosho route are one of the highest on the mountain. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 90% for the 8 DAYS trek and a 85% success rate for the 7 DAYS trek. However, We have a success rate of over 95% for the 8 DAYS Lemosho route and a 92% success rate for the 7 DAYS option. Read more about how many DAYS it takes to climb Kilimanjaro to know why we recommend longer treks. What is the Scenery like on the Lemosho Route? The Lemosho Route is considered to be the most scenically beautiful of all the routes. The route takes trekkers from the west side of the mountain through lush rainforest before joining up with the Lemosho Route to cross the spectacular Shira Plateau. The route takes in the west and south of the mountain and the views are incredible, particularly from on the southern circuit. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^6 MARANGU ROUTE KILIMANJARO The Marangu Route is the oldest and most well established trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro, and it remains extremely popular, despite a wide variety of other options becoming available. This path provides trekkers with the classic Kilimanjaro climbing experience, offering sweeping views and a wonderful hiking adventure all the way to the summit of Uhuru Peak. That said, it also has some unique aspects that set it apart from any of the other routes as well, giving Marangu route a character and feeling that is entirely its own. Marangu Route Marangu route starting point One of the more interesting aspects of Marangu Route is that it is the only route up Mount Kilimanjaro that doesn’t allow camping, so instead of sleeping in tents, trekkers stay in permanent huts instead. These dormitory-style shelters provide extra protection from the wind and rain, which makes this route a popular one for travelers climbing during the rainy season, which comes in April and May. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut While staying at those huts, trekkers will sleep in bunk beds equipped with a simple mattress and pillow. They’ll also be able to purchase an array of candy bars, bottled water, and soft drinks, which is why Marangu route is often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route.” Marangu Route offers a slow, steady climb to each of the daily camps, which has given it the reputation for being an easy trek. Don’t underestimate this trail however, as the approach to the final camp can be physically demanding with roughly 1000 meters of vertical gain on that DAYS alone. Of course, summit DAYS on Kilimanjaro is always a challenge no matter which direction you approach from, making the final steps onto the top all the more satisfying. Because it is one of the shortest treks to the summit – requiring just five DAYS to reach Uhuru Peak – the Marangu Route is a popular one with trekkers who have a limited amount of time for their climb. The downside to this is that it doesn’t provide as much of an opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude. Because of this, Marangu route has the highest failure rate of any of the routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. Keep that in mind when choosing this option for your Kilimanjaro trek. The Marangu Route is also the only route that uses the same path going up and coming back down. That means that while the trail is a scenic one, trekkers will experience the same sites going up as they do going back down. And because it has traffic going both directions, Marangu can also get overly crowded at times too. Still, for a classic Kilimanjaro experience, it is tough to top this tried and true route to the Roof of Africa. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Marangu as five or six DAYS private climb. The five DAYS variation does not have an acclimatization DAYS on DAYS three at Horombo Hut. Marangu Route 6 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Marangu Gate to the summit and back to Marangu Gate. For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Marangu Route please click on this link: 6 DAYS Marangu Route Marangu Route Detailed Itinerary Below, you will find a comprehensive 5 night/6 DAYS climb up Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route. If you would like to shorten your route to 5 DAYS, skip the night of the Acclimatization DAYS and continue walking straight from the Horombo Huts to the Kibo Huts in one DAYS. DAYS 1: Mandara Huts Once you have finished breakfast, it is time to leave Arusha and head towards the southeast entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park, better known as Marangu Gate. Upon arriving at Marangu Gate, you will be given the time to check-in and register. This is where you begin your ascent of Kilimanjaro. The first leg of this route takes you through the woods and the rainforest where you will be able to take in the eucalyptus trees and various species of birds. If you are lucky, you may just spot a Colobus monkey or two – keep an eye out for black or white fur! Make sure you have the appropriate equipment and footwear because the low altitudes can produce wet, muddy soil. Hiking: 5-7 hours Overnight Altitude: ~8,858 Habitat: Rainfores DAYS 2: Mandara Huts – Horombo Huts To start off DAYS 2, you will explore the final stretch of woodland as the massive stretch of moorland begins to open up right in front of your eyes. On your walk, you can appreciate the jagged peaks of Mawenzi that ascend up towards the skies of Africa. It is common for people to experience the onset of altitude sickness at these heights. It is important to pay attention to how you feel and communicate with your guide at the first and slightest indication of illness. After reaching the Horombo Huts, you will have time to unpack and experience the view of Kibo before dinner. Hiking: 5-7 hours Overnight Altitude: ~12,205 Habitat: Heath/Moorland DAYS 3 Acclimatization DAYS You will spend an extra DAYS at the Horombo Huts to allow your body to acclimate to the increasingly high altitude. You must stay at camp and relax if you are showing any signs of illness or are feeling especially tired. However, if you feel well-acclimated to the altitude, then you are free to walk up to Mawenzi Hut and admire the incredible view of Kibo and Mawenzi. Keep a steady pace and you walk the route and enjoy the magnificent landscape. Otherwise, you can take a journey to the remarkable Zebra Rocks. This requires a climb of 310 metres. Hiking: 1-2 hours Overnight Altitude: ~14,400 Habitat: Heath/Moorland DAYS 4: Horombo Huts – Kibo Huts On DAYS 4, you will walk through varied and strikingly picturesque landscapes. To begin, you will continue across the heath as it slowly turns into the parched, desolate highlands between Mawenzi and Kibo. The scenery here is littered with huge and small volcanic rocks, acting as a testament to the volcanic activity of years past. The final stretch to the Kibo Huts is very steep and physically challenging. Once you arrive at the Kibo Huts, it is time to organize your equipment and warm clothes for tomorrow’s journey to the peak. To prevent freezing, keep any water your plan on bringing in a thermos. Get to bed early, as the next DAYS’s trek requires a full night’s sleep worth of energy. You are getting ready to take on Kilimanjaro’s most ultimate challenge! Hiking: 5-7 Hours Overnight Altitude: ~15,430 Habitat: Alpine Desert DAYS 5 Kibo Huts – Gilman’s Point – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Huts As you awake around midnight, there is just enough time for a small meal before you begin your nightly hike. Many hikers consider the difficult terrain, scattered with loose rocks, to be the most difficult part of the climb. The goal is to reach Gilman’s Point by dawn. This is to make sure that you can make it to Uhuru, the highest point of Kibo, shortly after sunrise. There will be a quick stop at Gilman’s Point to experience the glorious view. Afterward, you will continue along the edge of the crater to Uhuru – this is the last part of the ascent and features a steady incline. Depending on when you take your journey, you may face snow on the final stretch of the path to the Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa and the very top of Kilimanjaro. As you reach the peak, an altitude of 5,895, you can congratulate yourself as you experience the astounding view and get a picture in front of the Uhuru Peak Sign. Now it is time to start back towards the Kibo Huts, you will find that this part goes by incredibly quickly. At the Kibo Huts, you will stop to relax and enjoy a much-needed lunch, before moving along to the Horombo Huts, where you will enjoy a well-deserved full night’s rest. Hiking: 4-5 Hours Overnight Altitude: ~12,205 DAYS 6: Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Arusha As we make the final descent through the rainforest to the Marangu Gate, we will have lunch and say farewell to our mountain crew. Afterward, we will leave Mount Kilimanjaro National Park and drive back to Arusha for a much-need shower and a commemorative dinner! Hiking: 5-7 Hours Overnight Altitude: `1,843 Habitat: Alpine Desert 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. It is a common misconception for trekkers to perceive a 5-DAYS hike to be easier than a 6-DAYS hike. However, the 5-DAYS options can be very difficult as it does not allow for much time to acclimate to the altitude. The 6-DAYS 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-DAYS hike. Because of this, the 5-DAYS average success rate is 50%! We advise our hikers with this in mind, so we only take the 6-DAYS 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. 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. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ RONGAI ROUTE KILIMANJARO Rongai route ascends Mount Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The rongai route retains a sense of unspoiled wilderness. The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. Rongai route is truly one of the more remote and wild trails on the entire mountain. Despite that however, this route offers trekkers plenty of advantages, making it a very appealing option for those looking for a unique experience on Africa’s tallest peak. Due to its remote nature, the Rongai Route is among the least visited of all of the trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. Those who choose this path will experience peace and quiet for much of the trek, encountering few other climbers prior to reaching the Kibo Camp, at which point the trail merges with the Marangu Route for the final push to the summit. Before that happens however, travelers will often have the path completely to themselves for hours or even DAYS at a time, making this a good choice for those looking for solitude in a unique wilderness setting. Rongai route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro with a slow, steady climb, giving hikers a chance to acclimatize at a steady rate. This not only makes it one of the easier routes up the mountain, it also increases the success rate substantially. There are few major obstacles to overcome along this trail and the final DAYS before summit DAYS is a short one, giving trekkers a chance to rest, recuperate, and prepare for their climb to the top of Uhuru Peak. Because the Rongai Route starts on the north side of the mountain, not far from the border with Kenya, it is also the driest route on Kilimanjaro as well. This makes it a good choice for a trek all year round, but especially during the rainy season in April and May. Most of the rain storms tend to stay on the southern side of the mountain, allowing Rongai hikers to stay drier and warmer than those on some of the other, more popular, trails. Other advantages of choosing the Rongai Route include the potential to spot wildlife, including Colobus Monkeys, in the first few DAYS of the climb. The campsites are also nicely staggered out across the route, ensuring that hikers spend a similar amount of time on the trail each DAYS. And since the trail goes up the north side and down the south side, travelers get a sense of what Kilimanjaro looks like from different perspectives. If there is one criticism of the Rongai Route it is that it may not be as scenic as some of the other routes up Mt. Kilimanjaro. While it is true that the scenery isn’t as varied and dramatic as some of the other trails, there is still plenty to see and enjoy on this path too. And because you’ll encounter so few people, you’ll have an easier time soaking it all in. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Rongai as a 7 DAYS climb or a 6 or 7 private climb. The six DAYS variation does not have an acclimatization DAYS on DAYS four at Mawenzi Tarn. Rongai Route 7 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Rongai Gate to the summit and finish at Marangu Gate. For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Rongai Route please click on this link: 7 DAYS Rongai Route The itinerary below  describes the 6 nights/7 DAYS Kilimanjaro climb via the Rongai route. To shorten the below itinerary to six DAYS you skip the night in the 3rd Cave and instead walk straight from the Mawenzi Turn Hut in one DAYS. Duration: 6 nights /7 DAYS Climb DAYS 1: Nale Muru – Simba Camp The adventure beings with the drive through villages and coffee plantations to the remarkable wooden village of Nale Moru. On the northeast side of the mountain where you meet the porters. The first part of the trail leads through moist rainforest, which quickly becomes lighter on the dry north side. Soon you will reach the heather zone. Overnight in the First Cave Camp (Simba Camp) in the tent at about 9,300 ft altitude. Simba Camp is located close to First Cave, with a magnificent view out over the plains of Kenya. Hiking: 4-5 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~9,300′ DAYS 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave ToDAYS’s stage begins in the morning with a steady climb up to Second Cave. The route takes in a long stretch of heath, distinguished by heather, wild flowers and stony paths. As you walk, you can enjoy the view of Kibo and the east-facing glaciers on the crater rim. After lunch you will leave the main trail and continue along a narrower path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. You will finally reach ‘Second Cave’, which is located in a sheltered valley close to Kikelewa Caves and surrounded by giant senecio plants. Hiking: 3-4 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~11,300′ DAYS 3: Second Cave – Third Cave This DAYS has been set aside for acclimatization, to improve your chances of reaching the summit, and reduce the risk of your suffering the effects of altitude sickness. Spend the morning relaxing and simply enjoying the surroundings. Around lunchtime, it is time to leave the camp and make your way across the heath, following a narrow path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi and Third Cave. Hiking: 3-4 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~11,811′ DAYS 4: Third Cave – Mawenzi Tarn Hut ToDAYS’s stage takes you to Mawenzi Tarn Hut. Following a short but steep climb up grassy mountainside, you can enjoy a fantastic panoramic view as your reward. The heathland gives way to rocky highlands, littered with large and small volcanic boulders that testify to a previous period of volcanic activity. After a couple more hours on the trail, you will reach the site of your overnight accommodation, which enjoys a spectacular location, nestling in a valley between the towering spires of Mawenzi. Hiking: 4-5 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~14,160′ DAYS 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut – Kibo Huts You will now find yourself walking through the almost lunar landscape that is known as ‘The Saddle’ and links Mawenzi and Kibo. On arrival at Kibo Huts, located at the foot of the Kibo crater wall, it is time to ready your equipment and warm clothes for the next DAYS’s trek to the peak. Make sure to store your drinking water in a Thermos to prevent it freezing solid. Then spend the rest of the DAYS relaxing and go to bed early to ensure your ‘human batteries’ are fully charged for Kilimanjaro’s ultimate challenge. Hiking: 6-8 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~15,430′ DAYS 6: Kibo Huts – Gilman’s Point – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Huts You will be woken up around midnight, and there is just time for a light meal before you set off into the night. Most people find the tricky terrain, where the trail is littered with loose stones, to be the most challenging part of the ascent. The objective is to reach Gilman’s Point at dawn, so you can make it to Uhuru Peak – the highest point on Kibo – shortly after sunrise. You will stop briefly at Gilman’s Point to enjoy the magnificent view before continuing along the rim of the crater to Uhuru. The last stretch of the climb features an even incline. Depending on the season, you may encounter snow on the last part of the route to Uhuru Peak, which is your final goal: the top of Kilimanjaro and the highest point in Africa. Once you reach the peak at an altitude of 5,895 masl, you can give yourself a pat on the back, enjoy the magnificent view and have your picture taken in front of the Uhuru Peak sign as a lasting souvenir of your achievement. It is then time to start the descent to Kibo Huts, which you will find passes remarkably quickly. At Kibo Huts, you will stop to enjoy a well-deserved lunch before continuing on to Horombo Huts, where a much-needed night’s sleep awaits. Hiking: 4-5 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~12,205′ DAYS 7: Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Arusha We make the final descent through the rain forest to Marangu Gate. Here we will have lunch and say goodbye to our mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Drive back to Arusha for a hot shower and a celebratory dinner. Hiking: 5-7 hours Overnight Altitude:  ~1,843′ Click here for our 2021 Kilimanjaro Dates   Rongai Route Frequently asked questions The questions and answers below are specific to the Rongai route. Is Rongai Route the easiest route up Kilimanjaro? The Rongai route is considered to be the easiest route up Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek is both gradual and steady. However, the Rongai Route does not have a great climb high sleep low profile which makes it arguably more difficult than the Machame or Lemosho routes. The 7 DAYS trek option is highly recommended as it allows for better acclimatization. No technical climbing is required however level of fitness is required. You can read more on training to climb Kilimanjaro and our Kilimanjaro training program page to help you prepare What is the distance of the Rongai Route and how many DAYS does it take? The exact trekking distance for the Rongai Route is 79km or 49 miles. The shortest number of DAYS required for Rongai Route is 6 DAYS, but by the time you have added on arrival and departure DAYS it is 9 or 10. However, as it’s considered the easiest route on the mountain it is actually best done over 7 DAYS to increase your changes of success. What is the Rongai Route Route Summit Success Rate? The summit success rates for the Rongai Route are greatly increased with the longer trek option. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 80% for the 7 DAYS trek and a 65% success rate for the 6 DAYS trek. However, We have a 95% summit success rate for both Rongai route treks. Read more about how many DAYS it takes to climb Kilimanjaro to know why we recommend longer treks. What is the Scenery like on the Rongai Route Route? The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. The Rongai route has low crowds and passes through remote wilderness areas. It is probably the only route where seeing wildlife in the first DAYS is possible. After passing through rainforest you ascend through moorlands and then up into the high alpine zones before reaching the glacial zone. When is the best time to Trek Rongai Route Route Route? July-September are the best months to climb Kilimanjaro as the weather is most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. That said, since it is close to the equator it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year. April and May is the rainy season so this period is best avoided. Because Rongai Route is on the northern side of Kilimanjaro is in a rain shadow, the month of May and November are a good time to do the trek as well. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ UMBWE ROUTE Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and it’s the most hardest and challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. The Umbwe Route is the trail for trekkers looking for a true climbing challenge. It is a quiet, seldom used path that can be very difficult, yet very rewarding at the same time. This is the route to choose if you want to test yourself on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, far from the crowds that are found on the more common trails. While Umbwe route is a non-technical climb, it does offer steep ascents and requires trekkers to scramble over rocks and tree roots at certain points. It is the hardest and most direct route up the mountain and even features several exposed ridges that are not for the faint of heart. The fitness and stamina of hikers may be tested along the way and it is best for experienced mountain trekkers who are looking for a challenge. umbwe routeBecause of it’s steep, direct approach, the success rate on Umbwe route is lower than some of the other routes. To get the most out of this climb, trekkers are encouraged to be as fit and ready as possible, as this is a steady march uphill for the first few DAYS, which is contrast to some of the other routes that make slow, steady ascents or wander up and down to aid in acclimatization. That said, the intense challenge of trekking the Umbwe Route is made up for by the spectacular views. At times, there are stunning vistas to be seen to both the left and the right as trekkers as they make their way up the trail. In fact, the early DAYS of this path have arguably the best views of any part of the mountain, save perhaps the summit itself. Umbwe also happens to be one of the quietest routes up Mount Kilimanjaro too. Because of its reputation as a difficult climb, very few people actually walk this trail, leaving it open and relatively untouched. This helps to give trekkers the feeling that they are the only ones on the mountain until the route merges with Machame route near the Barranco Camp a few DAYS into the hike. From there, it follows the familiar Southern Circuit below the Southern Ice Field before turning up towards the summit from Barafu Camp. As with most Kilimanjaro climbs, the descent is made along the Mweka Route. If you’re looking for the absolutely best views on the way up Mount Kilimanjaro, and you enjoy testing yourself in the wilderness, Umbwe route will provide you with everything you seek, and then some. It is the closest thing you’ll find to a true mountaineering expedition on Kilimanjaro. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Umbwe as a 6 or 7 DAYS group or private climb. The seven DAYS variation adds an acclimatization DAYS on DAYS 3 at Barranco Camp. 6 DAYS Umbwe Route Itinerary Overview Starting from Umbwe Gate to the summit and finish at Mweka Gate CLIMB MT KILIMANJARO – UMBWE ROUTE – 6 DAYS DAYS 1: UMBWE GATE TO UMBWE CAVE CAMP Elevation (m): 1600m to 2900m, Distance: 11km, Time: 6 hours, Habitat: Montane Forest. We will register at Umbwe Park Gate before starting our trek. The small winding path leads us up through rainforest and along the Umbwe river. The first night’s camp is at Umbwe Cave Camp, at about 2,900m altitude. DAYS 2: UMBWE CAMP TO BARRANCO CAMP Elevation (m): 2940m to 3970m, Distance: 6km, Time: 4-5 hours, Habitat: Montane Forest. We leave camp and shortly afterwards the forests ends. We can see the sheer wall of the Western Breach appearing and disappearing as the afternoon mists roll up the Great Barranco. We will camp at Barranco camp tonight. DAYS 3: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP Elevation (m): 3950m to 3930m, Distance: 7 km, Hiking Time: 4 hours, Habitat: Alpine Desert. ToDAYS starts with a short, but fun, scramble, to the top of the Great Barranco Wall. We then traverse over scree to the Karanga Valley (3930m) beneath the icefalls of the Heim, Kersten and Decken Glaciers. We will stay overnight at Karanga campsite. DAYS 4: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP Elevation (m): 3930m to 4600m, Distance: 6kms, Hiking Time: 3 hours, Habitat: Alpine Desert. We leave Karanga campsite behind to meet the junction connecting with the Mweka descent Trail. From here we continue up to the Barafu Hut. You have now completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. At camp, we can rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit DAYS. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be clearly seen from this position. DAYS 5: BARAFU CAMP TO SUMMIT TO MWEKA HUT Elevation (m): 4600m to 5895m (and down to 3100m) , Distance: 7km ascent / 23km descent , Time:6- 8 hours ascent / 7-8 hours descent, Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit. You will be woken at 23:30 with some quick tea and biscuits. We start our trek to the summit between the Rebman and Ratzel glaciers. We will head in a north-westerly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging part of the trek. At Stella Point (5732m), we will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). At Uhuru Peak (5895m), we will have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. It can be very cold at night at these elevations, but it will be quite warm by the end of the hiking DAYS. From the summit, we descend down to the Mweka Hut camp site, via Barafu for lunch. Trekking poles will be needed for the loose gravel going down to Mweka Camp (3100m). Later in the evening, we will enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep. DAYS 6: MWEKA CAMP TO HOTEL Elevation (m): 3100m to 1800m, Distance: 8 km, Time: 3-4 hours, Habitat: Montane Forest. We depart after breakfast descending down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will be suitable (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). Frequently asked questions The questions and answers below are specific to the Umbwe Route. How difficult is the Umbwe Route? The Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and its the most challenging route on Mt Kilimanjaro. Approaching from the south, the Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct climb. It is probably the most scenic, non-technical route on Kilimanjaro. It is quite taxing, primarily due to the relatively fast ascent to higher altitude, but the rewards are plentiful. Due to the fast ascension to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the traffic on this route is very low, the chances of success are also low. Good level of fitness is highly recommended. What is the distance of the Umbwe Route and how many DAYS does it take? The exact trekking distance for the Umber Route is 53km or 32 miles. The shortest number of DAYS required for the Umbwe Route is 5 DAYS, It’s a Shorter ascents with strenuous trekking DAYS. By the time you have added on arrival and departure DAYS it is 9 or 10. However, as it’s considered one of the Shortest and steepest routes on the mountain it is strongly recommended to be very well prepared and acclimatized to increase your changes of success. What is the Umbwe Route Summit Success Rate? The Umbwe Route is one of the Shortest routes up Kilimanjaro which has a very poor chance for acclimatization due to it’s steepness and DAYS spend in the mountain. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 70%. However, We have a summit success rate of over 90% for the Umbwe Route! What is the Scenery like on the Umbwe Route? The first two DAYS of the Umbwe Route trek are through tree plantations and then beautiful and rich rain forest, before continuing into the steep Western Breach and Arrow’s Glacier path, scramble up to the Reutsch Crater (5,800 meters) where trekkers spend the night near one of Kilimanjaro’s last remaining glaciers, Furtwangler Glacier. From Crater Camp, one can take an optional one hour hike to Reusch Crater, or simply explore the areas around Furtwangler Glacier. Reusch Crater is a magnificent sight. It is almost perfectly circular and the ash pit measures 400 feet (120 m) deep and 1,300 feet (400 m) wide. This is rarely seen by tourists. When is the best time to Trek Umbwe Route? July-September is the best time to trek the Umbwe Route, as the weather is most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. That said, since it is close to the equator it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year. April and May is the rainy season so this period is best avoided. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Lemosho route Distance covered: 70km DAYS to complete: between 7 and 8 DAYS Shira was the ‘original’ Lemosho route while Lemosho is now the ‘improved’ variation. The Lemosho route begins at Londorossi gate on the quieter western side of the Kilimanjaro. It advances through rainforest on the first two DAYS and later passes through a scenic heath zone with an abundance of Ericas. With eight DAYS, this is the longest route up Kilimanjaro; from the third DAYS it runs parallel to the Machame route. It is a difficult route, but excellent for acclimatization. It is considered to be more difficult than the Marangu and Rongai routes. Lemosho Route up Kilimanjaro Scheduled climbs on this route Sheduled-Lemosho3 Lemosho 8 DAYS Climb Take an extra DAYS to enjoy the varied climate zones of this scenic and challenging route and better acclimatize to the altitude viewclimb Sheduled-Lemosho4 Lemosho 7 DAYS Climb The Lemosho route is lesser known, longer and very scenic.It begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro. viewclimb Private climbs on this route Private-Lemosho Lemosho Route Private climbs for the scenic and lesser-known Lemosho route depart on whichever DAYS you choose viewclimb Lemosho Route with Crater Overnight A long and picturesque route showing the full extent of Kilimanjaro’s striking landscapes and different climate zones. viewclimb Lemosho Route via Northern Circuit One of the newer routes offering spectacular views from different sides of the mountain. Explore the largely untouched northern slopes. viewclimb Lemosho Timelapse Video Kilimanjaro Experience NAVIGATE: HOME KILIMANJARO CLIMBS KILIMANJARO ROUTES ENQUIRE CONTACT PRIVATE CLIMBS: LEMOSHO LEMOSHO VIA NORTHERN CIRCUIT LEMOSHO WITH CRATER MACHAME MACHAME WITH CRATER MARANGU RONGAI UMBWE SCHEDULED CLIMBS: LEMOSHO 7 DAYS LEMOSHO 8 DAYS MACHAME 7 DAYS MACHAME 6 DAYS MARANGU 6 DAYS ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Machame route Distance covered: 63km Machame route: minimum of six DAYS The Machame route is often considered the most striking and has spectacular views of the summit, but it is weather dependant. The route faces the wind and is on the southern side of the mountain where rainfall is heavier and the vegetation more dense. The route is steeper than both the Marangu and the Rongai routes and physically more demanding, but very good for acclimatisation. It joins the Lemosho route from New Shira Camp. Machame route is the most popular route with our guests – about 60% of our guests climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame route. Machame is nicknamed the ‘whiskey route’. You will descend along the Mweka route. This option is generally for slightly fitter hikers. Machame route up Kilimanjaro Scheduled climbs on this route sheduled-Machame2 Machame 7 DAYS Climb Enjoy this popular and picturesque route at a more leisurely pace to take in more of the sights and better prepare yourself for the summit viewclimb sheduled-Machame Machame 6 DAYS Climb The Machame route is one of the most beautiful trekking tours to the top of Kilimanjaro. viewclimb Private climbs on this route Private-Machame Machame Route Private departures for the picturesque and popular Machame Route can depart on whatever DAYS you choose. viewclimb Machame Route with Crater Overnight This new route allows a unique experience of spending 1 night in the crater rim of Kilimanjaro before you summit. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Marangu route Distance covered: 69km DAYS to complete: minimum of five DAYS, but Kilimanjaro-Experience only does the six-DAYS trek Marangu route is the oldest route and often considered the easiest. It is nicknamed the “Coca Cola”route, as it is popular and attracts a larger number of climbers than other routes. It approaches Kili from the southeast and passes through beautiful rainforest and moorlands. The ascent on this route is constant and moderate, and the trekking is relatively relaxed compared to sections of other routes. This is a good bet for those concerned about their fitness. Marangu has good paths and gradual tracks. However, the constant ascension makes for a poorer acclimatisation profile. In contrast to the other routes, you overnight in mountain huts protecting you from the elements, as opposed to sleeping in tents. Following the Marangu route, you ascend and descend on the same route and you will meet other groups travelling in the opposite direction. Marangu route Kilimanjaro Scheduled climbs on this route Scheduled Marangu Route Marangu Route The Marangu route is perhaps the easiest and most comfortable way to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro. viewclimb Private climbs on this route Private Marangu Marangu Route Take the famous so-called Coca Cola route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Rongai route Distance covered: 70km DAYS to complete: minimum of 6 DAYS The remote Rongai route begins on the side of the mountain close to the Kenyan border, running on the dry northeast side of Kilimanjaro. It takes a long drive to get to the starting point. It is the only route that approaches from the north and can be drier than most routes if you hike during the rainy season. The acclimatisation profile is fair. The route is less crowded, moderately steep, crosses a beautiful alpine desert zone and allows for good views towards Kenya and the Kibo summit. On this route, you return via the Marangu route. Rongai Route up Kilimanjaro Private climbs on this route Private-Rongai Rongai Route The remote Rongai route starts on the northern side of Kili, it is a good option as the northern side of the mountain is usually drier. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Shira (Londorossi) route Distance covered: 56km DAYS to complete: seven DAYS Those hiking the Shira (Londorossi) route will drive to the Londorossi Gate together with their transfer driver and then to the Moram Barrier at an altitude of about 3800m. It is important that you have allowed for sufficient DAYS to acclimatise to master this increase in altitude.. The route is very similar to the Lemosho route, accessing Kili from the west. Shira (Londorossi) crosses the spectacular Shira plateau and later joins the Machame route. This difficult route allows for good acclimatisation, provided you are fine starting at a high altitude. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^66 Umbwe route Distance covered: 51km DAYS to complete: minimum of five DAYS The Umbwe route is a relatively short and very steep but scenic route approaching from the south. It is the least used and most demanding of all routes. As its challenging ascend is not popular with most climbers, it is instead often used for emergency descent from the Machame or Shira routes. This route has great views, but it is the most difficult way to reach the summit. Altitude acclimatisation is difficult due to the fast ascent and the success rate is very low. Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route Private climbs on this route Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro Umbwe Climb This route is short, steep and scenic. It is the least used route and also the most demanding. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ THE NORTHERN CIRCUIT KILIMANJARO The Northern circuit up Kilimanjaro is the newest and lesser-used route that circles the north side of Kibo peak. It is also regarded as one of the best routes up Kilimanjaro. Climbers using this route must use another one to reach the summit. The trail follows the alpine desert band around the peak and offers amazing views over the lowlands below. It is good for acclimatisation and is incorporated into custom-made trips. This is a very long route, its total length depending on the access route. The Northern circuit Kilimanjaro is a rewarding and challenging climb for those who choose this option. Private climbs on this route Northern circuit Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route via Northern Circuit This is one of the longest routes on the mountain giving you time to acclimatize. It is picturesque and largely untouched. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^6 THE SUMMIT CIRCUIT The Summit circuit contours around the base of Kibo Crater and connects a few overnight sites. From different points you can choose a route to ascent to the summit. Many hikers like to take the spectacular southern part of the circuit only, where one can leave the circuit at a number of points. The Northern circuit runs along the north side of Kibo crater. The total distance depends on the ascent route you choose. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Kilimanjaro Routes – A Complete Overview Last Updated on: October 13, 2021 Are you trying to work out which Kilimanjaro route to choose for your trek? Fear not, this page will help you make the right choice. Each Kilimanjaro route has its own pros and cons. Some are great for scenery, but not so great for acclimatisation. Others offer high summit success rates but are also quite busy at certain times of the year. Let’s jump in and look at the various Kilimanjaro routes to the summit. Kilimanjaro Routes Map MIQ_Kilimanjaro Routes map_All routes (72ppi) There are seven main Kilimanjaro routes that one can use to trek the highest mountain in Africa. The eighth Kilimanjaro route, Mweka, is used for descent only. The Machame Route and Umbwe Route depart from the southwest side of the mountain and then use the Southern Circuit via Barafu and Stella Point to approach Uhuru Peak. Similarly, Shira Route and Lemosho Route also use the Southern Circuit to approach the summit and the Mweka route to descend; however, both routes begin on the far western side of the mountain. Marangu Route begins in the southeast and approaches Uhuru peak via Gilman’s Point. It is the only route on Kilimanjaro that has hut accommodation for the entire climb and uses the same trail to ascend and descend. Rongai Route starts from the North-East and passes through the Saddle situated between Kibo and Mawenzi Peak to approach the summit via Gilman’s Point. The Rongai route descends via the Marangu Route. The newest and longest route is the Northern Circuit which uses the same starting point as Lemosho but veers north before Lava Tower, circling around the north of the mountain and approaching Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point. The Western Breach is a difficult trail that was closed due to a tragic rock-fall in 2006 that killed three trekkers. The route has subsequently re-opened but is seldom used by tour operators as it offers poor acclimatization, is steep and remains rather unsafe for inexperienced trekkers. Trekkers who use the Western Breach usually approach from the Umbwe Route up to Lava Tower, before taking a steep ascent past Arrow’s Glacier and up the Western Breach to Crater Camp and Uhuru Peak. The Western Breach can also be approached using the Machame, Shira and Lemosho Route. Descent is usually via the Mweka Route. As alluded to above, there are three summit passages to the summit of Kilimanjaro. The first is via the southern slopes of Kibo, up to Stella Point and then west around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. This approach is used by trekkers on the Lemosho, Shira, Machame and Umbwe Routes. stella point The second summit passage approaches from the Eastern side of Kibo, up to Gilman’s Point and then west around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Trekkers on the Rongai and Marangu Route, and Northern Circuit use this passage to the summit. Thirdly, trekkers can use the more technically challenging approach to the summit via the Western Breach. Kilimanjaro Route Summaries Below we have highlighted some of the key features on each of the Kilimanjaro Routes. Click on the individual Kilimanjaro routes to find out more information. Our Recommended Southern Circuit Routes Machame Route machame route kilimanjaro The Machame route is highly recommended for scenic value and has a medium to high success rate, especially if you choose the seven-DAYS itinerary. The six-DAYS option is not recommended for first-time trekkers It is a good Kilimanjaro route for acclimatization as it has a climb high, sleep low opportunity for trekkers on DAYS three. Here trekkers climb from Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower at 4,600 meters, where they have lunch and then hike back down to Barranco Camp (3,900 meters) to sleep Like all Kilimanjaro routes, the Machame is a challenging trek with stunning scenery through four diverse climatic zones There is a good opportunity to split pre-summit DAYS climb by adding an extra rest DAYS at Karanga Camp (only available to seven-DAYS trekkers) to leave hikers well-rested before summiting The route has however got very popular over the past few years which means it can get busy, especially at Barranco where climbers join up with trekkers from the Lemosho, Shira and Umbwe routes The Machame route only offers fully catered camping Lemosho Route lemosho route The Lemosho is a beautiful route that departs from the West side of Mount Kilimanjaro Due to its route profile, the Lemosho can be completed on a seven or eight-DAYS itinerary and offers lots of opportunities to properly acclimatize. Because of its versatile route profile, it is a highly recommended Kilimanjaro route that has relatively high summit success rates It is also recommended as the starting point is relatively remote and hence provides trekkers with a rather untouched and wild start to their Kilimanjaro adventure. Spotting large wildlife, like antelope, buffalo and even elephant is unusual but not impossible The route also provides unparalleled and spectacular views of the dramatic gorges that characterize the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro The Lemosho offers trekkers the experience of hiking across the Shira Plateau – one of the largest high altitude plateaus in the world Trekkers on the Lemosho typically converge with Machame route on DAYS 3 at Barranco camp and use the Barafu camp route to the summit; however, it is now quite common for Lemosho trekkers to veer north before Lava Tower to join the Northern Circuit which circles the north side of Mount Kilimanjaro and follows an assault passage via Gilman’s Point. The Lemosho route can also be used by trekkers planning to climb the Western Breach to the summit Like the Machame Route, the Lemosho is fully catered camping only The Only Kilimanjaro Route With Hut Accommodation Marangu Route marangu route The Marangu route was Nicknamed the ‘Coca-Cola’ route as Coke used to be bought along the way in tea huts The route is often selected by unprepared, inexperienced climbers as a result of the reputation for being the “easiest” route, attributing to the lower success rate It is also the shortest Kilimanjaro route with a relatively poor acclimatization profile, which is a major contributor to the low success rates on the Marangu. The six-DAYS itinerary does give trekkers an opportunity to climb high, sleep low; however, the elevation is moderate and not as effective as other climb-high, sleep-low opportunities that are present on other Kilimanjaro routes Out of all the Kilimanjaro routes, the Marangu route is the only one with dormitory-style accommodation in huts for the whole duration of the climb. The huts come with mattresses and basic amenities, making them a popular choice for budget operators who don’t have the right equipment to tackle the other Kilimanjaro routes The Marangu offers beautiful views from the Saddle but can be considered less scenic than other Kilimanjaro routes due to ascent and descent on the same trail Summit Safely and Successfully We do not sell tours, we share our knowledge. Get a quote from our recommended local trek operator. Get a trek quote The Only Northern Kilimanjaro Route Rongai Route rongai route The Rongai route is the only northern start point to Kilimanjaro, beginning on the North East side of Kilimanjaro National Park The Rongai offers a true wilderness experience on the early stages of the climb, and like the Lemosho route it is possible to see large wildlife like buffalo, antelope and elephant The Northern slopes tend to be dryer than the southern slopes which makes the Rongai a great Kilimanjaro Route for trekking during the wet season. However, because the northern slopes are dryer they can also be considered less scenic. That being said, a northern approach is often characterized by clear views of Kilimanjaro – something that is not that common from the southern side The Rongai is also a flatter route for the first few DAYS which makes for easy trekking. The route is usually completed on a seven-DAYS itinerary but has limited climb high, sleep low opportunities which means that acclimatisation opportunities are not as good as on other Kilimanjaro routes Typically the Rongai route uses the passage from School Hut up past Hans Meyer Cave and Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak The route descends via the Marangu route, hence the route has fully catered camping until the last night on the mountain – beers at Horombo Hut anyone? The Longest and Quietest Kilimanjaro Route Northern Circuit northern circuit route The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro and has one of the highest summit success rates as the route offers lots of climb-high, sleep-low opportunities, and time to acclimatise The route departs from the same start point as Lemosho but then joins the Northern Circuit near Lava Tower, before traversing the north slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro The summit assault is via Gilman’s Point The route can be completed on an eight or nine-DAYS itinerary If you are looking for a quiet and wild Kilimanjaro experience, then this route is for you. Get connected with the Best Kilimanjaro Operator We do not sell tours, we simply provide impartial advice. Get a quote from our recommended local tour operator. Get a trek quote Kilimanjaro Routes (Not Recommended) Shira Route machame route Same as Lemosho, except Shira offers a higher start point and therefore poorer acclimatisation It is a route that we wouldn’t recommend because of its high start point Umbwe Route umbwe route The Umbwe Route has a short and steep beginning profile up to Barranco camp where trekkers join climbers from the Lemosho, Shira and Machame route Some Umbwe route trekkers don’t join the southern circuit at Barranco but instead continue north, up to Lava Tower and then onto the Western Breach The Umbwe has poor acclimatization opportunities due to its rapid ascent and therefore success rates can be low on this Kilimanjaro route Fully catered camping only Western Breach Route western breach kilimanjaro The Western Breach is the most technically difficult approach to Mount Kilimanjaro, but perhaps the most rewarding! The approach to the Western Breach usually starts on the Umbwe Route and then continues north and up from Lava Tower The Western Breach was closed due to fatal rockfall in 2006 but reopened in 2007 with a new and safer route configuration. Nonetheless, many tour operators don’t offer the Western Breach on their route roster Only advised for experienced trekkers – it is recommended that all Western Breach climbers use helmets and it is not uncommon to need point crampons during the wet season and sub-surface ice can be an issue Success rates are typically moderate to high as the route is usually only tackled by experienced high altitude trekkers Get connected with the Best Kilimanjaro Operator We do not sell tours, we simply provide impartial advice. Get a quote from our recommended local tour operator. Get a trek quote Kilimanjaro Routes FAQ If you have any questions about the various Kilimanjaro routes, please leave a comment below and we will respond within 24 hours. Post navigation Northern Circuit – The Newest and Longest Kilimanjaro Route Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. KILIMANJARO ROUTES & WHICH IS THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO? Which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro? There are 7 main Mount Kilimanjaro routes which lead to the summit, Uhuru Peak, one of which starts on the Northern side of the mountain and the rest on the Southern side. After making the decision to climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to choose your route. 1. Northern Circuit Route 2. Lemosho Route 3. Shira Route 4. Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route) 5. Rongai Route 6. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route) 7. Umbwe Route The one question we are asked more often than any other is “which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro”. And the answer depends on what you want. Here are our winners Highest success rate and overall best route to climb Kilimanjaro If you want the highest chance of summiting the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 DAYS – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best route to climb Kilimanjaro. Most scenic route to climb Kilimanjaro The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions. Quietest route to climb Kilimanjaro If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb. But be warned the success rate is lower. Most challenging route to climb Kilimanjaro If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience the crater camp option is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you- less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it. Our summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each route is below » Machame route – from USD 2,540 Highly recommended, best success rate. Allows “walk high, sleep low” for better acclimatization. Stunning scenery climbing through five diverse climatic zones. Ascent and descent is via different routes. Fully catered camping. » Lemosho Route – from USD 2,590 An excellent route to climb Kilimanjaro by with a high success rate. Allows climbers to “walk high, sleep low” enabling better acclimatization. Remote and spectacular approach with dramatic gorges and views of west Kilimanjaro. Shira route offers higher start point therefore is less good for acclimatization. Fully catered camping. » Marangu Route – from USD 2,350 Shortest route to the summit which means less time to acclimatize. Much lower success rate. Dormitory style accommodation which can be noisy. Less scenic due to ascent and descent on same route. » Rongai – Route from USD 2630 Only northern approach route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Offers a true wilderness experience on the early stages of the climb. Very tough final summit night. Less natural acclimatization with no opportunities to “walk high, sleep low”. Fully catered camping. » Umbwe Route – from USD 2590 Steep, short route with very low success rate. Poor acclimatization due to rapid ascent. Very remote and quiet for the first two DAYS. Fully catered camping. Which route is best to climb Kilimanjaro? When you are planning your Kilimanjaro climb there are 6 factors that you need to take into consideration in deciding which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Acclimatization Difficulty of the summit night How busy the route is What are the accommodation options Safety What is the success rate Acclimatization on Kilimanjaro When climbing to altitude the golden rule is walk high and sleep low. Following this rule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness and improves you chance of summiting. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro for acclimatization are the Machame and Lemosho routes as these naturally allow you to walk high and sleep low. Difficulty of the summit night The toughest summit nights are on the Rongai route and the Marangu route: they reach the crater rim of Kilimanjaro on the North, opposite Uhuru Peak and more than 2 hours from the summit itself. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro to avoid this are the Machame and Lemosho routes as they reach the crater at Stellar point less than an hour’s walk from the summit. An extra hour on what is already a very long DAYS is often the straw that breaks the camel’s back. How busy the route is The amount of climbers on the mountain varies a lot depending on the season and on the DAYS of the week but even taking this into account if you want to have the mountain more to yourself the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Rongai route. This route starts in the North and is used by a lot less climbers than the very popular southern routes. Accommodation on the climb The only route that you do not have to camp on is the Marangu route so if you hate tents this is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Be warned though the huts are very basic and noisy. Kilimanjaro Routes Safety We consider all of the routes except the Arrow Point route to be relatively safe if walked sensibly. We do not offer climbs on the Arrow Point route as the risk of falling rock is unmanageable . This is definitely not the best route to climb Kilimanjaro. Which route has the highest Summit Success rate As a result of the better acclimatization offered and the easier summit night the best route to climb Kilimanjaro in terms of summit success rate is the 9 DAYS Northern Circuit route ,Lemosho route over 8 DAYS followed by the Machame route over 7 DAYS. We operate group climbs starting every week through the year with different routes each week. If you are looking for a particular route you can see when we are running that route below. For travelers who have a few extra DAYS in their schedule, Machame route is an excellent option. One or two additional DAYS of acclimatization can make a big difference in the success rate, so trekkers who choose this route reach the summit more often, despite the fact that this is a more challenging hike than Marangu route. One of the biggest and most intimidating of those challenges is the Barranco Wall, a steep cliff face that can look quite scary upon first approach. In reality, Barranco isn’t nearly as frightening or difficult as it first appears, although you will have to watch your step, and possibly use your hands for extra leverage while scrambling over certain sections. The climb usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half to complete, and the view from the top makes it worth the effort. The downside of the Machame Route is that it can get crowded at times. Because it is so scenic, and offers a few extra DAYS to acclimate, it is a popular choice for Kilimanjaro trekkers, which can make the trail and campsites very busy, particularly during the high season. Still, if you’re looking for the quintessential Kilimanjaro experience, it is difficult to beat Machame route. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Machame as a seven DAYS climb or as a six DAYS climb. The six DAYS variation combines DAYS four and five, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without staying at Karanga. You Skip Karanga Camp LEMOSHO ROUTE KILIMANJARO The Lemosho Route is often considered the most beautiful of all the trekking trails up Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the newer routes on the mountain and shares a portion of the same path as Machame route, although it holds a few advantages over that route that definitely make worth considering, particularly for travelers who have some extra time. Starting the western flanks of Mount Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate, the Lemosho Route wanders its way up one of the more remote sections of the mountain. The trail takes hikers through a beautiful rain forest where they might have the chance to spot wildlife along the way. Black and white colobus monkeys are routinely seen in the forests, as are blue monkeys, small lizard and a wide assortment of birds. From there, the path wanders out onto the Shira Plateau, crossing it from west to east on relatively flat and easy to walk terrain. Lemosho Route 3D Video Trail Overview The early DAYS on the Lemosho Route provides plenty of solitude, as this trail sees far less traffic than Machame route and Marangu route. This makes an already-great trekking adventure even more spectacular as at times it will feel like you have the entire mountain to yourself. Eventually however, Lemosho route merges with Machame route, and the amount of traffic begins to increase. But if you’re looking for a little peace and quiet in the early going of the climb, this is a great option. Because it follows the Machame Route for a portion of the climb, much of the same scenery is found on Lemosho route as well, including the Lava Tower and Barranco Wall. But, in those first few DAYS this trail offers some unique views of the surrounding landscapes that aren’t visible from any other place on the mountain. Travelers will get the chance to wander through pristine rain forests and hike up to the Shira Plateau, where once above the tree line stunning vistas await. Because of its remote nature and lengthier route, Lemosho takes a few extra DAYS to trek. Most people spend seven or eight DAYS on this trail, which causes the success rate to increase fairly dramatically. If you’re looking to maximize your chances of reaching the top of the mountain, this is certainly one of the best options to choose, particularly over Machame route and Marangu route. Despite the higher success rate however, it should be noted that Lemosho route is a more strenuous hike than the “Whiskey” and “Coca-Cola” routes. There are certain sections of the trail that are steeper and more demanding, and of course trekkers spend an extra night or two sleeping in tents as well. Still, the advantages of this route truly make it stand out from the others, making it an increasingly popular choice for adventurous travelers. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Lemosho as 7 DAYS or 8 DAYS climb. The seven DAYS variation combines DAYS five and six, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without staying at Karanga. Lemosho Route 7 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Londorossi Gate to the summit and finishing at Mweka Gate.For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Lemosho Route please click on this link: 7 DAYS Lemosho Route NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE KILIMANJARO The Northern Circuit route is the newest route up Mount Kilimanjaro and arguably the best. That’s because the a combination of all of the best elements of the other routes, rolled into one fantastic hike. If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, plenty of solitude, a healthy challenge, and the potential to spot wildlife, this is definitely the route for you. The Northern Circuit route follows the same route as Lemosho route for the first few DAYS, but rather than sticking to the south side of Kibo, it turns to the little-used northern trails instead. This path is virtually devoid of other trekkers and as a result, the campsites are quiet, peaceful, and practically deserted. Because the Northern Circuit route is longer than the other trails, it gives trekkers a chance to take in more of the mountain. Not only do they get a chance to hike across the awe-inspiring Shira Plateau, they’ll also catch glimpses of Kibo Peak and Uhuru Summit along the way. It also provides amazing views down onto the open plains that are found to the north of the mountain, something that is seen by only a handful of other hikers while climbing Kilimanjaro. Which Kilimanjaro route has the highest success rate? Northern Circuit Route has the highest Kilimanjaro Success Rate which is 98% and approaches from south of Kilimanjaro. It is the newest and longest route which offers the most spectacular view of overall 360 degree scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on this route takes 8 to 9 DAYS for the summit. Due to its extended length, much of which hovers around the same altitude for improved acclimatization, the Northern Circuit route has the highest success rate of any of the routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek begins at the Londorossi Gate and makes its way up the western flanks of the mountain, passing through the rainforest and climbing onto the the Shira Ridge. From there, it is up to the Shira Plateau itself, before heading north to circle in a clockwise direction starting at the Moir Hut, then moving on to Buffalo Camp, and finally School Hut. Along the way, trekkers make an almost 360 degree hike around Kilimanjaro, before summiting from the east. So with everything that the Northern Circuit route has going for it, what’s the downside? The only issue with hiking this route is that it requires a bit of extra time, something that few travelers have. While most of the other routes can be done in as few as six or seven DAYS, the Northern Circuit route often requires as many as nine or more. That often limits the number of people who can work this trail into their schedule, although those that do will find that it is completely worth it. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers the Northern Circuit 9 DAYS trek. Northern Circuit 9 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Londorossi Gate to the summit and finish at Mweka Gate. For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Northern Circuit Route please click on this link: 9 DAYS Northern Circuit Route MARANGU ROUTE KILIMANJARO The Marangu Route is the oldest and most well established trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro, and it remains extremely popular, despite a wide variety of other options becoming available. This path provides trekkers with the classic Kilimanjaro climbing experience, offering sweeping views and a wonderful hiking adventure all the way to the summit of Uhuru Peak. That said, it also has some unique aspects that set it apart from any of the other routes as well, giving Marangu route a character and feeling that is entirely its own. Marangu Route Marangu route starting point One of the more interesting aspects of Marangu Route is that it is the only route up Mount Kilimanjaro that doesn’t allow camping, so instead of sleeping in tents, trekkers stay in permanent huts instead. These dormitory-style shelters provide extra protection from the wind and rain, which makes this route a popular one for travelers climbing during the rainy season, which comes in April and May. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut While staying at those huts, trekkers will sleep in bunk beds equipped with a simple mattress and pillow. They’ll also be able to purchase an array of candy bars, bottled water, and soft drinks, which is why Marangu route is often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route.” Marangu Route offers a slow, steady climb to each of the daily camps, which has given it the reputation for being an easy trek. Don’t underestimate this trail however, as the approach to the final camp can be physically demanding with roughly 1000 meters of vertical gain on that DAYS alone. Of course, summit DAYS on Kilimanjaro is always a challenge no matter which direction you approach from, making the final steps onto the top all the more satisfying. Because it is one of the shortest treks to the summit – requiring just five DAYS to reach Uhuru Peak – the Marangu Route is a popular one with trekkers who have a limited amount of time for their climb. The downside to this is that it doesn’t provide as much of an opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude. Because of this, Marangu route has the highest failure rate of any of the routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. Keep that in mind when choosing this option for your Kilimanjaro trek. The Marangu Route is also the only route that uses the same path going up and coming back down. That means that while the trail is a scenic one, trekkers will experience the same sites going up as they do going back down. And because it has traffic going both directions, Marangu can also get overly crowded at times too. Still, for a classic Kilimanjaro experience, it is tough to top this tried and true route to the Roof of Africa. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Marangu as five or six DAYS private climb. The five DAYS variation does not have an acclimatization DAYS on DAYS three at Horombo Hut. Marangu Route 6 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Marangu Gate to the summit and back to Marangu Gate. For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Marangu Route please click on this link: 6 DAYS Marangu Route RONGAI ROUTE KILIMANJARO Rongai route ascends Mount Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The rongai route retains a sense of unspoiled wilderness. The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. Rongai route is truly one of the more remote and wild trails on the entire mountain. Despite that however, this route offers trekkers plenty of advantages, making it a very appealing option for those looking for a unique experience on Africa’s tallest peak. Due to its remote nature, the Rongai Route is among the least visited of all of the trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. Those who choose this path will experience peace and quiet for much of the trek, encountering few other climbers prior to reaching the Kibo Camp, at which point the trail merges with the Marangu Route for the final push to the summit. Before that happens however, travelers will often have the path completely to themselves for hours or even DAYS at a time, making this a good choice for those looking for solitude in a unique wilderness setting. Rongai route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro with a slow, steady climb, giving hikers a chance to acclimatize at a steady rate. This not only makes it one of the easier routes up the mountain, it also increases the success rate substantially. There are few major obstacles to overcome along this trail and the final DAYS before summit DAYS is a short one, giving trekkers a chance to rest, recuperate, and prepare for their climb to the top of Uhuru Peak. Because the Rongai Route starts on the north side of the mountain, not far from the border with Kenya, it is also the driest route on Kilimanjaro as well. This makes it a good choice for a trek all year round, but especially during the rainy season in April and May. Most of the rain storms tend to stay on the southern side of the mountain, allowing Rongai hikers to stay drier and warmer than those on some of the other, more popular, trails. Other advantages of choosing the Rongai Route include the potential to spot wildlife, including Colobus Monkeys, in the first few DAYS of the climb. The campsites are also nicely staggered out across the route, ensuring that hikers spend a similar amount of time on the trail each DAYS. And since the trail goes up the north side and down the south side, travelers get a sense of what Kilimanjaro looks like from different perspectives. If there is one criticism of the Rongai Route it is that it may not be as scenic as some of the other routes up Mt. Kilimanjaro. While it is true that the scenery isn’t as varied and dramatic as some of the other trails, there is still plenty to see and enjoy on this path too. And because you’ll encounter so few people, you’ll have an easier time soaking it all in. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Rongai as a 7 DAYS climb or a 6 or 7 private climb. The six DAYS variation does not have an acclimatization DAYS on DAYS four at Mawenzi Tarn. Rongai Route 7 DAYS Itinerary Overview Starting from Rongai Gate to the summit and finish at Marangu Gate. For a DAYS-by-DAYS itinerary for the Rongai Route please click on this link: 7 DAYS Rongai Route UMBWE ROUTE Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and it’s the most hardest and challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. The Umbwe Route is the trail for trekkers looking for a true climbing challenge. It is a quiet, seldom used path that can be very difficult, yet very rewarding at the same time. This is the route to choose if you want to test yourself on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, far from the crowds that are found on the more common trails. While Umbwe route is a non-technical climb, it does offer steep ascents and requires trekkers to scramble over rocks and tree roots at certain points. It is the hardest and most direct route up the mountain and even features several exposed ridges that are not for the faint of heart. The fitness and stamina of hikers may be tested along the way and it is best for experienced mountain trekkers who are looking for a challenge. umbwe routeBecause of it’s steep, direct approach, the success rate on Umbwe route is lower than some of the other routes. To get the most out of this climb, trekkers are encouraged to be as fit and ready as possible, as this is a steady march uphill for the first few DAYS, which is contrast to some of the other routes that make slow, steady ascents or wander up and down to aid in acclimatization. That said, the intense challenge of trekking the Umbwe Route is made up for by the spectacular views. At times, there are stunning vistas to be seen to both the left and the right as trekkers as they make their way up the trail. In fact, the early DAYS of this path have arguably the best views of any part of the mountain, save perhaps the summit itself. Umbwe also happens to be one of the quietest routes up Mount Kilimanjaro too. Because of its reputation as a difficult climb, very few people actually walk this trail, leaving it open and relatively untouched. This helps to give trekkers the feeling that they are the only ones on the mountain until the route merges with Machame route near the Barranco Camp a few DAYS into the hike. From there, it follows the familiar Southern Circuit below the Southern Ice Field before turning up towards the summit from Barafu Camp. As with most Kilimanjaro climbs, the descent is made along the Mweka Route. If you’re looking for the absolutely best views on the way up Mount Kilimanjaro, and you enjoy testing yourself in the wilderness, Umbwe route will provide you with everything you seek, and then some. It is the closest thing you’ll find to a true mountaineering expedition on Kilimanjaro. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers Umbwe as a 6 or 7 DAYS group or private climb. The seven DAYS variation adds an acclimatization DAYS on DAYS 3 at Barranco Camp. 6 DAYS Umbwe Route Itinerary Overview Starting from Umbwe Gate to the summit and finish at Mweka Gate There are seven established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro - Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes all approach from the south of the mountain (Mweka is used only for descent). The Lemosho, Shira and Northern Circuit routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north. The illustrations below depict a three-dimensional view of Kilimanjaro's climbing routes and a close up of the approaches to the summit. Kilimanjaro routes Kilimanjaro routes summit Selecting a route is a tough choice for most. To find the best Kilimanjaro route for you, considerations should be taken for the route's scenery, difficulty, foot traffic and its altitude acclimatization characteristics, as depicted in the table below. Ultimate Kilimanjaro® has assigned overall ratings to each route.