Mount Kilimanjaro Best Routes

Mount Kilimanjaro Routes

Mount Kilimanjaro offers adventurers a choice among eight primary routes, each presenting distinctive advantages as you ascend Africa’s tallest peak. Every Mount Kilimanjaro route introduces a unique blend of perks, ranging from optimal acclimatization strategies, awe-inspiring vistas, comfortable hut lodgings, to secluded and serene trekking paths. Our comprehensive guide is tailored to assist you in pinpointing the perfect route that aligns with your preferences and aspirations for an unforgettable journey.

Kilimanjaro boasts eight primary routes leading to the summit of Africa’s pinnacle. These paths include Lemosho (Shira route), Machame, Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Umbwe, Kilema, and Western Breach.

Moreover, each route offers various itineraries tailored to diverse preferences. Take, for instance, the Lemosho route, which presents 6, 7, 8 and 9-day options. Each itinerary boasts a distinct acclimatization profile. While the decision between shorter or longer durations might appear insignificant, the extended itineraries tend to yield higher success rates owing to superior acclimatization. If you’re uncertain about which Kilimanjaro route or itinerary suits you best for your Kilimanjaro ascent, fear not! We’ll guide you through the unique advantages and potential drawbacks of each route to help you make an informed choice.

Mount Kilimanjaro Route Ratings

Kilimanjaro Routes

Machame Route: The Machame trail, renowned as the second most popular route up Kilimanjaro, offers a captivating journey that begins amidst the enchanting allure of the lush tropical rainforest on the southern slope. This route, favored by many adventurers, presents an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive seven-day trek. The extended duration allows for a gradual ascent, providing beginners and enthusiasts alike with an improved acclimatization profile, essential for a successful summit attempt. For those considering this remarkable expedition, Serengeti Camping Safari hosts several group climbs that navigate the Machame Route. Their organized climbs offer not just a thrilling adventure but also a structured and guided experience that enhances safety and camaraderie among climbers.
- - Difficulty level: Considered moderately challenging, suitable for those with some trekking experience.
  - Scenery: Features lush rainforest, moorlands, and the stunning Barranco Wall. Offers diverse landscapes.
  - Duration: Usually completed in 6-7 days, allowing for better acclimatization due to its longer duration.
  - Best time to go: Good to trek during the drier months of January-March or June-October.
  - Acclimatization: The gradual ascent aids in acclimatization, reducing altitude-related risks.
  - Permits and regulations: Requires permits and guides; advance booking is recommended.
  - Tips and recommendations: Trekking poles and proper gear are essential. Physical fitness is advantageous.
Marangu Route: Traversing the Eastern slope of Kilimanjaro, the Marangu route offers a distinctive journey, highly sought after by climbers. Renowned for its popularity, over 30% of Kilimanjaro’s climbers in 2023 chose this well-trodden path, solidifying its position as the most favored route up the majestic mountain. What sets Marangu apart is its unique accommodation system; unlike other routes that rely on camping in tents, Marangu provides shared wooden huts for overnight stays, each accommodating groups of 4 to 10 individuals. This hut-based accommodation system presents a significant advantage, particularly during the rainy season, offering a more sheltered and comfortable option for climbers. Furthermore, Marangu stands out as the only route that utilizes the same trail for both the ascent and descent, providing climbers with a distinctive perspective as they traverse the familiar path during their entire journey.
- - Difficulty level: Considered one of the easier routes but can still pose challenges due to a shorter itinerary.
  - Scenery: Characterized by its forests and the volcanic landscapes of Kibo.
  - Duration: Usually completed in 5-6 days, with accommodation in huts along the way.
  - Best time to go: Less affected by weather, but January-March and June-October are recommended.
  - Acclimatization: Less time for acclimatization due to the shorter duration; slower ascent is advised.
  - Permits and regulations: Requires permits and guides; accommodations need booking in advance.
  - Tips and recommendations: Adequate rest and hydration are crucial due to the quicker ascent.
Lemosho Route: Embarking from the western side of Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route offers a unique starting point at a secluded trailhead, setting the stage for an extraordinary journey. Notable highlights along this trail include the renowned Shira Plateau, an expansive and breathtaking landscape, and the majestic Cathedral Peak, which proudly stands at an impressive elevation of 3,962 meters (13,000 feet), marking the summit of Kilimanjaro’s western slope. Regarded as an ideal choice for climbers seeking optimal acclimatization, the Lemosho Route has garnered acclaim among our seasoned experts as one of the premier options available. Its gradual ascent and diverse terrain offer both group and individual trekkers an exceptional experience. In fact, many consider it not just among the top choices but arguably the very best route for those aiming to conquer Kilimanjaro.
- - Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging, suitable for those looking for a more remote experience.
  - Scenery: Offers diverse landscapes, including forests, moorlands, and the Shira Plateau.
  - Duration: Generally completed in 7-8 days, allowing for better acclimatization.
  - Best time to go: January-March and June-October are favorable for this route.
  - Acclimatization: Longer duration aids in better acclimatization; the route has a high success rate.
  - Permits and regulations: Requires permits and guides; advance planning is advisable.
  - Tips and recommendations: The longer trek require good physical conditioning and suitable gear.
Northern Circuit Route: The Northern Circuit stands out as Kilimanjaro’s lengthiest and most panoramic route, setting off from the mountain’s western slope and encompassing a sweeping circuit around its cone before ascending to the summit from the western side. The descent, however, takes the southern slope. This impressive route offers trekkers a unique and breathtaking panoramic perspective, providing awe-inspiring vistas of Kilimanjaro from four distinct faces throughout the journey. However, while offering this unparalleled panoramic view, the Northern Circuit bypasses certain iconic features and attractions found on other routes. Notable exclusions along this path include the unique Dendrosenecio plants, indigenous to Kilimanjaro’s high altitudes, and the renowned Barranco Wall, a challenging yet iconic section on alternative routes like the Machame and Lemosho, known for its thrilling rock scramble and breathtaking views. Despite these omissions, the Northern Circuit’s extended duration and panoramic views make it an enticing choice for trekkers seeking a longer and more comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience.
- - Difficulty level: Moderate, known for its length and excellent acclimatization opportunities.
  - Scenery: Offers panoramic views and a variety of landscapes while circling the mountain.
  - Duration: The longest route, typically completed in 9-10 days, providing ample acclimatization time.
  - Best time to go: January-March and June-October are ideal due to favorable weather conditions.
  - Acclimatization: Extended duration aids significantly in acclimatization with its gradual ascent.
  - Permits and regulations: Requires permits and guides; early bookings are advised.
  - Tips and recommendations: Mental preparedness for the longer duration is crucial; ensure proper gear and fitness.
Rongai Route: The Rongai route stands distinguished as the solitary pathway on the northern face of Kilimanjaro, situated in close proximity to the Kenyan border. Leading adventurers through a scenic and serene pine tree forest, this less-traveled route offers a unique and picturesque journey, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter and more solitary Kilimanjaro climb experience. One of its standout features is the flexibility it offers, making it suitable for climbing at various times of the year, presenting a viable option for Kilimanjaro ascents regardless of the season. Moreover, the descent along the Rongai trail aligns with the eastern Marangu route, treating hikers to breathtaking panoramas of Kilimanjaro’s eastern expanse, unveiling awe-inspiring vistas that captivate and linger in the memories of those who traverse its winding paths.
- - Difficulty level: Moderately challenging, known for its gentle gradients and less crowded paths.
  - Scenery: Offers views from the northern side of Kilimanjaro with varying landscapes.
  - Duration: Usually completed in 6-7 days, allowing a reasonable acclimatization period.
  - Best time to go: Less affected by rain, but January-March and June-October are preferred.
  - Acclimatization: Moderate duration aids in acclimatization; gradual ascent helps prevent altitude sickness.
  - Permits and regulations: Requires permits and guides; early booking is recommended.
  - Tips and recommendations: Adequate hydration and a steady pace are beneficial.
Umbwe Route: The Umbwe Route presents a formidable challenge, characterized by its steep and demanding initial trail, rendering it most suitable for climbers in excellent physical condition. This route’s steep ascent propels climbers to higher camps at a swifter pace compared to other trails, emphasizing the crucial significance of prior acclimatization for a successful summit attempt. Similar to the Machame Route, the Umbwe Route begins its journey by traversing through a captivating and lush rainforest. Here, amid the verdant canopy, climbers may encounter the enchanting sights of colobus monkeys and blue monkeys, adding a touch of wildlife allure to the challenging trek. However, the accelerated ascent of the Umbwe Route demands a higher level of fitness and acclimatization preparation, making it an exhilarating yet demanding path for determined adventurers seeking a more strenuous and direct route to Kilimanjaro’s summit.
- - Difficulty level: Moderately challenging, known for its gentle gradients and less crowded paths.
  - Scenery: Offers various view of Mount Kilimanjaro with varying landscapes.
  - Duration: Usually completed in 6-7 days, allowing a reasonable acclimatization period.
  - Best time to go: Less affected by rain, but January-March and June-October are preferred.
  - Acclimatization: Moderate duration aids in acclimatization; gradual ascent helps prevent altitude sickness.
  - Permits and regulations: Requires permits and guides; early booking is recommended.
  - Tips and recommendations: Adequate hydration and a steady pace are beneficial.

Mount Kilimanajaro Routes Map

machame route

Lemosho route

marangu route

Rongai route

Umbwe Route

North Circuit Route

Things to consider when choosing the perfect route for your expedition.

1. Are you looking for the smoothest acclimatization profile and the highest success rate?

In that case, Lemosho 7 and 8-day itineraries could be your number 1 choice for the best route to climb Kilimanjaro. Yet, as we said previously, 7-day itineraries on the majority of routes would offer good acclimatization and strong success rates. The extended duration of the Lemosho route provides not only excellent acclimatization opportunities but also breathtaking scenery, making it a favored option. If you prioritize a more leisurely pace and wish to immerse yourself fully in the diverse landscapes Kilimanjaro offers, the Lemosho itineraries, with their additional days, may be the perfect fit for your climbing aspirations.

2. Do you want to sleep in tents or huts?

Are you yearning for a night of tranquil stargazing? Or do you lean towards the assurance and refuge of a hut? The Marangu route stands alone in providing dormitory-style hut accommodation. So, if this is a non-negotiable aspect for you, then Marangu is undoubtedly your route of choice!

Yet, sleeping beneath the canvas is a more luxurious experience than one might envision. Our tailor-made tents are crafted with comfort, warmth, and weather resilience in mind, ensuring a serene night amidst the mountain’s majesty. Many of our clients express deep contentment with the comfort afforded by sleeping in a cozy four-season sleeping bag atop a plush mattress.

Moreover, tents offer an exclusive communion with nature, a contrast to the potentially crowded atmosphere of huts. At Serengeti Camping Safari camps on Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll discover expansive dining tents and dedicated toilet/shower facilities, particularly if you opt for the convenience of a private portable toilet/shower.

NOTE:

Routes that offer hut accommodation:

Marangu route 6 days

Routes that offer comfortable tents:

All routes except Marangu route