There are 8 main routes leading up the highest mountain in Africa- Kilimanjaro. Each Kilimanjaro route boasts its own set of benefits, whether it’s smoother acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, hut accommodations, or a quieter trekking experience. In this guide, we will help you choose the ideal route for your trip.
There are 8 main routes leading up the highest mountain in Africa- Kilimanjaro. Each Kilimanjaro route boasts its own set of benefits, whether it’s smoother acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, hut accommodations, or a quieter trekking experience. In this guide, we will help you choose the ideal route for your trip.
Lemosho Route(15,675 hikers) is the most scenic path with an excellent acclimatization profile. Though it was relatively quiet a decade ago, it is now gaining a lot of popularity. The 6 and7-day Lemosho itineraries
Machame Route(16,111hikers), also known as the “Whiskey Route,” stands out as the mountain’s most popular path. It offers breathtaking views and robust acclimatization. Starting at Machame Gate on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, the Machame route begins in the tropical forest and traverses multiple climatic zones to reach the Arctic desert zone in the summit area.
Marangu Route(14,794 hikers), dubbed the “Coca-Cola route,” is another highly popular Kilimanjaro route, and the only route providing overnight stays in huts. The huts offer dormitory-style accommodation. The Marangu route starts southeast of Mt Kilimanjaro at Marangu Gate, ascends the summit, and returns back via the same trail.
Rongai Route (1,397 hikers), the only route starting from the northern slope, offers an off-the-beaten-path experience and is ideal for climbing Kilimanjaro during the rainy seasons. Passing by Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones, it ensures a unique perspective, with the return journey through Marangu offering views of both sides of the mountain. The Rongai is a great choice if you want to avoid the Barranco Wall.
Northern Circuit Route, the longest Kilimanjaro route, allows climbers to enjoy a quiet trek and witness the mountain from all sides. This trail, sharing the trail-head with the Lemosho route, receives only 5% of Lemosho’s traffic. It’s recommended for those seeking extended trekking experiences in remote wilderness with minimal crowds and a gradual slope.
Umbwe Route(66hikers)is one of the shortest and least crowded routes in the initial days. The 6-day variation is designed for experienced high-altitude trekkers, while the new 7-day itinerary is suitable for fit beginners. Although the first two days on Umbwe are quite challenging, the subsequent trek becomes more manageable.
Kilema Route is the exclusive mountain bike trek on Kilimanjaro, running parallel to the Marangu route and converging with it at the Horomobo Huts Camp. Few people know about it, but we are happy to organize specialized expeditions for true mountain biking enthusiasts.
Western Breach(a few hundred hikers)- this rarely used path is a shortcut to Kilimanjaro’s summit that few operators know how to navigate. The reason is simple: there is a real danger of rockfalls.
While Kilimanjaro offers eight diverse routes to the summit, they aren’t entirely independent. Many trails overlap. For example, Rongai and Northern Circuit meet in the School Hut Camp. Lemosho, Machame, and Umbweconverge in Barranco camp and then continue as one route to the summit via the Barranco Wall.
Imagine what you want your Kilimanjaro climb to be. Are you a photographer seeking the perfect shot and the most scenic route? An experienced climber looking for a new challenge? Or a parent with teenage children wanting a smooth route with excellent acclimatization? No matter your goals, we’ve got you covered! Our Pundamilia team experts have created 8 questions to guide your choice. Consider these questions below, taking notes or crossing out routes that don’t meet your expectations. By the end, you’ll likely decide on one or two routes perfectly suited to your dream Kilimanjaro adventure. Let’s begin!
If you are lucky to have an extended vacation, think about adding a wildlife safari to your Kilimanjaro trip. Alternatively, you might consider spending a few days on Zanzibar or exploring one of the other incredible islands in the Indian Ocean . This way, you can fully immerse yourself in everything the remarkable country of Tanzania has to offer!
We hope that this guide helped you to learn more about Mount Kilimanjaro routes and choose the right one for your dream expedition! Still have questions?- Feel free to reach out to our Kilimanjaro experts, or check out our YouTube channel, TripAdvisor page, and Pundamilia blog with dozens of articles on everything related to Kilimanjaro
