Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes: Choosing the Best Path to the Roof of Africa

Freeman Lekey
Mar 15
2 min read

Hikers enrote to Uhuru Peak - Kilimanjaro

Introduction

Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is a dream destination for adventurers. Choosing the right route is crucial for success, as each offers unique challenges, scenery, and acclimatization profiles. This guide explores the seven main climbing routes to help you decide the best path to the summit.

Overview of Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

1. Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)

Duration: 5-6 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Scenery: Less scenic compared to other routes
Accommodation: Hut-based
Best For: Budget travellers and those seeking a shorter climb
Pros: Easier trekking, hut accommodation, less expensive
Cons: Lower success rate due to shorter acclimatization period

2. Machame Route (Whiskey Route)

Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Challenging
Scenery: One of the most scenic routes
Accommodation: Camping
Best For: Adventurous climbers who want a scenic and challenging experience
Pros: High success rate, great for acclimatization
Cons: Can be crowded, steeper trails

3. Lemosho Route

Duration: 7-8 days
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Scenery: Very scenic with a variety of landscapes
Accommodation: Camping
Best For: Those seeking a high success rate and beautiful scenery
Pros: Less crowded, excellent acclimatization
Cons: Higher cost due to longer duration

4. Rongai Route

Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Scenery: Less varied but still beautiful
Accommodation: Camping
Best For: Climbers looking for a quieter route with a steady ascent
Pros: Less crowded, drier conditions
Cons: Less scenic than the southern routes

5. Shira Route

Duration: 6-8 days
Difficulty: Challenging (starts at a high altitude)
Scenery: Scenic but similar to Lemosho
Accommodation: Camping
Best For: Experienced hikers comfortable with high-altitude starts
Pros: Beautiful landscapes, fewer climbers
Cons: Risk of altitude sickness due to the high starting elevation

6. Northern Circuit Route

Duration: 9-10 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Scenery: Extremely scenic
Accommodation: Camping
Best For: Those seeking the highest success rate and a unique, less crowded route
Pros: Best acclimatization profile, fewer climbers
Cons: Longest duration, more expensive

7. Umbwe Route

Duration: 5-7 days
Difficulty: Very difficult
Scenery: Stunning but very steep
Accommodation: Camping
Best For: Experienced climbers looking for a tough challenge
Pros: Direct and quiet
Cons: Low success rate due to steep ascent and fast altitude gain

Choosing the Right Route for You

Best for Beginners: Marangu (short & easier but lower success rate)
Best for Scenery: Machame, Lemosho, or Northern Circuit
Best for Success Rate: Northern Circuit or Lemosho
Best for Experienced Climbers: Umbwe or Shira

Maps & Images

To help you visualize the different routes, we’ve included detailed maps and images sourced exclusively for this guide. These will provide a clearer picture of the terrain, altitude changes, and key points along each trail.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Climbing Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure, but choosing the right route can make all the difference. Whether you prefer a scenic and gradual climb or a challenging direct ascent, there’s a perfect path for you.