Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible adventure, but choosing the right route can make all the difference in your experience. With multiple routes offering varying levels of difficulty, scenery, and success rates, it’s essential to pick the one that suits your goals, fitness level, and schedule.

In this guide, we’ll break down the different routes, including their durations, difficulty, scenery, and recommendations.

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1. Marangu Route (5-6 Days)

• Nickname: Coca-Cola Route
• Duration: 5-6 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Success Rate: Low on the 5-day itinerary; moderate on the 6-day itinerary
• Scenery: Scenic but less diverse compared to other routes
• Accommodation: Huts (the only route with this option)

The Marangu Route is one of the oldest and most popular routes. It’s the only route that offers hut accommodations instead of camping, making it a great option for those who prefer not to sleep in a tent. However, it has a lower success rate due to limited time for acclimatization on the shorter itinerary.

Recommended For: Beginners looking for a straightforward and more comfortable climb.

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2. Machame Route (6-7 Days)

• Nickname: Whiskey Route
• Duration: 6-7 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Success Rate: High on the 7-day itinerary
• Scenery: Diverse and stunning, with views of Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and Uhuru Peak
• Accommodation: Camping

The Machame Route is the most popular route on Kilimanjaro. It offers incredible scenery and a good acclimatization profile. The trek is challenging, with steep ascents and descents, but it’s rewarding for those willing to push themselves.

Recommended For: Hikers looking for a challenging but scenic route with a high success rate.

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3. Lemosho Route (7-8 Days)

• Duration: 7-8 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Success Rate: High
• Scenery: Spectacular; starts in lush rainforest and offers panoramic views of the mountain
• Accommodation: Camping

The Lemosho Route starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro and is considered one of the most beautiful routes. It offers excellent acclimatization opportunities and fewer crowds on the first few days.

Recommended For: Those who want a quieter, scenic climb with a high success rate.

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4. Rongai Route (6-7 Days)

• Duration: 6-7 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Success Rate: Moderate to high
• Scenery: Less varied but offers stunning views of Kenya and the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro
• Accommodation: Camping

The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. It’s drier and less crowded than other routes, but the scenery is less diverse. This route is ideal during the rainy season because it avoids heavy rainfall on the southern side.

Recommended For: Climbers looking for a quieter, drier route with steady ascents.

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5. Umbwe Route (5-6 Days)

• Duration: 5-6 days
• Difficulty: Very hard
• Success Rate: Low due to poor acclimatization profile
• Scenery: Beautiful but intense, with steep climbs from the start
• Accommodation: Camping

The Umbwe Route is the shortest and steepest route, making it the most challenging. It offers breathtaking views but has a low success rate because it doesn’t allow enough time for acclimatization.

Recommended For: Experienced climbers or those short on time who are confident in their physical fitness.

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6. Northern Circuit Route (9 Days)

• Duration: 9 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Success Rate: Very high
• Scenery: Stunning and diverse; circles around the northern slopes with panoramic views
• Accommodation: Camping

The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route. It’s ideal for those who want a more relaxed pace and excellent acclimatization. The route provides some of the best views of Kilimanjaro and is less crowded than others.

Recommended For: Those with time to spare who want the highest chance of success and a unique experience.

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7. Shira Route (7-8 Days)

• Duration: 7-8 days
• Difficulty: Hard
• Success Rate: Moderate
• Scenery: Similar to Lemosho, but starts at a higher elevation, which can pose challenges for acclimatization
• Accommodation: Camping

The Shira Route begins at a high elevation, making it a more challenging option for acclimatization compared to other routes like Lemosho. It’s less crowded and offers great scenery.

Recommended For: Experienced hikers comfortable with starting at a higher altitude.

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Which Route Should You Choose?

• Best for Beginners: Marangu or Rongai
• Best for Scenery: Lemosho, Machame, or Northern Circuit
• Best for Acclimatization: Northern Circuit or Lemosho
• Best for Time Constraints: Machame (6 days) or Umbwe
• Best for Avoiding Crowds: Rongai or Northern Circuit

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Additional Tips

• Consider Your Fitness Level: Some routes, like Umbwe, require excellent fitness and experience, while others, like Marangu, are more forgiving.
• Allow Time for Acclimatization: Routes with longer durations, like Lemosho and Northern Circuit, increase your chances of reaching the summit safely.
• Book With a Reputable Operator: Guides, porters, and proper support make all the difference in your experience.
• Pack Wisely: Prepare for extreme weather changes, from rain and wind to freezing summit temperatures. You can see our official Kilimanjaro packing list here

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No matter which route you choose, Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure. Each trail offers its own unique challenges and rewards, so take the time to pick the one that aligns with your goals and abilities. See you at the summit!