Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

There are six main established routes for climbing Kilimanjaro, each offering a unique experience. Variations exist in the number of days spent on the mountain and the campsites utilized. Below are the primary ascent routes:

1. MARANGU ROUTE

The Marangu Route, commonly referred to as the "Coca-Cola Route," is one of the most popular paths for ascending Kilimanjaro. It is renowned for its accessibility and comfortable amenities compared to other routes.
This route holds a significant place in the history of Kilimanjaro trekking. Developed as one of the earliest routes, it earned its nickname from the refreshments available along the way, making it a favorite among trekkers seeking convenience.
Typically, the Marangu Route takes about 5 to 6 days to complete, providing a gradual ascent that aids in acclimatization. This careful pacing is crucial for climbers looking to reach the summit safely.
Accommodation on the Marangu Route consists of sturdy mountain huts, offering a sheltered experience rather than traditional camping. This allows trekkers to rest comfortably after a day of hiking.
One of the notable landmarks along the Marangu Route is the Hans Meyer Cave, named after the first European to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit in the late 19th century. This historical site adds to the route's charm, providing a glimpse into the mountain’s rich climbing history.

2. MACHAME ROUTE

The Machame Route is the most popular of the seven paths to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, favored by climbers for its diverse habitats and breathtaking views. Approximately 50% of climbers attempting the trek choose this route. It offers a more accessible and budget-friendly option due to its shorter duration.
Often referred to as the “Whiskey Route,” the Machame Route is known for its challenging terrain, featuring steeper trails and longer distances compared to the Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” which offers a more gradual ascent. Unlike Marangu, where accommodations are in huts, the Machame Route provides camping experiences in tents.
While the trail can be completed in a minimum of six days, a seven-day itinerary is highly recommended for better acclimatization. Studies show that climbers who opt for the longer itinerary have a higher success rate at reaching the summit.

3. LEMOSHO ROUTE

The Lemosho Route is often regarded as the most beautiful trekking trail up Mount Kilimanjaro. This stunning route crosses the Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a pleasant, relatively flat hike with fewer crowds until it merges with the Machame Route near Lava Tower.
As one of the newer routes on the mountain, the Lemosho Route shares a portion of its path with the Machame Route but boasts several advantages that make it worth considering, especially for travelers with some extra time.
In summary, the Lemosho Route offers an exceptional blend of stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and a quieter experience on Kilimanjaro, making it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the mountain’s natural beauty.

4. RONGAI ROUTE

The Rongai Route is a less popular trail on Kilimanjaro, but it offers many unique advantages for adventurous climbers. Starting on the northern slope of the mountain, the trail begins in a coniferous forest and traverses a variety of climatic zones. The descent follows the Marangu Route on the southwestern side of Kilimanjaro.
One of the standout features of the Rongai Route is its tranquility. Trekkers will encounter ten times fewer climbers compared to the bustling southern routes, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
The route is exceptionally scenic, offering stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo, the two volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro. As you ascend, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding Tanzanian landscapes and unique flora, including the Kilimanjaro Giant Groundsels and lush tropical forests on the descent.
The northern slopes, while drier and less dense in vegetation, still provide ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. Imagine waking up to the majestic peak of Mawenzi, its rocks glowing in the soft hues of sunrise, and catching glimpses of rare Bearded Vultures gliding gracefully in the sky, heading toward the distant horizons of Kenya.
The Rongai Route offers trekkers a secluded and intimate experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter adventure on Kilimanjaro

5. UMBWE ROUTE

The Umbwe Route is a direct and steep path approaching Kilimanjaro's summit from the southern side. This challenging trail leads eastward toward Barranco Camp, crossing beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field. As climbers navigate this route, they will experience the stunning landscapes and unique environments that make Kilimanjaro so captivating.
After reaching Barranco Camp, climbers will follow a path known as the Southern Circuit before ascending to their final camp, Barafu, where they prepare for the summit attempt.
For the descent, trekkers take a different route, utilizing the Mweka Route to return down the mountain.
At Shalom Trekking Adventure, we offer two climbing packages for the Umbwe Route: the 6-Day Umbwe Route and the 7-Day Umbwe Route. The 7-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day on the third day at Barranco Camp, which enhances your chances of successfully reaching the summit.

6. NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE

The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest of the eight established routes to climb Kilimanjaro. Unique among the trails, it allows climbers to experience Mount Kilimanjaro from all four sides. Some operators promote the Northern Circuit as the easiest route due to its longer itinerary and relaxed pace. While this is true—offering excellent acclimatization with less strenuous daily transitions—those without experience in long hikes may find the 8-day journey more tiring than shorter itineraries.
The Northern Circuit stands out for its exceptional acclimatization profile, breathtaking views, and off-the-beaten-path trails. As the least frequented trail on Kilimanjaro, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a more private climbing experience, free from crowds.
For the most adventurous climbers, there’s an option to spend an additional night in the Crater, joining the exclusive club of a few dozen travelers who experience this extraordinary opportunity each year.