Mount Kilimanjaro Routes
There are seven established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, with one starting on the northern side and the others on the southern side: Northern Circuit, Lemosho, Shira, Machame ("Whiskey" Route), Rongai, Marangu ("Coca-Cola" Route), and Umbwe. The Northern Circuit is the newest route and traverses nearly the entire mountain, offering a true wilderness experience and 360-degree views. The Lemosho and Shira routes approach from the west, while the Rongai route starts from the north.
Kilimanjaro Routes: Complete Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Kilimanjaro routes are the officially designated paths used by trekkers to reach the summit of Africa's highest mountain, Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Choosing the right Mount Kilimanjaro climbing route is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your trek. Each route differs in scenery, difficulty, acclimatisation profile, success rate, and overall experience.
How Many Routes Up Mount Kilimanjaro?
There are 7 main Kilimanjaro routes used to climb the mountain: Northern Circuit, Lemosho, Shira, Machame, Rongai, Marangu, and Umbwe.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
To choose the best Mount Kilimanjaro route for you, there are plenty of variables to be mindful of.
WHO:
Who is climbing? The whole group's abilities must be factored into choosing a route. Are there novices in your group? Are there people who have never been to high altitudes? Pick a route that best fits everyone.
WHAT:
What limitations surround your climb? Are you bound by a budget? Or the number of days on your trip? There are cheaper and more expensive routes and shorter and longer itineraries. Get an idea of how much money and how many days people are willing to spend on the mountain.
HOW:
How do you see your trek? Do you want the most challenging route or a less strenuous one? Kilimanjaro can bring out a lot of discomfort and suffering. Some routes are more forgiving than others.
WHERE:
Where do you want to begin your climb? The routes start from all sides of the mountain. Where you begin affects cost, scenery, and scenic variety.
WHY:
Why are you climbing? Is it very important to summit? Then choose a route with a high success rate. Do you want to take the best photos? Then pick a scenic route. Do you just want to be there? Then choose a quick, inexpensive route.
WHEN:
When are you climbing? If you are climbing during the dry season, great. But if you are climbing during the rainy season or the shoulder seasons, then the route you select can play into the climb's difficulty. Climbs around holidays and full moons are especially crowded.
What Is the Best Route to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
The best Kilimanjaro route depends on your priorities: for the highest success rate, choose the Northern Circuit or Lemosho. For scenery, choose Lemosho or Machame. For budget and time, choose Marangu. For a challenge, choose Umbwe.
Kilimanjaro Routes Map & Trek Distance
Total trekking distances vary by route.
| Route | Total Distance |
|---|---|
| Lemosho | 70 km |
| Machame | 62 km |
| Marangu | 64 km |
| Northern Circuit | 96 km |
| Rongai | 65 km |
Mount Kilimanjaro Success Rate by Route
| Route | Success Rate |
|---|---|
| Northern Circuit | 95% |
| Lemosho | 90% |
| Machame | 85% |
| Rongai | 80% |
| Marangu | 65% |
| Umbwe | 50% |
How to Choose Your Kilimanjaro Route
When choosing among Mount Kilimanjaro routes, consider your group's abilities, budget, timeframe, desired difficulty, starting point, personal motivation for climbing, and the season you plan to climb in.
Why Book Your Kilimanjaro Route with Climbing Kilimanjaro Tanzania?
Choosing the right route is only part of your success. Booking with a trusted, experienced local operator like Asili Climbing Kilimanjaro ensures certified guides, fair porter treatment, and a safety-first approach on every route.
Plan Your Perfect Kilimanjaro Route Today
Explore detailed breakdowns of all Kilimanjaro routes, sample itineraries, and expert advice at Climbing Kilimanjaro Tanzania — your trusted resource for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro safely and successfully.
FAQs About Kilimanjaro Routes
Climb Kilimanjaro With the Experts | Local Guides Provided | Low Deposits — Book Now.
Tour Dates: This tour is available to start on any day throughout the year. This tour is 100% private and we can customize any aspect of it. Our tour includes a private English speaking guide for all transfers as well as for all activities, this way you will make the most out of your time and enjoy each site and each ride without missing out on important stops and/or important information along the tour.
Deposits & Payments: A deposit of USD 700 per person is required at the time of booking to guarantee your reservation and confirm space. Full payment is due 60 days prior to the tour's start date, or opt for making the complete payment (100%) at the time of booking. The tour price is per person based on double occupancy and includes those items mentioned in the itinerary plus any prepaid optional items. Single-room requests are subject to supplemental charges and must be requested at the time of booking. Group sizes are limited to a maximum and a minimum, which varies by tour.
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