Sometimes it is difficult to decide which route to take on Kilimanjaro. Keep in mind that all the routes on Kilimanjaro are scenic. There is little wildlife on the mountain except for baboons on the first day trying to steal your lunch.
Consider adding the Luxury Kilimanjaro Trek Upgrade for added conveniences and safety equipment.
Machame
Also known as the “whiskey route”, this is the most popular route on Kilimanjaro and for good reason. You hike up the southwest side of the mountain and traverse across to the eastern side for the final ascent. It can be done in 6 or 7 days.
The 7-day Machame Route is arguably the best option on the mountain. It offers good acclimatization and is more relaxed.
If you want to climb Kilimanjaro in a group trek, we offer both the 6 and 7 day options as group departures.
Rongai
This is our second most popular route as it is less crowded. This is a great option during the busiest times of July, August, and over Christmas/New Years. This is also a great option when have a large group.
This is offered in a short 6-day Rongai trek, a longer 6-day trek, and a 7-day trek.
You start the hike on the northeast side of the mountain near the Kenya border. You will most likely be the only group at camp, or maybe one other group. For the last two nights, you join up with the Marangu Route, so you will have some time alone and then 2 days/nights with other trekking groups. It is fun meeting up with people from around the world pursuing the same goal!
Lemosho
This is a great option if you are looking for a longer trek. It is typically done as the 8-day Lemosho Route, but it can also be done in 9 days or 7 days.
It starts on the far west edge of the mountain, and goes around the south side. It meets up with the Machame Route on Day 3. This route can also be accessed from Arusha.
Marangu
Also known as the “Coca Cola Route,” this is the only route where you sleep in huts. It can be done in as few as 5 days; therefore, it is the shortest and cheapest option. However, we highly recommend doing the 6-day Marangu Route for better acclimatization.
Northern Circuit
This route starts on the west side at the same trail head as the Lemosho Route, but then you traverse across the northern part of the mountain instead of the southern part. It can be done in 8 or 9 days. It is far less traveled, which is a plus, but there is very little water.
Umbwe
This is a fast route up the south side of the mountain. It is not very common now that the Western Breach ascent is closed. The 6-day Umbwe trek is the most popular, but it can also be done in 7 days.
Shira
Another option on the west side that parallels the Lemosho Route. It is also not very popular, but we do offer it. The 6-day Shira Route is most common.