MOUNT KILIMANJARO HIKING ROUTES

Before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s best to know that there are seven established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes all approach from the south of the mountain (Mweka is used only for descent). The Lemosho, Shira and Northern Circuit routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north. The illustrations below depict a three-dimensional view of Kilimanjaro’s climbing routes and a close up of the approaches to the summit.

Which is the best route to climb mount Kilimanjaro

One of the most common questions we receive is, “Which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro?” The truth is, the answer depends on what you are looking for in your adventure. Each route has its own strengths, and the best choice comes down to your priorities, whether it’s success rate, scenery, solitude, or challenge.

For climbers who want the highest chance of reaching the summit, the Lemosho and Machame routes over 7 or 8 days are the top recommendations. They offer excellent acclimatization opportunities and a smoother summit night, making them the overall best routes to climb Kilimanjaro. Since reaching the summit is the goal for most trekkers, these routes stand out as the most reliable options.

If breathtaking views are what inspire you, the Lemosho route from the west is unmatched in its scenery. With spectacular panoramas in all directions, it’s widely considered the most scenic path to the top of Africa.

For those seeking solitude and fewer crowds, the Rongai route is the quietest choice. This path allows climbers to enjoy a more peaceful experience on the mountain, though it comes with a slightly lower success rate compared to other routes.

Finally, if adventure and uniqueness are what you’re after, the Crater Camp option is the most challenging and rare experience on Kilimanjaro. Less than 1% of climbers get to spend a night here, and those who do describe it as an unforgettable highlight of their journey.

Conclusion: Our favourite route

Our favorite out of all routes, considering the scenery, difficulty, and traffic, is a combination of the Lemosho route and the Machame route. The Lemosho route takes around 8 days to trek while the Machame route takes around 7. These routes offer some of the best views of the mountain with less traffic and good acclimatization opportunities. If you need help planning your route, safari or any itineraries for your adventure in Tanzania, contact Velam Tours and our team of experts will assist you every step of the way.