Mt. Kilimanjaro Hiking
MT KILIMANJARO – ROUTES DESCRIPTION
MARANGU ROUTE
The Marangu route, also known as the Coca-Cola route, is the most popular way to reach the summit of the mountain. This route offers a gradual ascent and does not require professional equipment. Accommodation is provided in mountain huts that offer all the basic necessities.
Mandara Hut (2700m) and Kibo Hut (4700m) each have 60 bunk beds, while Horombo Hut (3720m), which is also used for descent, has 120 bunk beds. Climbers are provided with mattresses and pillows, but are advised to bring their own sleeping bags. Communal dining halls, washrooms, and toilets are available.
The round trip usually takes 5 days and 4 nights, but can also be extended to 6 days and 5 nights, to allow for acclimatization with an additional day at Horombo Hut. The cost for an extra day is indicated separately as an option.
MACHAME ROUTE
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is a challenging climb despite its relatively short length. While not technically difficult, the route features numerous steep trails that demand exceptional physical strength and conditioning.
Nevertheless, the Machame Route is highly rewarding, offering breathtaking views of landmarks such as Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and Shira Plateau, making it the most scenic route available. The journey commences at Machame Gate, traversing the lush rainforest and heading west around Kibo.
Hikers may choose between 6 and 7-day options, though it is important to note that the shorter option does not include an acclimatization day to adjust to the high altitude conditions. The Machame Route also requires overnight camping and significant physical endurance to complete. The descent concludes at Mweka Gate.
RONGAI ROUTE
Rongai is the only route to approach Kilimanjaro from the North and is characterized by longer transportation and lower traffic, resulting in a slightly higher cost compared to other routes. The trek can be completed in 6 to 7 days, but it is important to note that a shorter duration does not allow for proper acclimatization to the high altitude conditions.
While not as popular as the Machame or Lemosho routes, the Rongai route offers breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peak. The success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak is relatively high, ranging from 70% to 80%. The Rongai route features a gradual and easy ascent with a dry climate, making it less prone to rainfall than other routes. Accommodation is provided in well-organized campsites with tented sleeping arrangements. The descent is via the Marangu Gate.
UMBWE ROUTE
Umbwe route starts at the gate with the same name. While not technically challenging, it is characterized by steep inclines and sections of rugged terrain that may prove arduous for those lacking in physical fortitude and trekking experience. The route converges with the Machame route at Barranco camp, but the preceding path is notably exposed, rendering Umbwe the most demanding route on Kilimanjaro.
We strongly advise against inexperienced climbers or those with limited physical capacity attempting this route. The ascent can be completed in 5-6 days, but it should be noted that shorter itineraries do not allow for acclimatization to the high altitude conditions. The descent concludes at Mweka Gate.
LEMOSHO ROUTE
Lemosho Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the West, similar to newly established Northern Circuit Route. The route commences at Londorossi Gate, leading trekkers on a two-day journey through lush rainforest and rolling hills. The remainder of the trek offers classic mountain scenery, with campsites for tent setup. Typically, the Lemosho Route is a 7-8 day trek, joining the Machame Route at Barranco Camp.
This route boasts the highest success rate and is considered the most scenic of all Kilimanjaro routes. It is intended for those who are capable of trekking challenging terrain and sleeping in small tents for several days, as well as those who wish to explore the superb wilderness. The descent is at the Mweka gate.
NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE
Northern Circuit route is the newest addition to Kilimanjaro trekking routes, providing nearly full circle around this beautiful mountain. On this route you will enjoy quiet, rarely visited northern slopes, and considering the fact that this is the longest route, there will be plenty of time for acclimatization. This is a huge plus and gives to Northern Circuit highest summit success rate.
The route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, with the first two days spent trekking through the rainforest up to Shira Ridge, before crossing the Shira Plateau. The route then heads north and circles clockwise from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp to School Hut, before summiting from the east. Descend is at the Mweka route.