Exclusive Guide to Kilimanjaro Routes: Best Options and Pricing

What is the best Route to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro? The Exclusive Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro routes. Mount Kilimanjaro offers seven established routes to reach Uhuru Peak, its highest point. Six routes begin on the southern side, while one, the Rongai Route, starts on the northern side. The seven routes are:

  1. Northern Circuit Route
  2. Lemosho Route
  3. Shira Route
  4. Machame Route
  5. Rongai Route
  6. Marangu Route
  7. Umbwe Route

Best mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

The question most frequently asked by climbers is: “Which is the best Kilimanjaro route?” The answer depends on individual preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the top choices:

Best Guide Kilimanjaro Routes for Summit Success

If your main goal is to successfully reach the summit, the Lemosho and Machame routes over 7 to 8 days are ideal. These routes allow for excellent acclimatization and provide a smoother final ascent. With a higher chance of summiting, these routes rank as the overall best Kilimanjaro routes.

Most Scenic Route

For stunning panoramic views, the Lemosho Route, which approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, stands out as the most scenic option. This route showcases breathtaking landscapes at every stage.

Quietest Kilimanjaro Route

If you prefer solitude, the Rongai Route offers a quieter climbing experience. It’s the only northern approach and has fewer trekkers. However, this comes with a trade-off—the success rate is lower compared to other routes.

Most Adventurous Route

For climbers seeking a challenging wilderness adventure, the Crater Camp Option is unmatched. With less than 1% of climbers opting for this route, it provides an exclusive and thrilling experience.

Kilimanjaro Routes Comparison: Pros, Cons, and Pricing Guide

Machame Route – From USD 2,540

  • Why Choose It: This highly recommended route boasts the highest success rate. It follows the “walk high, sleep low” principle, ideal for acclimatization.
  • Highlights: Diverse landscapes across five climate zones, different ascent and descent routes, and fully catered camping.

Lemosho Route – From USD 2,590

  • Why Choose It: Another top choice with a high summit success rate, allowing climbers to acclimatize well.
  • Highlights: Remote western approach, dramatic gorges, stunning views, fully-catered camping. Slight disadvantage if starting via the Shira route due to the higher altitude.

Marangu Route – From USD 2,350

  • Why Choose It: The shortest route to the summit, but with lower success rates due to limited acclimatization.
  • Drawbacks: Dormitory-style accommodation can be noisy, and the ascent and descent follow the same path.

Rongai Route – From USD 2,630

  • Why Choose It: A quieter, northern approach offering a wilderness feel.
  • Challenges: A tougher summit night and limited acclimatization opportunities.

Umbwe Route – From USD 2,590

  • Why Choose It: A steep and fast route with fewer crowds, perfect for experienced adventurers.
  • Challenges: Very low success rate due to rapid ascent, making it a tough option for beginners.

Choosing the Best Kilimanjaro Route: 6 Key Factors

When planning your Kilimanjaro climb, consider these six crucial aspects to determine the right route for you:

  1. Acclimatization: Routes that allow you to “walk high, sleep low” reduce the risk of altitude sickness and boost your chances of reaching the summit. The Machame and Lemosho routes excel in acclimatization.
  2. Difficulty of Summit Night: The final ascent is the toughest on the Rongai and Marangu routes. These trails reach the crater rim on the northern side of the mountain, leaving you more than two hours from Uhuru Peak. The Machame and Lemosho routes, on the other hand, reach the rim at Stella Point, just an hour from the summit, making them easier on summit day.
  3. Crowds on the Trail: Kilimanjaro can get crowded, especially on southern routes. If you prefer a quieter climb, the Rongai Route is your best option, as it attracts fewer climbers.
  4. Accommodation Options: If you’re not a fan of camping, the Marangu Route offers dormitory-style huts, though they can be basic and noisy. All other routes require camping.
  5. Safety: All Kilimanjaro routes, except the risky Arrow Glacier Route, are generally safe when climbed responsibly. We do not recommend or offer climbs on the Arrow Glacier Route due to the danger of falling rocks.
  6. Summit Success Rates: The 9-Day Northern Circuit Route, followed by the 8-Day Lemosho Route, boasts the highest success rates, largely due to their better acclimatization schedules and easier summit nights. The Machame Route over 7 days is also a strong option for summit success.

Group Climbs and Availability

We organize group climbs throughout the year, with a variety of routes scheduled weekly. To find out when we’re running your preferred route, check our schedule below.