Kilimanjaro Routes

Which is the Best Route to Climb Kilimanjaro?

The question we get asked the most is, “Which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro?” The answer depends on what you’re looking for in your adventure. Here are our top routes, each with its own unique appeal:

Highest Success Rate & Overall Best Route

If reaching the summit is your main goal, then the Lemosho and Machame routes over 7-8 days are your best bet. These routes provide excellent acclimatization, and the summit night is less challenging. Both offer a great balance of success rate and overall experience, making them our top choices.

Most Scenic Route

The Lemosho route is by far the most scenic, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. From dramatic gorges to stunning views of West Kilimanjaro, this route provides unparalleled beauty throughout the climb.

Quietest Route

For those seeking a more peaceful experience away from the crowds, the Rongai route is your best choice. It’s the least trafficked route, providing a more solitary experience. However, be mindful that its success rate is lower compared to others.

Most Challenging Route

Looking for an adventure and a truly unique experience? The Crater Camp option offers a challenging route with less than 1% of climbers reaching it. This route provides a special wilderness experience, and climbers rave about the experience. It’s one for those with an adventurous spirit.

Summary of Kilimanjaro Routes:

1. Machame Route

• Highly recommended with the best success rate.
• Allows for better acclimatization through the “walk high, sleep low” method.
• Stunning scenery across five diverse climatic zones.
• Ascent and descent via different routes.
• Fully catered camping.

2. Lemosho Route

• High success rate with excellent acclimatization.
• A remote and scenic approach with dramatic views of West Kilimanjaro.
• Offers a higher start point than the Shira route, though this may be less ideal for acclimatization.
• Fully catered camping.

3. Marangu Route

• Shortest route with less time for acclimatization.
• Lower success rate due to the rapid ascent.
• Dormitory-style huts (can be noisy).
• Less scenic due to ascent and descent on the same route.

4. Rongai Route

• The only northern approach to Kilimanjaro.
• Offers a true wilderness experience, particularly in the early stages.
• Tough final summit night.
• No “walk high, sleep low” opportunities.
• Fully catered camping.

5. Umbwe Route

• Steep and short route with a very low success rate.
• Poor acclimatization due to rapid ascent.
• Quiet and remote during the first two days.
• Fully catered camping.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Route:

1. Acclimatization

   • The key to success is “walk high, sleep low.” The Machame and Lemosho routes allow for optimal acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

2. Difficulty of the Summit Night

   • The Rongai and Marangu routes require a longer and more strenuous summit night, while the Machame and Lemosho routes offer easier access to the summit via Stella Point, just an hour away from the top.

3. Crowds

   • If you want to avoid the crowds, the Rongai route is the least busy, offering a more peaceful climb, though it comes with a lower success rate.

4. Accommodation

   • If you dislike camping, the Marangu route offers basic hut accommodations. However, be prepared for a less serene environment due to noise.

5. Safety

   • All routes (except the Arrow Point route, which has a risk of falling rock) are considered safe when trekked sensibly. We do not offer climbs on the Arrow Point route due to its dangers.

6. Summit Success Rate

   • The 9-day Northern Circuit route and the Lemosho route (over 8 days) have the highest success rates due to better acclimatization and a less difficult summit night. The Machame route (7 days) also offers a great chance of success.

In Summary: When deciding which is the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb, consider factors like acclimatization, summit difficulty, crowds, and your preferred level of comfort. Machame and Lemosho are consistently the best choices for most climbers, while the Rongai and Umbwe routes offer quieter or more challenging experiences. Choose wisely based on your priorities to ensure a safe and successful summit!