Kilimanjaro Routes: Which of the 7 Is the Best?

Kilimanjaro’s 7 Routes:

Have you ever dreamed of standing on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa? Picking the right Kilimanjaro route is key to making that dream come true! 

Kilimanjaro isn’t just one path up a mountain; there are seven Kilimanjaro routes, each with its own unique sights and challenges. Understanding these options will help you choose the best path for your adventure.

When planning your Kilimanjaro route, it’s important to consider how long you’ll be hiking. Some routes are shorter but steeper, while others take more days but give you more time to get used to the high altitude. This can hugely impact your comfort and your chances of reaching the summit.

 

From my 20+ years of hiking experience and from having climbed Kili, I think the best route is the one that gives you the highest chance of a successful Kilimanjaro summit, while being enjoyable at the same time. You don’t want to be suffering from altitude sickness and feeling awful for most of your hike. 

Our guide aims to simplify these choices and highlight the longer routes, often better for acclimatization. Let’s get ready to find out which of the 7 Kilimanjaro routes is your best choice to reach the highest mountain in Africa!

1. Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route):

Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, this is the oldest and most established of all the Kilimanjaro routes. It’s also the only route offering hut accommodation. It’s considered the easiest in terms of gradient, but not necessarily the best for acclimatization due to its shorter length at 82 km or 50 miles long. It’s also the only route that allows you to descend the same way you ascend.

2. Machame Route (Whiskey Route):

Often called the “Whiskey” route, this path is more challenging than Marangu. It’s known for its scenic beauty, passing through five different climatic zones. It takes 6-7 days, which is better for acclimatization. It’s 62 km or 37 miles but steeper and more challenging than Marangu.

3. Umbwe Route:

The most challenging and direct route to the summit at 53 km or 32 miles. It’s steep and physically demanding, recommended for experienced trekkers. It takes about 6 days. I’d only recommend this route if you have experience trekking at altitude and believe that you can acclimatize quickly. 

4. Rongai Route:

This is the only Kilimanjaro route that approaches from the north, near the Kenyan border. It’s less crowded and offers a different perspective. It takes 6-7 days and is considered one of the easier routes, with more gradual slopes than some of the other Kilimanjaro routes. It’s 72 km or 45 miles long and converges with Marangu on the summit approach.

5. Shira Route:

The Shira route follows the same route as Lemosho, but starts at a higher elevation on the Shira Plateau. It offers stunning panoramic views. The higher starting point,  requires climbers to be well-acclimatized to altitude beforehand. This could be a good option if you’ve already done Mount Meru to acclimizate beforehand. It’s 56 km or 33 miles.

6. Lemosho Route:

A longer and more remote route, Lemosho is famed for its beauty, high summit success rate, and good acclimatization profile. It starts from the western side of Kilimanjaro. It spans 70 km or 42 miles and takes 8 days to complete. You can read more about the Lemosho Route in detail. 

7. Northern Circuit:

The newest and longest of all the Kilimanjaro routes at 96 km or 60 miles, taking 8-9 days. The Northern Circuit offers excellent acclimatization and spectacular views, circling nearly the entire mountain. It’s a unique experience if you have more time and has a higher chance of success due to the longer length. 

Preparing for Your Kilimanjaro Adventure

Preparing adequately for your Kilimanjaro climb is crucial to enjoy and succeed in this incredible adventure. Here are some tips to help you choose the right route and pack effectively:

1. Selecting the Right Kilimanjaro Route:

Consider your previous hiking experience, fitness level, and comfort with high altitudes. The longer Kilimanjaro routes are ideal for better acclimatization (see how to prepare for high altitude) but require a good level of fitness and commitment. I’d highly recommend a longer route unless you’re used to hiking at altitude.

The shorter Kilimanajro routes may appeal if time is a constraint, though they often have lower success rates due to less acclimatization time. And lets face it, you’ll probably only climb Kilimanjaro once in your life, so you want to give yourself the best chance possible of success. 

2. What to Pack: 

Check our our Kilimanjaro Packing List (+ Free Printable Gear List) 

Every climber’s needs will vary slightly, so tailor your packing list based on the specific route and expected conditions. Remember, the right preparation will make your climb safer, more comfortable, and significantly more enjoyable, no matter which Kilimanjaro route you choose.

3. Get Your Free Guide to Hiking Kilimanjaro which includes everything you need to know.

Conclusion

Now you know each of the 7 Kilimanjaro routes can drastically impact your overall experience and success on this majestic mountain.

As you set out for one of the grandest adventures in the world, check out our Kilimanjaro Tour. We’ll help make your summit dreams a reality, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling climb.