Kilimanjaro

Choose Your Kilimanjaro Route

Compare routes by scenery, difficulty, acclimatization profiles, and typical durations. Each card links to a detailed page. Not sure? Start with Lemosho or Machame for a balanced climb.

Difficulty: Easy → Challenging Best acclimatization: Northern Circuit Best seasons: Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct
Most Recommended Lemosho forest to Shira plateau

Lemosho

7–8 days

Scenic west-side approach with great acclimatization and lower crowds early on.

Shira Plateau Good acclimatization
Popular Machame route Barranco wall

Machame

6–7 days

Dramatic scenery via the Southern Circuit with the iconic Barranco Wall.

Southern Circuit Great views
Best Acclimatization Northern Circuit high desert ridge

Northern Circuit

8–9 days

Longest route circling the north flanks; highest summit success due to gradual ascent.

360° panoramas Gentle profile
Scenic Odyssey Grand Traverse northern slopes

Grand Traverse (Northern)

8–9 days

Remote feel across the mountain’s quiet northern expanse with wide vistas.

Fewer crowds Broad traverses
Dry Side Rongai route near Mawenzi

Rongai via Mawenzi Tarn

6–7 days

Northern approach with drier weather and unique views of Mawenzi’s spires.

Drier climate Gentle gradients
Huts Marangu huts and trail

Marangu (Coca-Cola)

5–6 days

Only route with hut accommodation; faster profile requires careful pacing.

Hut overnights Shorter duration
Steepest Umbwe steep forest path

Umbwe

5–6 days

Shortest, steepest ascent; best for experienced trekkers with prior altitude exposure.

Very direct Demanding
High Start Shira plateau start

Shira (Shira Gate)

6–7 days

Begins high on the Shira Plateau; similar to Lemosho after the first day.

High trailhead Quick plateau access
Unique Cyclists on Kilema route

Kilema Bike Route

5–6 days

Designated MTB route on Kilimanjaro’s slopes; special permits and support required.

MTB ascent Special logistics
Technical Western Breach ascent

Lemosho via Western Breach

7–9 days

Steep, exposed Western Breach to Crater Camp; advanced parties only.

Objective hazards Crater Camp option
Technical Lava Tower near Western Breach

Machame via Western Breach

7–8 days

Southern approach combined with the Breach for a challenging finish.

Strenuous Crater access

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