Best route to hike Kilimanjaro

Safari summary

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging and rewarding endeavor. The best route for you will depend on your preferences, fitness level, and the experience you're seeking. Kilimanjaro offers several routes, each with its own characteristics. Choosing the best route depends on your physical fitness, prior high-altitude experience, time available for the climb, and personal preferences. Keep in mind that proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful summit.

It's recommended to take your time and choose a longer route if possible, as this will increase your chances of reaching the summit safely. The 7-day Machame route, which costs from $1500 to $2700, is the best choice to hike Mount Kilimanjaro.

Here's an overview of some popular routes:

1. Machame Route:
Offers stunning scenery and varied landscapes.
Considered more challenging but has a higher success rate due to better acclimatization.
Camping throughout the trek.
Usually a 6-7-day trek helps with acclimatization.

2. Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route):
Known as the easiest route.
Accommodations are in huts, which can be more comfortable.
Less scenic and tends to be more crowded.
Typically a 5-day trek, which could affect acclimatization.

3. Lemosho Route:
Offers a longer and more gradual ascent, increasing acclimatization chances.
Scenic and less crowded.
Camping throughout the trek.
Typically a 6-9-day trek, allowing for better altitude adaptation.

4. Rongai Route:
Approaches the mountain from the north, providing a unique perspective.
Generally less crowded.
Camping throughout the trek.
Usually a 6-7-day trek helps with acclimatization.

5. Northern Circuit Route:
The longest route offers optimal acclimatization due to the gradual ascent.
Offers stunning panoramic views and a less crowded experience.
Camping throughout the trek.
Typically a 9-day trek or more, making it one of the best for acclimatization.

6. Umbwe Route:
The steepest and most challenging route
Offers less time for acclimatization, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Camping throughout the trek.
Usually a 6-7 day trek.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	Hiking | trekking
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Meals

What’s not included?

• Tips and gratuities
• Visas