The complete guide to the best Kilimanjaro routes
Everything you need to know about choosing the perfect route for your Kilimanjaro adventure!
There are 8 main routes leading up the highest mountain in Africa – Kilimanjaro. Each Kilimanjaro route boasts its own set of benefits, whether it’s smoother acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, hut accommodations, or a quieter trekking experience. In this guide, we will help you choose the ideal route for your trip.
Mount Kilimanjaro routes
Eight main Kilimanjaro routes climb to the summit of the “roof of Africa”. Those are: Lemosho (Shira route), Machame, Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Umbwe, Kilema, and Western Breach
Moreover, most routes offer several itinerary options. For instance, the Lemosho route has 6, 7, and 8-day versions, each providing a slightly different acclimatization experience. Although choosing between a shorter or longer itinerary might seem like a small detail, longer trips generally lead to much higher success rates thanks to improved acclimatization. If you’re planning a Kilimanjaro climb and unsure which route and itinerary suit you best, we’re here to walk you through the unique pros and cons of each option.
What are the best Kilimanjaro routes?
This is a tricky question because each route has its own advantages and drawbacks. Below, we’ll tackle some of the most frequently asked questions.
What is the best route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
If you’re looking for a quick recommendation, we would say the Lemosho route is the top choice among the Velam Tours team and our clients. Lemosho offers an excellent acclimatization profile, stunning landscapes, and, based on our data from the past decade, the highest success rates. However, due to its growing popularity, Lemosho is now among the three busiest routes on the mountain. If you prefer a more private trekking experience, the 7-day Rongai route might be a better fit. Though it’s less scenic and doesn’t feature impressive flora like Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, it is more than ten times less crowded compared to the busier trails.
What is the easiest route to climb Kilimanjaro?
The main difficulty on Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t steep trails or the distance covered each day — it’s the altitude. Therefore, the routes that offer the best acclimatization profiles can be considered the “easiest.” In this regard, the 7-8 day Lemosho itineraries, the 7-day Rongai route, followed closely by the 7-day Machame and the Northern Circuit, are among the best options.
The 7-day Lemosho route stands out as the most accessible path up Kilimanjaro for several reasons. Starting at around 3,500 meters, it removes the need to rapidly ascend to that altitude. The early days feature shorter hikes, allowing your body to adjust more easily without overexertion. All overnight camps are situated at 3,500 meters or higher, further promoting acclimatization. Moreover, the summit push from Barafu Camp is shorter compared to other routes, cutting down on hiking time by about an hour.
The Northern Circuit also offers excellent acclimatization, thanks to its longer duration on the mountain, but it’s better suited for those comfortable with extended daily hikes. For beginners, Lemosho, Rongai, and Machame are often easier and offer higher chances of successfully reaching the summit. If you feel you might benefit from a slower pace, you can add an extra acclimatization day at one of the camps to your chosen itinerary.
Which Kilimanjaro route has the highest summit success rate?
Based on Velam Tours’ statistics, the 7 and 8-day Lemosho itineraries boast the highest summit success rates — reaching about 98%. The vast majority of climbers following these routes make it to Uhuru Peak. Why? The reasons are clear: excellent acclimatization opportunities, the ability to “climb high, sleep low,” and plenty of time to adjust to the altitude.
It’s important to note: summit success rates vary greatly depending on the operator. Budget companies might lack experienced guides and proper equipment, significantly lowering your chances of a safe and successful climb — even if they advertise 95%+ success rates, the reality is often much lower.
By contrast, a trusted operator like Velam Tours is dedicated to providing top-quality service, ensuring both your safety and your success. Thanks to our commitment to excellence, we consistently achieve summit success rates of up to 98% on popular routes like Lemosho 7 and 8.
Which Kilimanjaro route has the fewest crowds?
If you’re seeking solitude on the mountain, the Rongai route and the Northern Circuit are your best bets. Both are well-known for their quiet trails. Additionally, the early stages of the Umbwe route offer peaceful landscapes with hardly any other hikers around.
A helpful tip: try to avoid the peak climbing seasons — mainly July through September and January through February. The best times to climb with fewer crowds are right before or after these busy periods — such as early March, early June, or late October — when the weather remains favorable but the trails are much less crowded.
Expert Insight
For an even quieter experience, plan to begin your trek on a Wednesday or Thursday. According to Velam Tours’ analytics over the past three years, starting midweek means encountering about half the number of climbers compared to starting on other days!
What is the safest Kilimanjaro route?
Because altitude-related illnesses are the primary risk on Kilimanjaro, routes that offer excellent acclimatization profiles are generally considered the safest.
That said, the most critical factor is the expertise of your guides and the quality of your expedition’s organization. At Velam Tours, all our guides are highly experienced, certified as Wilderness First Responders, and equipped with extensive medical kits and oxygen tanks. In fact, we carry more oxygen systems than any other operator on the mountain. Our guides perform thorough health checks twice daily, closely monitoring for any signs of altitude sickness and responding immediately if symptoms arise. Should a serious issue occur, they are fully trained to provide rapid first aid and manage an efficient evacuation.
The Western Breach route is an exception — it carries significant risks due to the danger of rockfalls, which have tragically caused fatalities in the past. As recently as October 2023, the Velam Tours team discovered the body of a climber who had attempted the Western Breach independently or with another operator. Because of the dangers involved, we strongly advise most trekkers to avoid this route.
Which Kilimanjaro routes should beginners avoid?
Budget operators often recommend two itineraries: the 5-day Marangu route and the 6-day Machame route. These shorter itineraries require fewer crew members, supplies, and lower park fees, allowing companies to offer cheaper packages — which can be tempting.
However, these shortened versions pose major risks for proper acclimatization. Both itineraries skip an important mid-climb acclimatization day, forcing climbers to ascend quickly without enough time to adjust to the increasing altitude. This significantly increases the chances of altitude sickness and summit failure. To understand more about the risks, check out our short video below
7 Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Curious about how crowded Kilimanjaro’s trails get? Velam Tours’ research has gathered detailed data on hiker traffic across the mountain’s popular routes from January to September 2024. The results are estimated to be over 98% accurate. Below, we share the numbers and insights for each route, including their variations:
Lemosho Route (15,675 hikers):
Known for its stunning scenery and excellent acclimatization profile, the Lemosho route has become increasingly popular over the years. The 6 and 7-day Lemosho variations, sometimes called the Shira route, start with a high-altitude drop-off — an off-road vehicle transports hikers to 3,407 m (11,177 ft), allowing climbers to immediately begin acclimatizing with more nights spent higher on the mountain.Machame Route (16,111 hikers):
Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is the most popular trail on Kilimanjaro. It delivers dramatic landscapes and a solid acclimatization journey. Starting from Machame Gate on the southern side of the mountain, this trail crosses multiple climate zones, from tropical forest to Arctic desert. It’s also conveniently located just 20 minutes from Velam Tours’ climbing base at Aishi Machame Hotel.Marangu Route (14,794 hikers):
Often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is unique as the only Kilimanjaro trail with hut accommodations. Hikers stay in dormitory-style huts rather than tents. Beginning at Marangu Gate on the southeastern side of the mountain, the route leads to the summit and returns along the same path.Rongai Route (1,397 hikers):
The only trail starting from Kilimanjaro’s northern slope, Rongai offers a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience — ideal during the rainy seasons. The trail passes by Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones, and provides a unique perspective. The descent via the Marangu route allows climbers to enjoy views from both sides of the mountain. It’s also a great choice for those wanting to avoid the steep Barranco Wall.Northern Circuit Route:
The longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit allows trekkers to experience the mountain from all angles. Starting from the same trailhead as the Lemosho route, it sees only about 5% of Lemosho’s traffic, making it perfect for those seeking solitude, remote wilderness, and a gradual, gentle climb.Umbwe Route (66 hikers):
One of the steepest and least trafficked routes at the start, Umbwe offers a challenging climb, especially during the first two days. The traditional 6-day itinerary is tailored for experienced trekkers, while the newly designed 7-day version is manageable for fit beginners. After the tough beginning, the route becomes less demanding.Kilema Route:
Kilema is the only route on Kilimanjaro specifically for mountain biking. Running alongside the Marangu route and merging with it at Horombo Huts Camp, it’s little known but offers an exciting adventure for biking enthusiasts. Velam Tours is proud to organize specialized biking expeditions for those eager to summit Kilimanjaro on two wheels.Western Breach (few hundred hikers):
This challenging and less-frequented path offers a direct shortcut to the summit. However, it carries a real risk of rockfalls, which makes it a dangerous option and one that only a handful of experienced operators know how to safely manage.
While Kilimanjaro has eight distinct routes to the summit, many trails overlap. For example, the Rongai and Northern Circuit trails meet at School Hut Camp, while Lemosho, Machame, and Umbwe routes all converge at Barranco Camp before tackling the iconic Barranco Wall together en route to the summit.
How to Choose the Perfect Route for Your Kilimanjaro Adventure
Start by imagining what you want your Kilimanjaro experience to be like. Are you a photographer chasing the most breathtaking landscapes? A seasoned trekker craving a fresh challenge? Or maybe a parent climbing with teenage kids, looking for a smooth route with excellent acclimatization?
Whatever your goals, Velam Tours is here to help! Our team of experts has prepared 8 key questions to guide you toward the ideal route. As you go through them, jot down notes or cross off any routes that don’t align with what you’re looking for.
By the end, you’ll likely have narrowed it down to one or two routes that perfectly match your dream Kilimanjaro expedition. Let’s get started!
1. Are you aiming for the best acclimatization and highest summit success rate?
If smooth acclimatization and reaching the summit are your top priorities, the 7 and 8-day Lemosho itineraries should be at the top of your list. As mentioned earlier, most 7-day routes offer strong acclimatization profiles and excellent success rates.
Top routes for acclimatization and summit success:
Lemosho Route (7–8 days)
Rongai Route (7 days)
Machame Route (7 days)
2. Do you prefer to sleep in tents or huts?
Dreaming of sleeping under the stars in a cozy tent? Or would you rather have the shelter and comfort of a hut? If huts are non-negotiable for you, the Marangu route is the only option, offering dormitory-style hut accommodations.
That said, sleeping in a tent is much more comfortable than you might expect. Velam Tours uses custom-designed tents made for warmth, comfort, and weather protection, ensuring a great night’s rest on the mountain. Many of our clients rave about the experience of snuggling into a four-season sleeping bag on a thick mattress.
Tents also bring you closer to nature, while huts can sometimes feel a bit crowded. At Velam Tours camps, you’ll also enjoy spacious dining tents and optional private portable toilet and shower tents if you choose the extra service.
Routes offering hut accommodations:
Marangu Route (6 days)
Routes offering comfortable tent accommodations:
All routes except Marangu
3. Planning to climb during the rainy season?
If your Kilimanjaro adventure is set during the rainy months, Rongai and Marangu routes are your best bets. The northern side of Kilimanjaro, where Rongai begins, receives significantly less rainfall, while Marangu’s huts offer added comfort during wet weather. Gear up properly and you’ll be ready for an incredible journey!
Best routes for the rainy season:
Marangu Route (6 days)
Rongai Route (7 days)
4. Do you want the most breathtaking views Kilimanjaro has to offer?
If you’re after the most stunning scenery, consider the Lemosho (Shira route), Machame, or Umbwe routes. These southern and western trails take you through all of Kilimanjaro’s unique climate zones, from tropical rainforests to glaciers. They also showcase rare plants like the Kilimanjaro Giant Groundsels, thanks to the higher rainfall on the southern slopes, which supports greater biodiversity.
In comparison, northern trails like Rongai and the Northern Circuit offer more subtle scenery with less dramatic plant life.
Most scenic Kilimanjaro routes:
Lemosho Route
Machame Route
Umbwe Route
5. Do you have prior trekking experience or acclimatization?
Mount Kilimanjaro welcomes both seasoned trekkers and first-time adventurers. If you have experience trekking at high altitudes, you might consider faster-paced, shorter itineraries like the Machame 6-day or Umbwe 6-day routes. These options require a stronger fitness level and a solid acclimatization plan but reward you with varied landscapes and a more intense challenge.
Recommended routes for beginners:
Lemosho Route (7–8 days)
Machame Route (7 days)
Rongai Route (7 days)
Northern Circuit Route (8 days)
Recommended routes for experienced trekkers or those with prior acclimatization:
Lemosho Route (6 days)
Machame Route (6 days)
Marangu Route (5–6 days)
Umbwe Route (6 days)
Rongai Route (6 days)
6. How much time and budget do you have for your trip?
If your schedule or budget is tight, shorter routes like the Machame 6-day or Marangu 5-day itineraries might seem attractive. However, keep in mind that shorter climbs are much tougher and come with a lower summit success rate, especially for those without high-altitude trekking experience. Whenever possible, we strongly encourage first-time climbers to choose 7-day itineraries to increase their chances of a successful summit.
For those looking to make their Kilimanjaro experience even more special, Velam Tours offers premium climbs. Our luxury packages include top-tier hotels before and after your expedition, spacious walk-in tents, gourmet meals, bottled water, high-end camping gear, portable toilets, satellite communication, and an expanded support team — all designed to give you the highest level of comfort and safety on the mountain.
Reach out to our Kilimanjaro specialists for more details!
If you’re fortunate enough to have extra time for your vacation, consider combining your Kilimanjaro adventure with a thrilling wildlife safari. Another fantastic option is to relax for a few days on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar or discover one of the other stunning islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. It’s the perfect way to experience the full magic and diversity that Tanzania has to offer!
7. Are you interested in unique experiences like camping inside the crater?
If you’re looking to make your Kilimanjaro adventure truly unforgettable, consider adding crater camping to your climb! Velam Tours offers specially designed 9–10 day itineraries that include the rare chance to camp inside the crater of Kibo, the highest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic peaks.
Picture spending a night at 5,750 meters in an ancient volcanic crater, under a sky filled with the brilliant Milky Way — an experience enjoyed by fewer than a hundred climbers each year out of more than 40,000.
Crater camping itineraries generally require 9–10 days to allow for proper acclimatization and safety. Our Kilimanjaro experts are ready to help you plan the perfect expedition customized to your dreams.
Routes where crater camping is possible:
All routes except Marangu
8. Are you excited by extreme sports like paragliding, technical climbing, or mountain biking?
Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t just a destination for trekkers — it also calls to adventure and extreme sports enthusiasts! If mountain biking is your passion, Velam Tours offers a specialized expedition along the Kilema Route — the only mountain bike trail on the world’s highest freestanding mountain.
If you dream of soaring over the “Roof of Africa” with a paraglider, climbing technical peaks like Mawenzi, or organizing a large-scale sports event on the mountain, we can make it happen. Velam Tours has proudly handled major projects for organizations like Red Bull, Wings of Kilimanjaro, and Nimsdai, among many others. In these cases, the route and logistics are customized specifically for each event.
Reach out to us today — our team would love to help you design a tailor-made Kilimanjaro adventure packed with unforgettable moments!
