KILIMANJARO
What makes Mt. Kilimanjaro special
The awe-inspiring height, unique ecological diversity, rich cultural heritage and snow-capped summit are some extraordinary characteristics of Mt. Kilimanjaro tours that hold a special place in the hearts of cultural and outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Moreover, the stunning landscapes, five fascinating climate zones and wide variety of flora and fauna found on this tallest mountain in Africa make it unique and a beacon for nature lovers.
There are seven established routes up the mountain depending on your mountaineering experience and hiking gear. Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or a first-timer, the Tanzania Kilimanjaro trek has a climbing route to match different levels of experience, making it a perfect mountain to trek for everyone.
KILIMANJARO ROUTES
Lemosho Route
- Begins on the western side of Mt. Kilimanjaro at Londorossi Gate, where a 4×4 vehicle brings hikers
- The most stunning and picturesque of all the trails up Mount Kilimanjaro
- Offers tourists many rewarding views
- Although the route is not technical, it is difficult and demands physical fitness.
Marangu Route
- The Marangu route, often dubbed the “Coca-Cola Route,” approaches Mt. Kilimanjaro from the southeast
- The oldest and most unique Mount Kilimanjaro tour route with constantly changing scenery.
- Offers hut accommodation with beverages
- Can be completed in just five days
Machame Route
- Offers many scenic views and famous landmarks like the famed Lava Tower, the lunar landscape and the Shira Plateau on the way
- Popularly known as the “Whiskey route,” Machame Route does not have sleeping huts
- Trekking from the route involves longer hiking days, steeper climbs and challenging hiking situations
- The trekking difficulty level from the Machame route is high
Rongai Route
- Easiest and the only route up Mount Kilimanjaro that approaches from the North or Kenyan side of the mountain
- The route offers trekkers a seven-day climb and an unspoiled wilderness experience
- Excellent success rates, steady climb and lovely surroundings make Rongai the perfect route for first-time trekkers
Northern Circuit
- The newest and longest Kilimanjaro route
- Begins in the West at the Londorossi Gate
- The route has the most acclimatization time and involves a visit to Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes
- Best for those who enjoy backpacking and quiet trekking for many days
Shira Route
- Begins from the west at Shira Gate, the Shira Route is best known for its breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes across the vast Shira Plateau
- Offers excellent views of the summit crater of Kilimanjaro, Kibo
- Best for climbers who want a scenic and thrilling trail and have experience in high-altitude trekking
Umbwe Route
- Less crowded path characterized by its wild and rugged terrain
- Best suited for experienced trekkers who want to complete a challenging trek
- Perfect for those who want to test their trekking skills and want a rewarding experience
KILIMANJARO TOURS
8 Days / 7 Nights Kilimanjaro Climb Machame Route
This is more difficult than the Marangu Route and suitable for experienced climbers. The approach is from the southwest, with fascinating rainforest and spectacular views over Mount Meru.
6 Days / 5 Nights Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route
This is the easiest and most popular route to the summit; this is classified as a moderate trek, rather than a climb. It is suitable for those adventure seekers who are not particularly experienced in the mountains.
WHEN TO VISIT
Since Mount Kilimanjaro does not experience the extremes of winter and summer, tourists plan Mount Kilimanjaro tours all year round. However, the best time for the Tanzania safari and Kilimanjaro climb is when the weather is hot and dry and there is a low possibility of precipitation (between January and March and from July to October).
Less risk of rain and snow during these months ensures a more comfortable trek, thus making these months most suitable for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing the mountain during the rainy season (from April to May), on the other hand, is not advisable only because heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and visibility low.
BEST WEATHER
The dry seasons are considered to be the best weather conditions to climb as there is a lower possibility of precipitation
WORST WEATHER
The rainy seasons are the worst times to climb the mountain as it can be very wet, and visibility may be low due to heavy clouds
BEST TIME
The best times to climb Mt Kilimanjaro are from the beginning of December through the beginning of March, and then from late June through the end of October
HIGH SEASON
Group climbs are scheduled to correspond with the dry season (December through March, late June through the end of October) as they are the busiest months
LOW SEASON
From the end of March to early June, the crowds are gone during this period and it is considered to be the low season