Kilimanjaro Routes for Trekkers
Thousands of visitors arrive in Tanzania every year with the objective of trekking or climbing on Mount Kilimanjaro from all parts of the world. The unique experience of climbing the mountain and exploring the areas around is a major attraction for them. These people need to know about the Kilimanjaro routes that are officially approved and used by trained and experienced guides showing the way for the explorer. Knowing the right route can help to make the journey safer and save the time and effort of the trekkers.
The Seven Official Kilimanjaro Routes
As many as seven official routes are used to ascend and descend the Mount Kilimanjaro. These are:
- Lemosho Route
- Machame Route
- Marangu Route
- Mweka Route
- Rongai Route
- Shira Route
- Umbwe Route
Ascending and descending Kilimanjaro usually takes time in the range of 6 to 8 days. Many travelers prefer the Western-Breach route to avoid the 6 hour-long midnight ascending to the mountain summit. Some also prefer the relatively easier Marangu route though it remains busy most of the time. Accommodations are provided in shared huts for visitors on this route.
Challenges on Kilimanjaro Routes
For trekkers and hikers, the Kilimanjaro routes pose several challenges. Climbing the height of 3940 feet from the base to the summit of world’s tallest free-standing mountain takes the climber through many climatic variations with temperature varying from 90 degrees to 10 degrees Fahrenheit’s. Similarly, for trekkers, the vast-ranging plateau with an environment varying from rainforests through tundra types poses a big challenge for adjustments
