The Ultimate Guide to Climbing Kilimanjaro: Choosing the Best Route for Your Adventure

One of the most popular activities in Tanzania is climbing Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three distinct volcanic cones and is located in the northern part of Tanzania. It is also one of the Seven Summits, making it a bucket list item for many adventurous travelers.

There are several routes to choose from when climbing Kilimanjaro, each with its own unique features, scenery, and level of difficulty. Here are five of the best routes to consider:

Machame Route

The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular and scenic routes up Kilimanjaro. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including lush rainforest, moorlands, and stunning views of the Shira Plateau. It is also one of the longer routes, taking about 7-8 days to complete, which allows for better acclimatization and increases the chances of reaching the summit.

Lemosho Route

The  Lemosho Route is another popular route that is known for its beautiful scenery and lower traffic compared to other routes. It starts on the western side of the mountain and gradually approaches the summit from the south. It is a longer route, typically taking 8-9 days, but allows for better acclimatization and increased chances of reaching the summit.

Rongai Route

The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, starting close to the Kenyan border. It is known for its quiet and remote trails and offers a unique perspective of the mountain. It is a shorter route, typically taking 6-7 days, but has a lower success rate due to less acclimatization time.

Marangu Route

The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the oldest and most popular route up Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers hut accommodation, making it a more comfortable option for those who prefer not to camp. However, it is also the shortest and steepest route, which can make it more challenging for some climbers.

Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route up Kilimanjaro, taking about 9-10 days to complete. It is known for its beautiful and remote trails and offers the most extended acclimatization time, increasing the chances of reaching the summit. It is also the least traveled route, providing a quieter and more peaceful experience.

There is no one "best" route to climb Kilimanjaro, as each route has its own unique features and challenges. The route you choose will depend on your fitness level, experience, and preferences. However, any route you choose will offer breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.