
The seven different Kilimanjaro routes
There are seven routes leading up Kilimanjaro. Each has its own pros and cons, like how varied the scenery is, or how well it lets you acclimatise. We discuss them all here to help you decide which route is the right one for you.
Kilimanjaro's climbing routes

The seven ascent routes
Lemosho route – The most beautiful Kilimanjaro route, and very popular. It goes up the western slope. Machame route – The most popular Kilimanjaro route. It goes up the southern slope. Marangu route – The Marangu is the only route to offer hut accommodation. It ascends the eastern slope. Rongai route – The Rongai is the only route that approaches the summit from the north. Shira route – The Shira has the highest starting elevation. It starts on the western slope. Northern Circuit – The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest Kilimanjaro route. It starts on the west, but then wraps around the north of the mountain. Umbwe route – The Umbwe is the shortest, steepest and hardest Kilimanjaro route. It goes up the southern slope.
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Which is the best Kilimanjaro route?

Machame route (the seven-day itinerary) Lemosho route (the eight-day itinerary) Northern Circuit route (a nine-day climb)

Which is the easiest Kilimanjaro route?


Choosing a Kilimanjaro route
Deciding on a route up Kilimanjaro is definitely a personal choice and should be done so with care.
9 climbing route considerations

1. What do you want to get out of your climb?
Photography? Staying away from the crowds? Seeing varied terrains? Spotting animals? Ensuring you get to the summit above all else? Something else?

2. Are you looking for a good acclimatisation profile?

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3. Are you looking for scenery?

4. Do you have trekking experience?

5. How long have you got for your climb?

6. How much money can you spend on the climb?

In an ideal world, speed and cost should not be your primary considerations when choosing your route for Kilimanjaro.
7. What kind of accommodation do you want?


8. What time of year are you available to go?


9. Do you want to avoid the crowds?


Lemosho route

This was my first proper trek so I wanted to choose a route with a really good acclimatisation profile, but also one with a variety of terrain and scenery. I'm glad I opted for the Lemosho!

Machame route


Marangu route


Rongai route



Shira route


Northern Circuit

Roughly 90% of Northern Circuit climbers make it to the summit!

Umbwe route


Some direct route comparisons
At first I was a little overwhelmed by all the options! But once I realised that I wanted the best acclimatisation profile possible, it made the choice a lot easier.