Kilimanjaro routes there are 7 main which lead to the summit, Uhuru Peak, one of which starts on the Northern side of the mountain and the rest on the Southern side. After making the decision to climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to choose your route.

1. Northern Circuit Route
2. Lemosho Route
3. Shira Route
4. Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route)
5. Rongai Route
6. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route)
7. Umbwe Route

Highest success rate and overall  Kilimanjaro Route

If you want the highest chance of summiting the best Kilimanjaro routes  is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best Kilimanjaro climbing routes.

Most scenic Kilimanjaro route

The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions.

Quietest Kilimanjaro route

If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climbing routes. But be warned the success rate is lower.

Most challenging Kilimanjaro Route

If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience the crater camp option is the best Kilimanjaro routes for you- less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it.

What is the best Kilimanjaro routes?

If you want to hear a quick answer, we would say that the Lemosho route is the favorite Kilimanjaro routes of the Kili Footprints  Team and our clients. Lemosho offers a great acclimatization profile, scenic views, and the highest success rate according to our analytics for the last 10 years. However, this beautiful Kilimanjaro route has gained a lot of popularity in recent years and now it’s in the top 3 most busy routes. If you’re looking for a more private experience, consider the 7-day Rongai route itinerary. While not as scenic and lacking impressive fauna like Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, it’s more than 10 times less crowded than the popular routes.

Mount Kilimanjaro routes

According to statistics, 7 and 8-day Lemosho routes have the highest summit success rate at about 98%. The vast majority of climbers who embark on a hike via those Lemosho itineraries make it to the top. Wondering why it’s the case? The answer is simple: great acclimatization profile, many opportunities for “climb high, sleep low”, and enough time at the altitude to gradually adjust. However, most itineraries that last 7 days or longer on the mountain also have great summit success rates.

Marangu Route: The Coca-Cola Kilimanjaro Route

Known colloquially as the “Coca-Cola Route” or “Tourist Route,” Marangu is perhaps the most popular Kilimanjaro route. Renowned for its relatively gentle slopes and hut accommodations, it provides a comfortable yet captivating journey. The trek takes around 5 to 6 days, leading climbers through lush rainforests before emerging onto the alpine desert and finally reaching the icy summit.

Machame Route: The Whiskey Adventure

For those seeking a more challenging ascent and a diverse range of scenery, the Machame Route, fondly dubbed the “Whiskey Route,” is an excellent choice. This trail winds through rainforests, heath, and moorland, offering breathtaking views along the way. The ascent is steeper than Marangu, and climbers typically take 6 to 7 days to conquer this demanding path.

Lemosho Route: Remote Wilderness Kilimanjaro Route

If solitude and pristine landscapes are your preference, the Lemosho Route beckons is best kilimanjaro climbing routes. A relatively new trail, Lemosho is lauded for its low foot traffic and high success rate in summiting. It takes approximately 7 to 8 days, guiding adventurers through untouched wilderness, from lush rainforests to expansive plateaus, providing an unforgettable experience.

Rongai Route: Northern Tranquility

Approaching Kilimanjaro from the north, the Rongai Route offers a less-traveled alternative. Known for its gradual ascent and captivating vistas, this trail is considered one of the easier options. The journey lasts around 6 to 7 days, providing a peaceful and scenic expedition.

Northern Circuit Route: The Extended Adventure

For those with a bit more time on their hands, the Northern Circuit Route offers a comprehensive journey around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. Spanning approximately 9 days, this route is celebrated for its high success rate, diverse landscapes, and optimal acclimatization opportunities.

Umbwe Route: The Steep Challenge Kilimanjaro Route

Reserved for the daring and experienced, the Umbwe Route is the steepest and most direct ascent to Kilimanjaro’s summit. A challenging climb, it demands resilience and prior high-altitude experience. This route is typically completed in 6 to 7 days, offering a swift but demanding path to the top.

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