Which routes should you take to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa, located in Tanzania. There are several routes to reach its summit, each offering a unique experience. Here is an overview of the different routes!

The Marangu Route

This route is the most popular and the most frequented. It is called the “Coca-Cola route” because of the many huts along the way that offer soft drinks. It is also the only route that offers accommodation in huts, making it more comfortable for hikers who do not wish to camp.

The Machame Route

This route is one of the most beautiful and picturesque. It offers breathtaking views of Mount Meru and crosses a variety of landscapes, including forests, alpine plateaus, and glaciers. It is also a popular route for camping enthusiasts.

The Lemosho Route

This route is similar to the Machame route in terms of scenery and difficulty, but it is less frequented, offering a more isolated experience. It also offers better chances of spotting local wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and primates.

The Rongai Route

Rongai is less frequented than the Marangu route, but it is also less picturesque than the Machame and Lemosho routes. It mainly crosses arid areas and is considered the easiest route to reach the summit.

The Umbwe Route

This route is the shortest and the most difficult of the Kilimanjaro routes. We recommend it only to experienced hikers. It passes through dense forest before reaching steep cliffs, glaciers, and rocky peaks.

Each route has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of route depends on each person's preference and hiking level. It is important to consider the duration, difficulty, altitude, and beauty of the landscapes when choosing which route to take.

Discover our travel ideas to explore Tanzania and climb Kilimanjaro:

• Machame Route
• 11 days of safari in Southern Tanzania
• 7 days of ascent on the Machame route to Mount Kilimanjaro

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