Which route is best to climb Kilimanjaro? A comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect path to the roof of africa

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a life-changing adventure, and choosing the right route is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your journey. With several routes to the summit, each offering unique experiences, challenges, and scenery, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for you. That’s where Trust Tours and Safari Company, Tanzania’s leading local tour operator, comes in. With years of experience, expert guides, and a commitment to providing unforgettable adventures, we’re here to help you choose the perfect route for your Kilimanjaro climb.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key features of each route, highlight their pros and cons, and explain why Trust Tours and Safari Company is your best partner for this incredible journey. Whether you’re a first-time climber or an experienced adventurer, we’ll ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision and embark on the climb of a lifetime.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Route

1. Duration: Longer routes (7-9 days) offer better acclimatization and higher success rates, while shorter routes (5-6 days) are more budget-friendly but more challenging.
2. Scenery: Each route offers unique landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glaciers. Choose a route that matches your preferences for natural beauty.
3. Crowds: Some routes, like Marangu and Machame, are more popular and can be crowded during peak seasons. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider less-traveled routes like Lemosho or Northern Circuit.
4. Difficulty: Routes vary in difficulty, with some featuring steeper ascents and more challenging terrain. Your fitness level and experience should guide your choice.
5. Budget: Longer routes and less crowded options tend to be more expensive, but they often provide a better overall experience and higher chances of summiting.

Overview of Kilimanjaro Routes

1. Marangu Route (The “Coca-Cola” Route)
   • Duration: 5-6 days
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Scenery: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert
   • Pros: The only route with hut accommodations, making it more comfortable for some climbers. It’s also the shortest and most affordable route.
   • Cons: Lower success rates due to shorter acclimatization time. It’s also the busiest route, which can detract from the wilderness experience.
   Why Choose Marangu? If you’re looking for a shorter, budget-friendly climb and don’t mind sharing the trail with more climbers, the Marangu Route might be for you. However, Trust Tours and Safari Company recommends longer routes for better acclimatization and higher success rates.

2. Machame Route (The “Whiskey” Route)
   • Duration: 6-7 days
   • Difficulty: Challenging
   • Scenery: Rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
   • Pros: Stunning scenery, excellent acclimatization profile, and high success rates. It’s one of the most popular routes for good reason.
   • Cons: Can be crowded during peak seasons. The trail is steeper and more physically demanding than Marangu.
   Why Choose Machame? If you’re looking for a balance of beauty, challenge, and success, the Machame Route is an excellent choice. Trust Tours and Safari Company offers expertly guided Machame climbs with a focus on safety and enjoyment.

3. Lemosho Route
   • Duration: 7-8 days
   • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
   • Scenery: Rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
   • Pros: Less crowded, stunning scenery, excellent acclimatization, and high success rates. It’s considered one of the most scenic routes on Kilimanjaro.
   • Cons: Longer duration makes it more expensive. The initial drive to the trailhead is longer.
   Why Choose Lemosho? If you’re seeking a more remote and scenic experience with fewer crowds, the Lemosho Route is ideal. Trust Tours and Safari Company highly recommends this route for its beauty and high success rates.

4. Rongai Route
   • Duration: 6-7 days
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Scenery: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
   • Pros: Less crowded, gentle slopes, and a unique approach from the north. It’s a great option for those looking for a quieter climb.
   • Cons: Less scenic compared to Lemosho and Machame. The descent is via the Marangu Route, which can be crowded.
   Why Choose Rongai? If you prefer a quieter, less strenuous climb and don’t mind sacrificing some scenery, the Rongai Route is a good option. Trust Tours and Safari Company can tailor this route to meet your needs.

5. Northern Circuit Route
   • Duration: 8-9 days
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Scenery: Rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
   • Pros: The longest route with the best acclimatization profile and the highest success rates. It’s also the least crowded, offering a true wilderness experience.
   • Cons: Longer duration makes it more expensive.
   Why Choose Northern Circuit? If you want the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience with the highest chance of success and minimal crowds, the Northern Circuit is the best choice. Trust Tours and Safari Company specializes in this route, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure.

6. Umbwe Route
   • Duration: 5-6 days
   • Difficulty: Very Challenging
   • Scenery: Rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
   • Pros: Shortest and most direct route to the summit. It’s ideal for experienced climbers seeking a challenge.
   • Cons: Very steep and demanding, with lower success rates. Not recommended for beginners.
   Why Choose Umbwe? If you’re an experienced climber looking for a tough, fast-paced adventure, the Umbwe Route might be for you. Trust Tours and Safari Company offers this route for seasoned adventurers only.

Which Route is Best for You?

The best route for your Kilimanjaro climb depends on your fitness level, experience, budget, and preferences. However, for most climbers, the Lemosho Route and Northern Circuit Route are the top recommendations due to their excellent acclimatization profiles, stunning scenery, and high success rates. These routes offer a perfect balance of challenge and beauty, making them ideal for both first-time climbers and experienced adventurers.

Why Choose Trust Tours and Safari Company?

1. Expert Local Knowledge: As a Tanzanian-based tour operator, we have in-depth knowledge of Kilimanjaro’s routes, weather patterns, and challenges. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and success.
2. Personalized Service: We tailor each climb to meet your needs, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber.
3. Focus on Safety: We prioritize acclimatization, proper equipment, and emergency preparedness to ensure a safe climb.
4. Sustainable Tourism: We are committed to responsible tourism, supporting local communities, and preserving Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.
5. High Success Rates: Our carefully designed itineraries and expert guidance result in some of the highest success rates on the mountain.

Book Your Kilimanjaro Adventure with Trust Tours and Safari Company

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and choosing the right route and tour operator is key to making it unforgettable. Trust Tours and Safari Company is your trusted partner for an exceptional Kilimanjaro climb. Whether you choose the scenic Lemosho Route, the remote Northern Circuit, or any other route, we’ll ensure your adventure is safe, enjoyable, and successful. Contact us today to start planning your dream climb!