Climbing Kilimanjaro
Choose from 7 different routes to Africa's highest peak. Expert guides, ethical practices, and the best success rates in Tanzania.
Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes: Overview
There are seven different Kilimanjaro climbing routes to choose from, each with various pros and cons to suit different capabilities and preferences.
Best for Beginners
Marangu or Machame Routes
Spectacular Scenery
Lemosho or Machame Routes
Budget Friendly
Marangu Route
Moderate Hikers
Machame or Lemosho Routes
Expert Hikers
Umbwe Route
Most Popular
Machame Route
Longest Route
Northern Circuit
Rainy Season
Rongai Route
Highest Success Rate
8-day Lemosho or 9-day Northern Circuit
Choose Your Kilimanjaro Route
All our trips are tailor-made and fully customizable. We'll adjust every detail to suit your wishes, interests, and travel style.
10-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the successful 7-day Lemosho Route
- Spectacular Shira Plateau
- Breathtaking Summit Sunrise
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
The Lemosho Route is a beautiful and unique route, known for its breathtaking views. Starting on the western side of Kilimanjaro, it offers a secluded hiking experience with unspoiled trails leading to the famous Shira Plateau.
9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the popular 6-day Machame Route
- Rainforest Hikes
- Breathtaking Summit Sunrise
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
Known as the "Whiskey Route", Machame offers varied scenery and strong acclimatization. It's a favorite for trekkers seeking a scenic challenge with diverse landscapes and good summit success rates.
8-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the 5-day Marangu Route with huts
- Beautiful Maundi Crater
- Lunar Landscape Views
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
Also called the "Coca-Cola Route", Marangu is the only route with hut accommodation. Popular for a slightly shorter itinerary and steady gradients. Less scenic but more comfortable.
9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the challenging 6-day Rongai Route
- Diverse Scenic Routes
- Wildlife Spotting
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
The only route approaching from the north, Rongai offers a more remote and less crowded experience. It's drier and provides excellent views of Kenya. Good for those seeking solitude.
9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro, starting at a high altitude on the 6-day Shira Route
- Stunning Shira Plateau
- Scenic Acclimatization Hikes
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
Starting at a higher altitude, Shira offers a unique beginning with stunning views of the Shira Plateau. It's less crowded and provides excellent acclimatization. Good for experienced trekkers.
11-day trip: wander up Kilimanjaro via the 8-day Northern Circuit Route
- Remote Alpine Camps
- Epic Summit Views
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
A longer, quieter loop around the mountain with excellent acclimatization and panoramic views. Ideal for trekkers who prefer fewer crowds and higher summit odds. Highest success rate.
9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the steep 6-day Umbwe Route
- Scenic Rainforest
- Midnight Summit Push
- Certified for Ethical Climbing
The most challenging and steepest route, Umbwe is for experienced trekkers seeking a direct ascent. It's the shortest route but requires excellent fitness and acclimatization. Not recommended for beginners.
A Milestone in Ethical Climbing: Our KRTO Certification
We're proud to announce that Muyuni Adventures is now officially certified by the Kilimanjaro Responsible Trekking Organization (KRTO). This certification underscores our commitment to fair porter treatment, ethical practices, and environmental responsibility.
When you climb with us, you're not just conquering Africa's highest peak—you're contributing to a sustainable future for Kilimanjaro and its communities.
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a year-round experience. We provide expert advice on the best time for you to plan your Kilimanjaro trip based on your individual requirements.
December to March
Warmest Months
Clearer skies, less chance of snow on the trail. February is the best month with high temperatures and low rainfall chances.
June to October
Dry Season
Noticeably colder temperatures and busier trails, but excellent climbing conditions with clear visibility.
April to May & November
Rainy Season
Wet, slippery conditions with limited visibility. Fewer crowds but more challenging conditions for experienced climbers.
Let us create your tailor-made Kilimanjaro trip
Receive a free, no obligation quote. All our trips are 100% tailor-made and fully customizable.