Mount Kilimanjaro
Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing
The highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro (5 892 meters, 19 334 feet), is located in northern Tanzania. Kilimanjaro is also the highest freestanding mountain in the world. Next to the equator, this dormant volcano is a wonder to behold. The mountain offers an extraordinary adventure through four distinct climate zones – from rainforests to glacial summit. This UNESCO World Heritage site welcomes climbers of all fitness levels, though success requires proper preparation for high-altitude conditions. With multiple routes available, your Kilimanjaro dream is achievable. Experience this once in a lifetime journey.
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The Best Kilimanjaro Routes
Choosing your Kilimanjaro route determines your summit success. Whether your a a beginner or expert climber, the routes listed below offer different challenges, scenery, and success rates. Select the route of your choice to learn more:
The Northern Circuit Route
Experience Kilimanjaro’s highest summit success rate on this exclusive 9-day journey. The Northern Circuit Route is the longest route that circles the mountain, offering unparalleled acclimatization, breathtaking 360-degree views, and peaceful trails away from crowds. Starting from the west, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes while your body naturally adjusts to altitude, maximizing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.
Lemosho Route
This is Mt. Kilimanjaro’s most scenic route where you’ll explore the mountain from the western side through pristine rainforest, wildlife-rich Shira Plateau, and dramatic moorlands. The route features beautiful views and easier summit night via Stella Point—less than 1 hour from Uhuru Peak versus longer, harder climbs on other routes. This premium trail combines breathtaking diversity with strategic positioning for summit success.
Machame Route
The Machame “Whiskey Route” delivers Kilimanjaro’s most spectacular scenery through diverse landscapes and challenging terrain. Its proven “climb high, sleep low” strategy maximizes summit success through superior acclimatization. While demanding steep ascents and tent camping, this popular trail rewards determined climbers with unmatched views and excellent preparation for the final push to Africa’s highest peak.
Marangu Route
Marangu (Kilimanjaro’s ‘Coca-Cola Route’) offers hut accommodations on a 5-6 day trek, making it popular with budget-conscious beginners. However, the shared ascent/descent path and compressed timeline contribute to only 65% summit success—significantly lower than longer routes. Best suited for budget-friendly beginners & experienced hikers who are comfortable with higher risk/reward scenarios or those requiring hut comfort, especially during the rainy seasons.
Rongai Route
This is Kilimanjaro’s Hidden Northern Gateway, the only trail starting from Kenya’s border. The Rongai Route offers exclusive access through untouched wilderness. While fewer climbers choose this peaceful path, its gentle gradient and all-weather reliability make it ideal for those seeking a more intimate Kilimanjaro experience away from crowded southern routes.
Umbwe Route
The steepest, most direct Kilimanjaro ascent. This demanding 6-7 day route merges with Machame after two days, offering experienced mountaineers solitude and intensity. Minimal crowds, maximum challenge. The 6-day option requires exceptional fitness and altitude experience. Not for beginners—this is technical climbing at its most unforgiving.
The Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Join the many adventurers who have conquered Africa’s highest peak with our expert guidance. While others worry about the weather, our proven strategies work year round. Even during rainy seasons. Your Kilimanjaro dream doesn’t have to wait for ‘perfect’ conditions. Our Expert Guides are ready to help you summit the Roof of Africa regardless of the season.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Packing List
We will send you a list of your packing essentials for the climb. Items include: hiking boots, warm layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp, trekking poles and water bottles.
In Moshi town, we have mountain gear rental shops offering top quality equipments.
Send us an email now and we will guide you step by step towards your summit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical climb, meaning you don’t need mountaineering experience or specialized equipment like ropes and ice axes. However, it’s physically and mentally demanding due to the altitude, distance (25-40 miles depending on route), and consecutive days of hiking. The main challenge is altitude sickness, which affects about 75% of climbers to some degree. While no technical climbing skills are required, you should be in good physical condition and prepared for 6-9 days of continuous trekking.
What is the success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak (summit)?
Overall success rates vary significantly by route and duration:
- 5-day routes: 60-70% success rate
- 6-day routes: 70-80% success rate
- 7-8 day routes: 85-95% success rate
- Lemosho/Machame routes: Generally higher success rates (80-90%)
- Marangu route: Lower success rates (60-70%)
The longer routes allow better acclimatization, dramatically improving your chances. Rushing the ascent is the primary reason for summit failure.
How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?
Costs vary significantly based on route, duration, group, operator quality and safety .
Prices start from 1500 $ to 2200 $
Additional costs include:
-Flights to Tanzania: $900-$1,800
-Rent of the Gear: $300-$600
-Tips for guides/porters: $200-$500
-Visas and permits: $50-$150
-Travel insurance
Important: Extremely cheap operators often compromise on safety, equipment quality, guide training, and fair porter treatment.
What gear do I need and what can I rent locally?
Must bring from home:
- Hiking boots (broken in)
- Quality base layers and insulation
- Rain gear
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Personal medications
- Sleeping bag rated to -10°C/14°F
Available for rent in Moshi/Arusha:
- Sleeping bags
- Trekking poles
- Gaiters
- Crampons (if needed)
- Larger backpacks
- Some clothing items
Rental quality varies significantly. Critical items like boots and base layers should be purchased and tested beforehand. Budget $50-$150 for local gear rental.
How should I train for climbing Kilimanjaro?
Cardiovascular fitness is most important:
- Start training 3-6 months before your climb
- Build up to hiking 6-8 hours with a weighted pack (15-20 lbs)
- Include stair climbing, hill walking, and long hikes
- Focus on leg strength exercises (squats, lunges, step-ups)
Mental preparation:
- Practice hiking in various weather conditions
- Build tolerance for discomfort and fatigue
- Learn about altitude sickness symptoms
No altitude training is possible at sea level, but excellent cardiovascular fitness helps your body cope better with reduced oxygen levels.
What about altitude sickness and safety concerns?
Altitude sickness affects most climbers above 8,000 feet:
- Mild symptoms: Headache, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite
- Severe symptoms: Difficulty breathing, confusion, loss of coordination
- Prevention: Climb slowly, stay hydrated, listen to your body
Safety measures:
- Choose operators with proper safety equipment (oxygen, stretchers, first aid)
- Ensure guides are trained in wilderness first aid
- Carry comprehensive travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation
- Be prepared to descend if symptoms worsen
Red flags: Avoid operators who don’t carry safety equipment or pressure you to continue with severe symptoms.
What should I expect from guides, porters, and tipping?
Guide responsibilities:
- Route navigation and safety monitoring
- Altitude sickness assessment
- Cultural interpretation and motivation
Porter responsibilities:
- Carry group equipment and camping gear (not your personal daypack)
- Set up and break camp
- Assist with meals
Tipping guidelines (per climber for entire trek):
- Head guide: $20-25 per day
- Assistant guides: $15-20 per day
- Cook: $12-15 per day
- Porters: $8-12 per day each
Tips are a significant portion of crew income and should be budgeted as a mandatory expense, not optional.
What are the accommodation and food like during the trek?
Accommodation:
- Camping routes: 2-person mountain tents, foam sleeping pads provided
- Marangu route: Basic mountain huts with bunk beds (bring sleeping bag)
- Toilet facilities: Basic pit latrines, some routes have better facilities than others
Food:
- Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, toast, fruit, coffee/tea
- Lunch: Packed lunch with sandwiches, fruit, snacks
- Dinner: Soup, rice/pasta with meat/vegetables, dessert
- Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with advance notice
Water: Treated water provided by crew, but bring purification tablets as backup. Stay hydrated (3-4 liters per day) but balance with electrolyte intake.
The food is generally hearty and sufficient, though appetite may decrease with altitude. Quality varies significantly between operators.
Let's plan your next adventure!
To get started, please fill the form or use the contacts below to get in touch with one of our specialists that can help you plan your trip to Tanzania.
Get in Touch
- +255 655 335 899
- info@tavoadventures.com
- P. O. Box 8193 Moshi, Kilimanjaro Shanty Town Road Plot No 147 B”