Best Route To Climb Kilimanjaro

Best Route to Climb Kilimanjaro: Comparing All 7 Routes for Safety, Views & Success

So, you’ve decided to climb Africa’s highest mountain—awesome choice. But now comes the big question: Which Kilimanjaro route is best for you? With seven official paths leading to Uhuru Peak, your decision can make or break your summit experience.

From short and steep to long and scenic, each route has its own flavor. Some offer better acclimatization, others are budget-friendly, and a few will treat you to some of the best views in Africa.

Let’s break down each route so you can pick the perfect one for your goals, fitness, and timeline.

The 7 Official Kilimanjaro Routes (At a Glance)

1. Machame Route – The Most Popular (and for Good Reason)

Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is hands-down the most popular way up Kilimanjaro. Why? It’s scenic, affordable, and offers a solid balance between challenge and acclimatization.

Highlights:

• Great “climb high, sleep low” profile

• Amazing views of Shira Plateau and Lava Tower

• Hikes through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert

Best For: First-timers who want a challenge but also want to enjoy the journey

Downsides: Can get crowded in peak season

2. Lemosho Route – Best All-Around Route

If you’re looking for top-notch scenery, fewer crowds, and high summit success rates, Lemosho is tough to beat. It’s often considered the best overall route.

Highlights:

• Starts on the remote western side of the mountain

• Crosses the scenic Shira Plateau

• Excellent acclimatization with longer duration

Best For: Trekkers who want great views with a higher chance of summiting

Downsides: Slightly pricier due to longer duration and remote starting point

3. Northern Circuit – The Longest and Most Successful Route

Want the best odds of making it to Uhuru Peak? Then Northern Circuit is your golden ticket. At 8–9 days, it’s the longest route, offering the best acclimatization of them all.

Highlights:

• Highest summit success rate (90–95%)

• Least crowded route

• Panoramic views from the north side

Best For: Those with time to spare and a desire to avoid crowds

Downsides: More expensive due to extra days on the mountain

4. Marangu Route – The Easiest but Least Successful

Also called the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is the only route with hut accommodation. It’s the shortest, cheapest, and often chosen by beginners.

Highlights:

• Simple logistics and basic huts (no camping)

• Gentle incline for most of the trail

Best For: Budget travelers or those who don’t want to camp

Downsides:

• Poor acclimatization (very short ascent time)

• Lowest summit success rate

5. Rongai Route – The Quiet Northern Approach

Rongai is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It’s a good choice in the rainy season because the north side is drier.

Highlights:

• Less crowded

• More wildlife sightings

• Avoids muddy trails during wet season

Best For: Those who want solitude or are climbing during the rainy season

Downsides: Less scenic than western routes; not as strong acclimatization

6. Umbwe Route – The Toughest Way Up

If you’re looking for a challenge, Umbwe is the most direct and steepest route up the mountain. It’s also the least popular because of its low success rate and difficulty.

Highlights:

• Quickest and most intense ascent

• Fewer people

Best For: Experienced trekkers or mountaineers who want a challenge

Downsides: Terrible for acclimatization; not recommended for most climbers

7. Shira Route – A Scenic but Risky Start

The Shira Route is similar to Lemosho but starts higher up, which can be problematic if you’re not already acclimated.

Highlights:

• Crosses the beautiful Shira Plateau

• Great views, moderate difficulty

Best For: Trekkers looking for an alternative to Lemosho

Downsides: Higher starting point increases risk of altitude sickness early on

Which Kilimanjaro Route Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide based on your needs: