The mountain of the Kilimanjaro is actually an inactive volcano located in the northeast of the Republic of Tanzania. An exceptional place teeming with wildlife and vast migrating herds of mammals. The mountain has three summits, Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira, with Uhuru Peak at the old Kibo crater, the highest point.
The highest peak on the African continent stands at an altitude of 5,895 metres.
Every year, thousands of travellers head to the Kilimanjaro to join expeditions attempting to reach the summit. There are several ways to do so: in organised groups, individually or via different routes, always accompanied by guides and porters authorised by Tanzania’s tourism authorities. Approximately 20,000 visitors try each year to reach the summit and earn their certificate. Here are some basics worth knowing before embarking on this exciting African adventure.
Which route should you take up Kilimanjaro?
The most common routes to Uhuru Peak are Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira and Rongai. Some share sections: Lemosho runs parallel to lower Shira, joining it on the third day and merging with Machame at Shira 2 Camp. The descent follows the Mweka path on both the Marangu and Rongai routes.
Difficulty of the Kilimanjaro ascent
Climbing Kilimanjaro is closer to an extended walk or trek than an Alpine ascent. Routes differ, but they generally require no climbing or ice travel skills, except for a few sections around Barranco Valley on the Machame, Umbwe and Lemosho routes.
Trails are generally signposted and well maintained. The most difficult sections are higher up, where steep slopes and loose gravel make the ascent slow and demanding.
The main challenges are therefore the total distance and ascent, along with altitude sickness. On Kilimanjaro, every day brings a gain in altitude, requiring physical preparation and the discipline to avoid rushing, recognise your limits and pace yourself.
Marangu Route
The most popular and straightforward route up Kilimanjaro, and also the busiest. The descent follows the same path as the ascent. Overnight stays are in huts with beds and running water but no electricity.
From a physical standpoint, is the least demanding route. Route duration without additional acclimatisation days: five days from and back to Moshi, with three and a half days of ascent and one and a half of descent. Total distance: 64 km.
Machame Route
A circular route on the mountain’s southern and southwestern slopes. The second busiest route, and one of the most beautiful. It crosses rough terrain and requires previous mountain experience.
A major attraction is the beautiful route through Lava Tower at 4630 m, followed by the descent to Barranco Camp at 3950 m, which aids acclimatisation and increases summit success. Without additional acclimatisation stages, the route takes six days from Moshi and back: four and a half days ascending and one and a half descending, covering 100 km in total.
✔️ Tanzania
✔️ 8 days of trekking
✔️ Daily departures for 2 or more people
✔️ Price from 1990€
We present the two most popular summit routes: Marangu, with overnight stays in huts, and Machame, camping on the mountain. Both allow us to reach Gilman’s Point (5,700 m) and Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Lemosho Route
One of the most attractive ascent routes, with magnificent views and a high success rate. It approaches from the west across the Shira Plateau, then joins the southern circuit to the summit. The descent usually follows the Mweka trail. This route joins Shira on the third day and Machame at Shira 2 Camp. Without additional acclimatisation days, it takes eight days from Moshi and back: six and a half days ascending and one and a half descending, covering 98 km.
Rongai Route
Remote and little used, the Rongai route is beautiful and straightforward. It is more scenic than Marangu, easier than Machame and has a high success rate. The ascent follows the north side, joining Marangu for the summit, while the descent follows the southeast side. It offers magnificent views of Kenya’s savannah and chances to see wildlife. Without additional acclimatisation stages, the route takes six days from Moshi and back: four and a half days ascending and a day and a half descending, covering 70 km in total.
✔️ Tanzania
✔️ 8 days of trekking
✔️ Departures 6, 27 JUL > 8, 17 AUG > 7 SEP > 5 OCT 2023
✔️ Price from 2965€
The only route ascending Kilimanjaro from the northern side, with fewer visitors. Conditions are less humid here, with a better chance of fine weather in the first days.
Reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit. Video by Alexandre Ruzafa
This is the ascent of Kilimanjaro via the Machame route we mentioned. Alexandre Ruzafa’s video shows one of the most beautiful routes to Kilimanjaro’s summit, capturing the group’s emotion and joyful faces on reaching the top.
Kilimanjaro. Map of routes and highlights
See the different routes and options for reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit here. On our ascents to the roof of Africa the porters carry all the necessary equipment and supplies, and a cook is available to prepare all meals for a more comfortable expedition.