Kilimanjaro Climbing

Reach the Africa’s Highest Summit

Mount Kilimanjaro has several routes to the summit, and each one reveals a different side of the mountain. From lush rainforest and open moorland to volcanic landscapes and the final push toward Uhuru Peak, the route you choose shapes the whole experience.

Machame Route

Known as the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic trails. The climb begins in the rainforest before opening into the moorland and high-altitude landscapes of the mountain. As you continue higher, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall and the southern slopes becoming some of the memorable highlights of the journey.

Best Time: June-October & January-February

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Highlights: Rainforest, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall and spectacular summit scenery.

Lemosho Route

Lemosho begins on the quieter western side of Kilimanjaro and takes a more gradual path toward the summit. The early days are particularly scenic, with remote forest and open wilderness before the route joins the southern circuit. Its longer itinerary gives you more time to settle into the altitude and enjoy the mountain without rushing.

Best Time: June to October & January to February

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Highlights: Remote wilderness, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall and beautiful mountain landscapes.

Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, taking you around the quieter northern slopes before approaching the summit. The extended time on the mountain allows you to experience a wide variety of landscapes while giving your body more time to adjust to the altitude.

Best Time: June to October & January to February

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Highlights: Northern slopes, remote trails, panoramic views, changing landscapes and excellent acclimatization.

Rongai Route

Rongai approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side, close to the Kenyan border. The trail is generally quieter than the southern routes and offers a completely different perspective of the mountain. As you climb, the landscape gradually changes before connecting with the higher summit circuit.

Best Time: June to October & January to February

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Quiet trails, northern landscapes, mountain views and a peaceful approach to the summit.

Marangu Route

Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is the only Kilimanjaro route where accommodation is provided in mountain huts rather than tents. The trail passes through rainforest, moorland and the high mountain zone before reaching the summit. Its straightforward trail and hut accommodation make it a classic choice for climbing Kilimanjaro.

Best Time: June to October & January to February

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Mountain huts, rainforest, Mandara and Horombo, moorland landscapes and the classic Kilimanjaro trail.

Umbwe Route

Umbwe is a steep and direct approach to Kilimanjaro, with dramatic ridges and rugged terrain from the early stages of the climb. The route gains altitude quickly and requires a good level of fitness, but it rewards you with a quieter and more adventurous experience before joining the southern summit circuit.

Best Time: June to October & January to February

Difficulty: Challenging

Highlights: Steep ridges, rugged trails, remote scenery and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Kilimanjaro Trekking Experiences

Every Kilimanjaro climb has its own rhythm. From the first walk through the forest to the final steps toward Uhuru Peak, our mountain team is there to guide you, manage the pace and take care of the practical details. You can focus on the trail, the changing scenery and the feeling of getting closer to the Roof of Africa.

Explore our Kilimanjaro packages below and choose the route that feels right for your journey.