Kilimanjaro Routes – Which is the Best Route to Climb?

Kilimanjaro Routes – Which is the Best Route to Climb?

Mount Kilimanjaro has seven main routes that lead to the summit...

• Northern Circuit Route
• Lemosho Route
• Shira Route
• Machame Route (also called the “Whiskey Route”)
• Rongai Route
• Marangu Route (also known as the “Coca-Cola Route”)
• Umbwe Route

Summary Table

Route	Duration	Success Rate	Highlights
Northern Circuit	8–9 days	90–95%	Best acclimatization, least crowded
Lemosho	7–8 days	85–90%	Scenic, good acclimatization

Route Comparison: Pros & Cons

Machame Route – from $2,680

• Great acclimatization – “walk high, sleep low”
• Amazing scenery and different route down
• High success rate
• Camping throughout

Key Things to Consider When Choosing a Route

1. Acclimatization – Slow and steady is safest...
2. Summit Night Difficulty – Routes like Rongai...
3. Crowds – For more solitude, choose Rongai...
4. Accommodation – Marangu has huts...
5. Safety – All routes safe if done properly...
6. Summit Success Rate – Longer routes have higher...

Summary

If your main goal is to reach the summit safely and enjoy stunning views, go with the Lemosho or Machame...