Mount Kilimanjaro Itineraries

Machame Route

The Machame route is very scenic but is more populated by trekkers. This route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends using the Mweka route, rewarding climbers with views of the expansive Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, you will climb up the Great Barranco wall, and a traverse underneath Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field.

Lemosho Route

Lemosho route is one of the best routes for acclimatization. The route is less used and a beautiful way up to the Shira Plateau. This route is one of the few where groups may be accompanied on the first day by a ranger, as the forests around the Lemosho Glades are inhabited by buffalo, elephant and other wildlife.

Northern Circuit

The Northern Circuit is the newest route up Kilimanjaro and also the longest. Due to its length, the Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate. The route follows the same route as Lemosho for the first two days and then veers around the quieter northern slopes to the east side of the mountain. The Northern Circuit approaches the summit via Gilman's Point before descending on the same route as the Machame and Lemosho routes.

Rongai Route

The Rongai Route is said to be easier and this provides a higher success rate of completion. The route starts on the north side of the mountain near the Kenyan border and is one of the least traveled routes. The descent down the Marangu Route is on the south side of the mountain, so climbers see the mountain from many view points. Overall this route is less scenic than other routes.

Marangu Route

Marangu route is also known as the coca cola route. This is the only route with the comforts of sleeping at huts at every camp site with solar lights and beds (based on availability). The huts are communal, and most bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow.