Discover Kilimanjaro Routes

Choosing a route can be a personal experience that you may put huge weight on. Here at Merino Travels we believe each route will provide you with a unique approach to your climb. Our Favorite routes to the top are Lemosho, Marangu, and Machame. Mweka Route is strictly used as a descent from the mountain. You will cross five climate zones in your climb to include the Cultivation, Forest, Heather, Moorland, Alpine, and Summit and each have unique terrain and weather. Summits tend to be much busier from January to September. We are here to help you choose if you would like help and we would also highly recommend you plan to arrive with at least one day before and join us on a Coffee Tour and small acclimatization hike to the local Materuni Waterfall! Other very popular things that people book after their hike would include Chemka Hot Springs and of course our Safaris!

The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular and scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It typically takes 5 to 7 days, allowing for better acclimatization due to its "climb high, sleep low" profile. The trail begins in the lush rainforest at Machame Gate and ascends through moorland, alpine desert, and eventually to the icy summit of Uhuru Peak. Hikers pass notable landmarks like Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and Lava Tower, offering dramatic views and diverse ecosystems. Though more challenging than some other routes, it is favored for its beauty and high success rate.

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, starting on the western side of the mountain. It typically takes 7 to 8 days, allowing for better acclimatization and a higher success rate. The route traverses lush rainforest, the Shira Plateau, alpine deserts, and culminates at Uhuru Peak via Stella Point. Wildlife sightings and expansive views across the Shira Ridge enhance its appeal. It is considered a great choice for trekkers seeking a beautiful and gradual ascent with fewer people.

The Marangu Route, known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the oldest and most established trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers hut accommodations instead of tents, providing more comfort and shelter from the elements. The trail ascends and descends along the same path, which can make it feel more crowded. Due to its relatively short duration—typically 5 to 6 days—it offers less time for acclimatization, resulting in a lower summit success rate. Despite this, it's popular for its convenience and ease of logistics.

The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, offering a quieter and drier climb. It is known for its gentle slope and steady ascent, making it a good option for those seeking an easier route. While it is less scenic than the western approaches, it passes through diverse environments, from alpine desert to forest. The descent is made via the Marangu Route, adding some variety. With a typical duration of 6 to 7 days, it allows decent acclimatization and has a moderate success rate.

The Shira Route is one of the older and less commonly used routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, beginning on the western side of the mountain like the Lemosho Route. It starts at a higher elevation, which can be challenging for acclimatization early in the trek. The route crosses the scenic Shira Plateau, offering expansive views and fewer crowds. It eventually merges with the Machame Route, following the same path to the summit via the Southern Circuit and Stella Point. Though beautiful and remote, it’s generally less favored than Lemosho due to its abrupt start at high altitude.

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and newest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the most thorough acclimatization and the highest summit success rate. It begins on the western side via the Lemosho Route and then traverses around the remote northern slopes of the mountain. This route is exceptionally scenic and quiet, with minimal foot traffic and panoramic views across the mountain and surrounding plains. With a duration of 9 to 10 days, it allows climbers to ascend gradually, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Though more expensive and time-consuming, it's ideal for those seeking a less crowded, more immersive experience.

The Umbwe Route is the steepest, most direct, and one of the most physically demanding routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It ascends quickly through dense rainforest and rugged terrain, offering a sense of solitude and adventure due to low traffic. The rapid elevation gain provides poor acclimatization, making it more suitable for experienced, well-conditioned climbers. It eventually merges with the Machame Route at Barranco Camp and follows the Southern Circuit to the summit. While highly scenic and dramatic, it has a lower summit success rate because of the fast pace and altitude challenges.