Machame Route

The Machame route on Mount Kilimanjaro is slightly more challenging than the other routes. The Machame route is also referred to as the whiskey route as it is considered to be more difficult and more intoxicating than the Marangu (coca-cola) route. The trek begins at Machame Gate in the Kilimanjaro rainforest and ascends through the forest on the South Western side of the mountain until it reaches the Shira Plateau, where you will enjoy stunning views across the Shira Plateau, Western Breach and Kibo. From the Shira two camp you will hike across the plateau to the Barranco wall and then will follow the southern circuit path to Barafu Camp. The descent for the Machame route is via the Mweka route; this route is typically completed in 7 days allowing for good acclimatization.

Marangu Route

This is the easiest route to the summit of Kilimanjaro, sometimes called the Coca-Cola Route. The Marangu route takes you at a gentle pace through forests, moorlands and then across The Saddle, a high-altitude desert separating the main summit, Kibo, 5896m, from craggy Mawenzi, 5149m, to Kibo Hut. From here an early start is made for the ascent to Uhuru Point (the highest top of Kibo). The path zig-zags up steep scree which is easier to climb when frozen. The views from the crater rim at Gillman's Point at dawn can be spectacular. Uhuru Peak lies a further 1h30min. around the rim.

Accommodation on the mountain is in comfortable huts. You will need a sleeping bag, warm clothes and walking poles. This is a tough walking trip but within the limits of a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas. An extra day for acclimatisation to the altitude is recommended at Horombo from where there are various walks to enjoy.

Lemosho Route

The Kilimanjaro Lemosho route is an unspoiled and tranquil route that approaches Kibo from the West. The first two days of the trek are spent in the rainforest enjoying the peace and quiet of this less populated route. On the second day of the climb you will emerge out of the forest and onto the Shira Plateau. Once across the Plateau the route then follows the Southern Circuit route to Barranco Wall, Lava Tower and Barafu Hut, before the final ascent to the summit. The Lemosho route is one of the longest routes on the mountain and utilizes the additional day to assist with acclimatization. The Lemosho route is also one of the quietest routes on the mountain and has some of the most spectacular scenery of all the routes. Descent is via the Mweka route on the southern side of the mountain. This route is typically completed in 8 days allowing for excellent acclimatization.

Rongai Route

The Rongai route is the only trail to approach Kibo from the North, on the Kenyan side of the mountain. The Rongai route is considered more scenic than the Marangu route, easier than the Machame route and has a high summit success rate. The Rongai route is also one of the quietest routes as it does not converge with any other route until it joins the Marangu for the ascent on the summit. Descent is again via the Marangu route on the southeast side of the mountain. This route is typically completed in 7 days allowing for good acclimatization.

Umbwe Route

The Umbwe route is the most demanding route on Kilimanjaro due to the direct approach. This less climbed route begins at Umbwe Gate and ascends the Western side of the mountain until it reaches Barranco Camp. From there it joins the Southern Circuit and the summit ascent is via the Barafu Hut route. Descent is via the Mweka route. This is the most physically demanding of all the routes and should be attempted in no less than 6 days.