Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure but choosing the best Kilimanjaro route can make the difference between a successful summit and turning back early. With seven official Kilimanjaro routes available, the choice can be overwhelming.
At Kilimanjaro Lifetime Adventures, we’ve guided hundreds of climbers up all routes. Based on our experience, client feedback, and data, here’s our honest breakdown of the Top 5 Kilimanjaro routes, including the best route for beginners, most scenic route, quietest route, and more.
Lemosho Route – Best Overall Kilimanjaro Route
If you’re looking for the best route to climb Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route is our #1 recommendation. It offers an excellent balance of scenic variety, minimal crowds, and the highest summit success rate thanks to its long acclimatization period.
Highlights of the Lemosho Route:
- Starts from the west remote and quiet trail
- Passes through rainforest, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and Barranco Wall
- 8-day itinerary allows gradual altitude gain
- Great for photography and nature lovers
Machame Route – Best for Adventure & Scenery
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is perfect for adventurous climbers seeking a thrilling, scenic trek. It is one of the most popular Kilimanjaro routes due to its dramatic landscapes and better acclimatization than shorter routes.
Why Choose the Machame Route:
- Spectacular views of varied terrain and landscapes
- Passes iconic spots like Lava Tower and Barranco Wall
- Slightly more challenging but very rewarding
- Ideal for those with moderate hiking experience
Rongai Route – Best for Peace & Solitude
Approaching from the north near the Kenyan border, the Rongai Route is the quietest route on Kilimanjaro. It offers a dry trail, making it ideal during rainy seasons, and gives trekkers the chance to see wildlife in the early days of the hike.
Why the Rongai Route is Unique:
- Only route starting from the northern side
- Drier trail – great during wet months
- Less crowded = peaceful trekking experience
- Gradual slope – good for beginners
Marangu Route – Best for Beginners Who Prefer Huts
Nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” the Marangu Route is the only one with hut accommodations instead of tents, making it popular among first-time climbers and those trekking in rainy conditions. However, its shorter duration affects acclimatization.
Features of the Marangu Route:
- Comfortable huts provided (no camping)
- Uses same trail for ascent and descent
- Physically easy but faster pace = lower summit success
- Popular during rainy season
Northern Circuit – Best for Serious Trekkers
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and least crowded route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers incredible panoramic views and excellent acclimatization, making it ideal for climbers with more time and a desire for a remote, quiet experience.
Why We Love the Northern Circuit:
- 9 days = excellent acclimatization and high success rate
- Circles the less-traveled northern slopes
- Remote, peaceful, and scenic
- Requires time and fitness, but very rewarding
