There are six main routes to the top of Kilimanjaro. Choosing the right one is one of the most important parts of planning your climb. Here is our simple guide.
Machame (7 days) — the favourite
Beautiful views, the fun Barranco Wall, and a “walk high, sleep low” day that helps your body. Busy, but popular for a good reason.
Lemosho (7–8 days) — the most beautiful
Starts on the quiet west side and crosses the Shira Plateau. Fewer people at the start and a great success rate.
Marangu (6 days) — huts with beds
The only route where you sleep in huts. Gentle slopes, but you go up and down the same way. Take the 6-day version, not 5.
Rongai (7 days) — quiet and dry
The only route from the north. Drier and quieter, a good choice in the rainy months.
Northern Circuit (9 days) — the best success rate
The longest route, all the way around the quiet north side. More days mean better acclimatisation and the best chance to reach the top.
Still not sure?
Send us a message on WhatsApp. Tell us your fitness, your dates and what you want from the climb, and we will tell you honestly which route fits you.
