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Comprehensive Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Routes

Popular Kilimanjaro Hiking Routes – There are several established routes to help travelers reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Each route provides unique experiences.

Mount Kilimanjaro Park Entry Fees - Costs for Climbers & Visitors

The duration for climbing ranges from 5 to 9 days and varies in terrain, difficulty, and cost.

Umbwe Route

The Umbwe route is the most challenging path to the summit. It is for hikers seeking a real challenge and who are well-prepared for the climb. This route is less crowded because many avoid it due to its difficulty. The Umbwe route takes 6 days to reach the summit and descend.

This route provides limited time for acclimatization, resulting in a low success rate compared to other routes. Although the trail is very tough, the scenery is remarkable.

The trekking distance for the Umbwe route is 52 kilometers, with short ascents and strenuous hikes. Trekkers can choose an optional one-hour hike to the Reusch Crater. Previous hiking experience is required for this route.

Rongai Route

The Rongai route is a unique path to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching the mountain from the Kenyan border. It is less frequented by hikers, offering a wilderness experience with opportunities to spot wildlife. However, the views are not as impressive as other routes.

The Rongai route is the most expensive trail on the mountain and takes 7 days to complete, including the summit and descent. The total trekking distance is 73 kilometers, with daily hikes lasting 6 to 8 hours and an elevation gain of 900 to 1,000 meters per day. Trekkers should be prepared to go without a shower for about a week.

Lemosho Route

The Lemosho route is a newer trail that has received positive reviews for its beautiful scenery. Travelers using this route can complete the trek in 7 or 8 days, although the 8-day option is recommended for better acclimatization.

The route begins at Londorossi Gate on the western slopes of the mountain and joins the Machame route near Lava Tower. Trekkers cross the Shira Plateau and may encounter wildlife along the way.

The Lemosho route covers about 70 kilometers. Londorossi Gate is a 3 to 4-hour drive from Arusha or a 2 to 3-hour drive from Moshi. This route has a high success rate of 90% with the 8-day option, as it allows sufficient time for acclimatization.

Machame Route

The Machame route, also called the Whisky route, is one of the most popular paths on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is favored for its accessibility, short itinerary, and stunning views. Hikers sleep in tents and cover steep distances each day.

The trek begins at Machame Gate on the southern base of the mountain, accessible from Arusha or Moshi. It can be completed in 6 or 7 days. The route covers 62 kilometers, with an elevation gain of 16,000 to 17,000 feet. This route is suitable for physically fit hikers, although first-timers can also use it.

Marangu Route

The Marangu route, known as the Coca-Cola route, is the oldest and most comfortable path for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route with dormitory hut accommodations instead of tents. The trek takes 6 days to complete, making it ideal for first-time climbers.

The route has 60 bunk beds at Kibo Hut, 120 at Horombo Hut, and 60 at Mandara Hut. The Marangu and Horombo huts have dining facilities, washrooms, and flush toilets, while Kibo Hut provides buckets of water and long-drop toilets.

The Marangu route is less scenic than other routes but passes through misty forests, moorlands, alpine areas, rocky paths, and snow. It covers 72 kilometers and is often crowded. The route has a lower success rate because many climbers experience altitude sickness, especially those attempting a 5-day itinerary, which does not allow enough time for acclimatization. The Marangu route is also less expensive compared to other routes.



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