Climb the Roof of Africa
Six established routes, one summit. We've guided travellers to the top of Kilimanjaro for over fifteen years — this is everything you need to choose the right climb, prepare well, and reach Uhuru Peak.
5,895 m
Summit altitude (Uhuru Peak)
6 routes
From scenic to direct
92%
Our average summit rate
The details that get you to Uhuru Peak
Kilimanjaro success is mostly about acclimatisation, crew quality, and not cutting corners on safety. Here's how we stack up.
Six routes, one summit
The route you pick decides scenery, acclimatisation profile, crowd levels and how long you're on the mountain. Here's how they compare.
Machame Route
The Whiskey Route
Tanzania's most popular ascent — a scenic southern climb with strong acclimatisation, varied landscapes and a fair shot at the summit.
Lemosho Route
The Scenic Route
Our top recommendation. A longer western approach with the best acclimatisation profile on the mountain and the highest summit success rates.
Marangu Route
The Coca-Cola Route
The only route with permanent huts — no tents, basic mattresses and shared meals. Shorter and cheaper, but with lower summit odds.
Rongai Route
The Northern Approach
The only route from the north — drier, quieter and a different look at the mountain. Recommended in the wet season.
Northern Circuit
The Grand Tour
The longest route on the mountain — a near-360° loop with the highest summit rates and the quietest trails. Our pick if time isn't tight.
Umbwe Route
The Direct Route
The shortest, steepest path to the summit — for experienced trekkers who already know how their body handles altitude.
| Route | Days | Distance | Summit rate | Scenery | Traffic | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machame Route The Whiskey Route | 7 | 62 km | 85% | High | Strenuous | |
| Lemosho Route The Scenic Route | 8 | 70 km | 90% | Medium | Strenuous | |
| Marangu Route The Coca-Cola Route | 6 | 72 km | 65% | High | Moderate | |
| Rongai Route The Northern Approach | 7 | 73 km | 80% | Low | Strenuous | |
| Northern Circuit The Grand Tour | 9 | 98 km | 95% | Low | Strenuous | |
| Umbwe Route The Direct Route | 6 | 53 km | 70% | Low | Extreme |
Climbers who made it to Uhuru Peak
Frequently asked questions
What climbers ask most — fitness, timing, what's included, altitude. Still have a question? Drop us a line.
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