The 7 Different Mount Kilimanjaro Routes to ClimbThere are seven routes that can be taken to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Some of the Mount Kilimanjaro routes actually meet and intertwine after a few days of climbing. The seven routes we will discuss approach the mountain from different sides and differ in length as well as in difficulty levels. Marangu Route: This route has been touted as the most popular Mount Kilimanjaro route, until recently when Machame took the title. This remains the only one of the seven that uses the same route going up and coming down. Also, it is typically the most crowded as it usually offers very low priced packages for Mount Kilimanjaro expeditions. The Marangu route takes about 5 days, but does have the lowest success rate. On this route camping equipment is not needed as you will be staying in huts. Machame Route: This is said to be the most scenic of the Mount Kilimanjaro routes and has taken over the title of the most popular of the seven. This route takes 6 or 7 days but has a higher success rate than Marangu due to your ability to acclimate to the altitude. The Mt Kilimanjaro expedition packages are relatively low priced which in turn does make this route very crowded. Rongai Route: This route is said to be the easiest and quietest route up Mt. Kilimanjaro. The Rongai is the only route that approaches Kilimianjaro from the north which is the driest side and gives you the best chances of experiencing good weather. The packages are typically higher priced because you ascend and descend on opposite sides of the mountain which allows you to see part of the Marangu route as well. Shira Route: This route is typically less crowded and is very scenic. It does have a higher difficulty level compared to many of the other Mt Kilimanjaro routes because there are several possible variations. This route takes 6 to 8 days and does have a higher package cost. The Shira route meets the Machame route around day 3 of the climb. Lemosho Route: This route takes between 7 and 8 days and is much less crowded on the first few days. The crowds may increase around day 4 as this route meets Machame and Shira routes at that time. It is also very scenic and does have a higher difficulty level which in turn results in higher expedition package prices. Umbwe Route: Extremely steep/difficult route! This route is only used by experienced mountain climbers and is not recommended for beginners. Also, we don't recommend it for those climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for the first time. Mweka Route: This route is only used for descending the mountain. The Shira, Lemosho, Machame and Umbwe routes all use this route while descending. There are alternative paths and routes that you can create or find out about through your travel agency or Mount Kilimanjaro expedition group.
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