1. Marangu Route
Length: 5-6 days
Distance: ~72 km (45 miles)
Highlights: Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” this is the only route with hut accommodations.
Challenges:
Rapid ascent, which can lead to altitude sickness as acclimatization time is short.
Limited scenery compared to other routes because it follows the same path up and down.
High foot traffic due to its popularity.
2. Machame Route
Length: 6-7 days
Distance: ~62 km (38.5 miles)
Highlights: Often called the “Whiskey Route,” it offers diverse scenery, from rainforest to alpine desert.
Challenges:
Steeper and more demanding, with more challenging terrain than Marangu.
Somewhat crowded, especially during peak seasons.
Requires good physical conditioning due to its steep ascents and longer trekking days.
3. Lemosho Route
Length: 7-8 days
Distance: ~70 km (43.5 miles)
Highlights: Scenic route with beautiful views, remote at the start, and high success rate due to gradual ascent.
Challenges:
Long and somewhat expensive, as it requires more days and additional transport to the trailhead.
Less crowded initially, but merges with the Machame Route on day 3, increasing traffic toward the summit.
4. Shira Route
Length: 6-8 days
Distance: ~56 km (35 miles)
Highlights: Starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro, passing through diverse ecological zones.
Challenges:
Begins at a high altitude (around 3,600 m or 11,800 ft), which can make acclimatization harder for some.
Demands good physical fitness due to its steeper climbs and initial high altitude.
5. Rongai Route
Length: 6-7 days
Distance: ~72 km (45 miles)
Highlights: Approaches from the north, close to the Kenyan border, offering unique views and a drier climate.
Challenges:
Less scenic than other routes, with fewer changes in vegetation.
The drier climate can make the trail dusty.
Challenging on summit day due to a steep ascent, although the route itself is gradual.
6. Northern Circuit Route
Length: 8-9 days
Distance: ~98 km (61 miles)
Highlights: The newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro, with beautiful 360° panoramic views, high success rate, and ideal for acclimatization.
Challenges:
Long duration (most extended route), which can be taxing physically and financially.
Requires strong stamina and endurance due to the length and time spent on the mountain.
7. Umbwe Route
Length: 5-6 days
Distance: ~53 km (33 miles)
Highlights: The shortest and steepest route, often considered the most challenging.
Challenges:
Steep ascent offers little time for acclimatization, making altitude sickness a high risk.
Requires strong fitness and endurance due to its rapid ascent.
Less scenic and more strenuous, recommended for experienced climbers.
Key Considerations for Climbing Kilimanjaro
Altitude Sickness: Routes that allow for gradual altitude gain (like the Northern Circuit and Lemosho) generally have higher summit success rates.
Physical Fitness: Some routes, like Umbwe and Machame, require better physical conditioning.
Budget and Time: Longer routes increase the chances of reaching the summit but are often costlier due to more days on the mountain.