Mount Kilimanjaro Routes: Which One Should You Choose?

The magnificent and breathtaking Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest free-standing mountain rise. It has the impressive status of not being part of any mountain range, but is a challenge all unto itself.

This natural giant hosts different environments, from the Shira Plateau to the Southern Glacias, and is the home to over 154 species of mammals, countless birds, and unique reptiles.

Trekking the Mount Kilimanjaro routes around this volcano takes you to places and shows you sites you could never imagine in your wildest dreams. However, which route is the best one for you?  

There are different challenges that you can face, so there are routes for the novice hiker all the way to the advanced thrill-seeker. There are some paths that you can do in a day, but there are others that will take a few days and involve staying in camps up the mountainside. 

Marangu: The “Coca-Cola” Route

Located in the Moshi District, the town of Marangu is regarded as the original Mount Kilimanjaro route. Over time, it has been seen as the original gateway and is regarded as the easiest route to take. 

Unlike other Kilimanjaro routes where you will stay in tent camps, this path is the only one with a hut for accommodation. Amenities are also offered, such as Coca-Cola products, hence its nickname.

This route is preferred by novices, first-time visitors, and people who may not be able to withstand the challenges faced higher up. Favoured by tourists, it can get busier than the others. The wonders are well worth seeing, though.

Since you can do the route in one day, and utilize the same path to go up and down, you can take your time and fully appreciate the views that Africa has to offer in this wonderful ecosystem. However, by exploring this path over several days, you can open your eyes to sights and sounds only previously seen in movies. 

Machame: The “Whiskey” Route

This is a 62-kilometre trek that will take you through diverse landscapes. Its nickname means that it is a little more challenging than the Marangu route (whiskey being stiffer than Coca-Cola, of course).

Favoured by experienced hikers, as well as novice hikers who want more of a challenge, this path takes you to the summit in a way that allows you to slowly acclimate to the thinning atmosphere as you climb higher.

It will take several days to complete this path. You will begin in the lush rainforest and, as you ascend, you will transition from green landscapes to more arid alpine deserts until reaching the glacial landscape making up the summit.

This route offers so much more in the way of beauty and diversity while providing you with a truly immersive experience as you camp in the different ecosystems. Since it is a very well-established route, the paths are more stable, easily seen, and have more support.

The Shira Plateau

Located on the west side of Mount Kilimanjaro is the Shira Plateau. This was once a volcano, but it then collapsed and formed this incredible caldera (volcanic crater).

Offering stunning views and breathtaking settings, this route starts near the Shira Ridge and is one of the original Kilimanjaro routes to the summit. A stunning and varied hike awaits you, as long as you are prepared to begin at a higher elevation.

You arrive via transport and then begin your trek up. The route is harder because you will not have the time to acclimate to the change in elevation. Some people can experience altitude sickness, so be prepared. Accommodation on this route is provided in tents, so pack clothes for colder nights.

Lemosho Glades

Stunning landscapes await the avid hiker who chooses this route. The sights will show you a whole new side to Africa and what it can offer. 

You will begin your adventure in lush green rainforests and then navigate the diverse terrain to walk through moorland until you reach the icy summit itself. Also, this is the only route that provides you with an armed guide.

As it is a less crowded route, it’s perfect for people wanting to explore multiple ecosystems in one hike. You can catch a glimpse of the native forest wildlife, seek out animals that have adapted to the harsh terrain, and marvel at the birds taking flight.

This path is the successor to the Shira route and is often considered to have one of the better success rates in terms of the number of people who successfully reach the summit.

Umbwe: Poa Kichizi Kama Ndizi Kwenye Friji!

The glaciers on the southern side of Mount Kilimanjaro are a sight not to be missed. This path, which features much beautiful and captivating scenery, will intersect other Kilimanjaro routes in various stages.

The saying, “Crazy cool like a banana in the fridge” (poa kichizi kama ndizi kwenye friji) sums up this route. While its beauty may be unrivalled, it is the most challenging path you can take.

Although it is the shortest route at a total of 47.5 kilometres, it will take you up steep inclines and winding, harsh terrain. As well, you will encounter the thinning atmosphere quickly.

The path is divided up into camps, and you can make the hike in about seven days. It is definitely one of the Mount Kilimanjaro routes for the more experienced traveller. Still, you should attempt it at least once in your lifetime.

Contact Zara Tanzania Adventures

Africa is well known for its safaris and ferocious wildlife, so the peacefulness and beauty of the surrounding areas can sometimes be overlooked.

There is so much more to experience. Despite the looming appearance of a forest surrounded by icy mountains, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the few treks that doesn’t require much gear to traverse.

With Zara Tanzania Adventures, you can expect an excellent Kilimanjaro trekking experience, accommodation (in a tent or hut), and expert guides who can show you what the guidebooks simply cannot.


You can call us at 1-866-551-2970 or visit us online and book your next adventure today.

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