OVERVIEW

Mount Kilimanjaro is vast. It is 5,895 meters in height, and has topographic isolation of 5,510 kilometers. It’s one of the best and adventurous climbing places in the world. There are five distinct climate zones which vary as you go from one area to another. Rocky Mountains to green pasture lands to snow caps, Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing has got it all covered.

The size not only influences the variety of conditions found in different parts of it, but it also has a direct impact on how to climb it and indirectly on how much it will cost you and what the scenery you’ll be seeing along the way. There are six distinct Kilimanjaro Routes which are different from one another. These are:

Marangu Route:

It’s the major climbing route because it’s the only one that offers hut accommodation. It is also referred sarcastically as Tourist Route or Coca-Cola Route simply because it’s the route tourists prefer and it is easy and you can find Cola-Cola and snacks in the huts along the route. It’s a comfortable walking path and has a gradual steady slope.

Rongai Route:

Following this route, you can easily approach and climb Kilimanjaro from the north with a high success rate. It is relatively less crowded and one can see great scenery and wilderness with possibility of wildlife.

Machame Route:

Also referred to as the Whiskey Route, it’s the most popular climbing route with higher success rate than Marangu. The Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and The Barranco Wall just add on to the landscapes you’ll be witnessing along the journey. There are a lot of valleys and ridges with ups and downs and hence can be tiring for first timers.

Shira Route:

This route actually joins in Machame Route after you start your expedition from west of Kilimanjaro. You have the option of start by walk or by vehicle till you reach Machame.

Lemosho Route:

Just like Shira Route, it approaches Kilimanjaro from west and joins in on Machame. It is mostly followed by professionals or people with experience and who want to enjoy better wilderness.

Umbwe Route:

Not technically a route, but is very direct and very steep. This is the most demanding and difficult route to the mountain.