Hiking routes on Mount Kilimanjaro are about 5 in number and they include the Machame route, Marangu, Lemosho, Umbwe and Shira.

Machame Route: 

The Machame route on Mount Kilimanjaro takes about 6 to 7 days to hike and is among the popular routes of hiking the mountain. This route is also known for its scenic views during hikes on Mount Kilimanjaro which start from Machame gate. Machame route is also a steep climb and leads hikers through the south western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, and ascends through lush rainforest before reaching the Shira Plateau.  The different zones passed through along the Machame route include moorland and alpine desert, before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak and also passing via the lava tower and Barranco Wall.

Lemosho Route: 

Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro using the Lemosho route takes about 7 to 8 days and is considered one of the longest routes on the mountain. The Lemosho Route has a high success rate due to its gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization opportunities and passes through the zones which include rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic climate zones. Wildlife species can also be seen along the hike on Lemosho route which joins with the Machame Route on day four at Shira Camp 2 and follows the same path to the summit.

Rongai Route: 

Rongai route takes 6 to 8 days to get to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side of the mountain. The route allows for more acclimatization time, which can increase the chances of reaching the summit successfully while passing through forests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. Rongai route is also less crowded and offers an enjoyable hiking experience.

Marangu Route: 

The Marangu route takes about 5 to 6 days to hike on Mount Kilimanjaro and offers comfortable sleeping huts along the way. It is also considered to be an easy route for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and requires a short time for acclimatisation. Hiking starts from Marangu gate on the south eastern side of the mountain. The huts where nights of hiking on Mount Kilimanjaro are spent include the Horombo hut, Kibo hut and the Mandara hut which offer bunk beds and communal dining areas. These huts on Marangu route are powered by solar and also have running water. Climbers are advised to bring their own sleeping bags and warm clothing as temperatures can drop below freezing at night during hikes on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Umbwe Route: 

The Umbwe Route hikes take about 5 to 6 days and is considered one of the most difficult routes due to its steep ascent and lack of acclimatization time.  The route starts at the Umbwe Gate, located on the southern side of the mountain, and ascends through dense rainforest before reaching the moorland and eventually the summit. The Umbwe Route is a shorter route than some of the other popular routes like Machame or Lemosho, but it requires a high level of fitness and experience in hiking at high altitudes. The route is not recommended for beginners or those who have not previously hiked at high altitudes. There are stunning views and a sense of solitude as it is less crowded than other routes during hikes on Mount Kilimanjaro. However, due to its steep ascent, it has a lower success rate compared to other routes.

About Mount Kilimanjaro 

Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular destination for hikers and climbers from all over the world and is located in the northern part of Tanzania. The mountain is also the highest peak in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world at an altitude of 5,895 meters above sea level. Mount Kilimanjaro has of three distinct volcanic cones which include Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira with the highest being Kibo.

Best time for hikes on Mount Kilimanjaro

The climate on Mount Kilimanjaro varies greatly depending on altitude and time of year. At lower elevations, temperatures can be quite warm, while at higher elevations temperatures can drop well below freezing.  The mountain also experiences two rainy seasons each year, from March to May and around November. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro during these months can be more challenging due to wet and slippery conditions on the mountain. The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which runs from late June to October and from December to February. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, making it easier to climb the mountain.

Cost of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be a costly tour but it is once-in-a-lifetime experience that is worth it. On average, the cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 per person. This cost typically includes park fees, camping or hut fees, food and water, transportation to and from the mountain, and the services of a guide and porters. Different tour operators offer tours to Mount Kilimanjaro and the cost of the hikes also varies depending on factors such as the route used for hiking, the number of days spent on the mountain, the time of year, number of hikers among others. Additional expenses of hiking mount Kilimanjaro include flights costs when getting to Tanzania, travel insurance, renting of equipment, necessary vaccinations, and tips for guides and porters.

How to get to Mount Kilimanjaro

The tours to Mount Kilimanjaro can start with pick up from Arusha which is a location where different tours around northern Tanzania begin. From Arusha, the drive to Moshi town which is the closest to Mount Kilimanjaro takes about 2 hours.  During tours around Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro can be accessed by flights to Arusha airport or Kilimanjaro international airport.