Best Routes for Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro

Choosing a mountain journey

Explore Kilimanjaro through the Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Umbwe and Northern Circuit routes. Our published trekking packages range from five to nine days.

Compare the route stages and duration, then tell us which itinerary interests you. We'll help you discuss travel dates, accommodation and equipment before you make a decision.

Marangu Route

A hut-based journey from the forest near Marangu Gate through Mandara and Horombo to the open landscape around Kibo Huts. The descent returns along the same route.

May suit trekkers who prefer mountain huts to tented camps and want a clearly established out-and-back trail.

Machame Route

Start in the forest at Machame Gate, cross the Shira landscape and continue towards Lava Tower and Barranco. The published programmes finish with a descent through Mweka.

May suit walkers drawn to changing scenery and a camping itinerary with a different descent trail.

Lemosho Route

The western approach leads from Londorossi Gate and Mti Mkubwa into the open Shira landscape, then continues towards Barranco and the upper mountain.

May suit travellers interested in the western side of Kilimanjaro who can allow seven or eight trekking days.

Rongai Route

Approach from the northern slopes through Rongai Cave and Kikelewa towards Mawenzi Tarn. The itinerary crosses towards Kibo before returning through Horombo and Marangu.

May suit trekkers who want a northern approach, views around Mawenzi and a descent on the southern side.

Umbwe Route

A direct, steep approach from Umbwe Gate leads towards Barranco, Karanga and Barafu. These are the stages available in the current published programme.

May suit experienced trekkers considering a demanding ascent. Confirm the missing final stages with the team before choosing this programme.

Northern Circuit

Begin through Londorossi and Shira, then explore the northern circuit through Moir, Pofu and Rongai Third Cave before the summit stage and Mweka descent.

May suit travellers who can allow the longest trekking programme in our collection and want to explore the northern side.