Kilimanjaro, often referred to as the Roof of Africa, towers at a whopping 19,341 feet, making it the highest peak on the continent. Choosing the right path to the top is important, and each route has its own challenges. This guide on climbing Kilimanjaro will help you make the best decision for you.
Do you want a quick but tough climb? Do you want to savour the experience? There’s a path suited to both, but there’s no way around it; you’ll need to prepare yourself mentally and physically for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
You’ve got seven established routes to choose from
Each existing Mount Kilimanjaro route offers a unique experience on the way to the summit, Uhuru Peak. Most of these paths kick off on the mountain’s southern side, except for one that starts on the northern side.
Choosing the right route for you depends on a few things—how much time you’ve got, your fitness level, and how much you’re willing to challenge yourself. Keep reading this guide on climbing Kilimanjaro to make a decision best suited your fitness level and desired experiences.
Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and arguably one of the most exciting ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Unlike most other routes that stick to the southern side of the mountain, the Northern Circuit veers off into the quiet, rarely explored northern slopes. It begins by approaching Kilimanjaro from the west, trekking through rainforests and across the Shira Plateau. Where the other west-approaching routes swing south, the Northern Circuit circles around the mountain’s northern side, avoiding the busier trails.
At nine days, the Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, both in terms of time and distance. The extra time on the mountain is an advantage when it comes to acclimatization. You’ll spend several days trekking at around 13,000 feet, which gives your body plenty of time to adjust to the altitude.
Lemosho Route
Starting on the western slopes of Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route gives you a longer and more gradual ascent than some other trails, which means you’re much more likely to make it to the top in 7 or 8-days.
The Lemosho Route features Cathedral Peak, one of the highest points of the ancient Shira Volcano. Around day two or three, you can take an acclimatisation hike to this viewpoint to help your body adjust to the altitude and see some of the best views on the mountain. The route is known for its unique, otherworldly flora, like the Dendrosenecio Kilimanjari; giant plants which are only found on Kilimanjaro.
Shira Route
The Shira Route is a classic, albeit less popular, trail approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the west. It’s similar to the Lemosho Route in many ways, but some key differences make Lemosho the preferred choice for many climbers. In fact, Shira was the original version of this western approach before Lemosho came along and improved upon it. So why does Shira tend to take a back seat?
The Shira Route skips the rainforest hike that defines the start of Lemosho. Instead, climbers are driven to Shira Gate, which sits at a lofty 11,800 feet near the Shira Ridge. From there, the trek begins at an already high altitude, both a blessing and a curse. While you’ll be treated to sweeping views from the get-go, you also risk experiencing altitude-related symptoms immediately. Spending your first night at Simba Camp, at the same elevation you started, means there’s little chance for your body to adjust gradually. This abrupt exposure to high altitude can be tough for some trekkers, especially those who haven’t had time to acclimatise beforehand.
Despite this challenge, the Shira Route is still a beautiful and varied trail. Once you’ve made it through the first day, the route merges with Lemosho and follows the scenic Southern Circuit with iconic landscapes like the Shira Plateau, the Barranco Wall, and views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.
Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route)
When getting prepared for your trip to Africa, it’s good to know about the most popular way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is also one of the more challenging trails. Starting from the southern side of Kilimanjaro, the Machame Route immediately introduces you to the thick rainforest. It then heads eastward, offering a front-row seat to Kilimanjaro’s towering ice fields.
The challenge of the Machame Route lies in its steeper and longer days. It’s generally recommended for climbers with some hiking or backpacking experience. The terrain can get tough, and the constant elevation gain means you’ll need to be prepared for physical effort and acclimatization. That said, the Machame Route has a high success rate!
Rongai Route
Coming up from the northern side, the Rongai Route is perfect if you’re after a quieter experience with fewer crowds. It’s drier than the southern routes, making it a good option during the rainy season. While the scenery might not be as dramatic as some other paths, you’ll still get a diverse range of landscapes, from barren deserts to alpine forests.
Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route)
The Marangu Route is Kilimanjaro’s most well-established path and the only one that offers hut accommodations instead of tents, making it a bit more comfortable. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it’s considered one of the easier options because of its gradual slope. Though the shorter time frame can make altitude acclimatization a little trickier.
Umbwe Route
If you’re looking for a challenge, the Umbwe Route is one of the steepest and toughest climbs. It’s not for the faint-hearted and should be attempted by experienced trekkers. The route is shorter, which means acclimatization isn’t as good as with the longer routes. However, for thrill-seekers, this is the pick of the bunch.
In conclusion, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure that requires careful planning and the right route choice to match your fitness level and preferences. Whether you seek a shorter, more challenging trek or a scenic, gradual ascent, Kilimanjaro offers something for every adventurer. By understanding the unique features of each route and preparing adequately, you’ll be set for a rewarding experience. Embark on this journey with confidence, and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime. Hope this guide on climbing Kilimanjaro helped you plan your adveture!
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