Which Kilimanjaro Route Should I Choose?

Reuben February 10, 2025Adventure Tours

Choosing the right route up Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your climb. Each route offers a unique experience — from scenery and crowd levels to acclimatization and accommodations. At African Giant Adventures, we help you match the best route to your fitness level, schedule, budget, and goals.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular Kilimanjaro routes we offer:

Machame Route – “The Scenic Route”

• Duration: 6–7 days

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Success Rate: High (with proper acclimatization)

• Accommodation: Tents

The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is the most popular and visually stunning. You’ll pass through five distinct climate zones — from lush rainforest to alpine desert and glacial summit. It has excellent acclimatization due to its “climb high, sleep low” profile, which increases summit success rates.

Ideal for: Fit trekkers seeking great scenery, moderate crowds, and a high chance of summit success.

Lemosho Route – “The Wild and Quiet Route”

• Duration: 7–8 days

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Success Rate: Very high

• Accommodation: Tents

The Lemosho Route is considered one of the best overall routes for both scenery and acclimatization. Starting from the western side of the mountain, it offers quiet trails, rich biodiversity, and panoramic views. Because of the extra days on the mountain, trekkers adjust better to the altitude.

Ideal for: Those looking for a less crowded, more remote route with maximum acclimatization time.

Marangu Route – “The Coca-Cola Route”

• Duration: 5–6 days

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Success Rate: Lower due to rapid ascent

• Accommodation: Huts (only route with dorm-style sleeping shelters)

The Marangu Route is the only route with hut accommodation, making it a good option for climbers who want to avoid camping. However, it’s also the busiest and least scenic and has a lower summit success rate due to the shorter acclimatization period.

Ideal for: Those looking for the comfort of huts, a shorter itinerary, or during the rainy season.

So… Which Route is Best for You?

• Limited on time? Choose Marangu (5–6 days)

• Want a good balance of beauty and challenge? Choose Machame

• Need more time to acclimatize or want solitude? Choose Lemosho

Our team at African Giant Adventures will guide you through the decision-making process based on your preferences and trekking history.

Let’s Plan the Perfect Climb Together

We’re based in USA River, Arusha — just a short drive from Kilimanjaro National Park — and our expert team is ready to help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.