Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—but your chances of reaching the summit largely depend on which route you choose. When determining the best route to climb Kilimanjaro, it’s essential to understand that there are seven established routes to Uhuru Peak, each with unique characteristics, success rates, scenery, and levels of difficulty. Moreover, knowing which path to take is crucial for maximizing your summit success and enjoying Tanzania’s legendary peak.

Overview of Routes to Climb Kilimanjaro

When evaluating which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro, consider these key factors: Eight main Kilimanjaro routes climb to the summit of the “roof of Africa”. Those are: Lemosho (Shira route), Machame, Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Umbwe, Kilema, and Western Breach

Route	Duration	Approximate Success Rate	Key Features
Northern Circuit	8–9 days	95%	Highest summit success, least crowded
Lemosho	7–8 days	85–90%	Panoramic views, high success
Machame	6–7 days	85–90%	Most popular, very scenic
Rongai	6–7 days	70–85%	Drier, quiet, north-side approach
Marangu	5–6 days	50–65%	Hut accommodation, busiest
Shira	6–7 days	75–85%	High-altitude start, remote
Umbwe	5–7 days	Low	Steepest, most challenging

In addition, there are different itineraries available for most routes. For example, there are 6, 7, and 8-day variations for the Lemosho route. Each of those variations offers a slightly different acclimatization profile. While the choice between a shorter and a longer itinerary might seem trivial, the longer itineraries typically offer much higher success rates due to better acclimatization. If you’re looking to embark on a Kilimanjaro climb and are not sure which route and itinerary is right for you, here we will guide you through every route’s unique advantages and disadvantages.

Top Routes to Climb Kilimanjaro: Rankings and Analysis

1. Northern Circuit Route – The Best Route to Climb Kilimanjaro for Success

The Northern Circuit consistently ranks as the top choice for several compelling reasons:

• Highest success rate (up to 95%) among all Kilimanjaro routes
• Longest duration (8–9 days), consequently offering excellent acclimatization
• Superb for avoiding crowds and enjoying solitude during your climb
• Panoramic circling of the mountain with diverse scenery throughout the journey
• Best suited for trekkers wanting maximum summit chances and peaceful experience

Furthermore, this route provides the most comprehensive climbing experience, making it ideal for those prioritizing success over speed.

2. Lemosho Route – Best Route to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro for Scenery

The Lemosho route stands out as an excellent option for nature enthusiasts:

• Most beautiful landscapes with varied ecosystems and stunning vistas
• High summit success (85–90%) thanks to gradual altitude gain
• 7–8 days recommended for optimal results and proper acclimatization
• Less crowded in initial days, subsequently joining Machame midway
• Perfect for photographers wanting spectacular views and steady ascent

Additionally, many climbers consider Lemosho the ideal balance of beauty and success rates.

3. Machame Route (“Whiskey Route”) – Popular Choice Among Routes to Climb Kilimanjaro

When exploring the best route to climb Kilimanjaro, the Machame route offers several advantages:

• Most popular path (chosen by ~45–50% of climbers)
• Scenic variety that passes through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert
• Good climb high, sleep low profile that fosters higher success on 7-day itinerary (85%+)
• Can be crowded, especially during peak season, however it remains well-established

Nevertheless, despite the crowds, many choose Machame for its balanced approach and proven track record.

4. Rongai Route – Best Route to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Rainy Season

The Rongai route presents unique advantages for specific conditions:

• Driest path, therefore ideal for rainy season treks
• Northern approach offering unique scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities
• Quiet trail with less busy camps compared to popular southern routes
• 7-day itinerary success rate up to 85%, making it a solid choice

Consequently, for those climbing during challenging weather, Rongai provides reliable conditions and may be the best route to climb Kilimanjaro during certain seasons.

5. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola Route”) – The Comfort Option

While not always the top choice for success rates, Marangu offers unique benefits:

• Only route with hut accommodation instead of camping
• Shortest schedule (5–6 days), but unfortunately lower success due to poor acclimatization
• Busiest trail, with both ascent and descent on the same path
• Considered easiest in trail gradient, though not necessarily for summit success

However, for those prioritizing comfort over camping, this provides the most convenient option, though it’s rarely considered the best route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro for summit success.

6. Shira Route – The High-Altitude Start

The Shira route shares similarities with other premium options:

• Nearly identical to Lemosho after early stages
• High-altitude beginning poses risk of immediate altitude sickness
• Suitable only for experienced trekkers familiar with high-altitude environments

Therefore, while offering spectacular views, it’s recommended primarily for seasoned mountaineers.

7. Umbwe Route – The Expert Challenge

The Umbwe route represents the most difficult option:

• Steepest, shortest “direct” ascent that’s challenging and demanding
• Low success rate with highest risk among all Kilimanjaro paths
• Not recommended for most trekkers, especially beginners

Consequently, this route appeals only to very experienced mountaineers seeking maximum difficulty.

Success Rates: Which is the Best Route to Climb Kilimanjaro?

When comparing routes to climb Kilimanjaro, success rates clearly indicate optimal choices:

Route	Typical Itinerary	Success Rate
Northern Circuit	9 days	95%
Lemosho	8 days	90%
Machame	7 days	85–90%
Rongai	7 days	85%
Marangu	6 days	~65%
Umbwe	6 days	<60%

Importantly, longer itineraries significantly improve success rates due to better acclimatization, which is crucial when determining the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for your needs.

What is the easiest route to climb Kilimanjaro?

The main challenge on Mount Kilimanjaro is not the steep slopes or long daily hikes, but the altitude. So, itineraries that offer the best acclimatization profiles might be considered the “easiest”. Perhaps, we can again highlight Lemosho 7-8, Rongai 7, with Machame 7 and Northern Circuit following close.

Lemosho route 7-day itinerary is the most accessible route on Mount Kilimanjaro for several reasons. Beginning at an elevation of 3500 meters, it eliminates the need for ascending to that altitude during the trek. Short initial daily hikes prevent overexertion, so your body can focus on adapting to the altitude. All overnight stays are at 3500 meters or above, also facilitating better acclimatization. Additionally, the route from the Barafu Camp to the summit is the shortest, saving approximately an hour in travel time.

The Northern Circuit offers great acclimatization due to more days spent on the mountain, but it is more suitable for hikers who are prepared for longer treks every day. For beginners, the above-mentioned Lemosho, Rongai and Machame might be easier options with a higher chance of summitting. If you feel that you need extra time for rest and acclimatization, it’s possible to add an extra acclimatization day at any of the camps to your itinerary.

Which Kilimanjaro route has the least crowds?

Rongai and Northern Circuit are famous for having the least crowds. The first days of Umbwe will also spoil you with serene landscapes free from large groups of hikers.

A useful tip is to avoid peak seasons – July to September, and January to February. The best time to climb to avoid crowds is just before or after the high seasons – like the first part of March, the beginning of June, or the end of October – when the weather is still good, but there are much fewer climbers on the trails.

 

Choosing the Best Route to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro by Travel Style

Selecting the right option among routes to climb Kilimanjaro depends on your specific priorities:

• For highest summit success: Northern Circuit Route
• For scenic beauty: Lemosho Route, followed closely by Machame
• For comfort and hut accommodation: Marangu Route
• For solitude and unique approach: Northern Circuit or Rongai Route
• For experienced climbers seeking challenge: Umbwe Route

Furthermore, understanding your priorities helps determine which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for your climbing goals.

Optimal Timing for Your Best Route to Climb Kilimanjaro

Regardless of which route you consider the best route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, timing matters significantly. The ideal months for climbing are January to early March, and June through October, when weather conditions are most favorable and skies are clear. During these periods, all routes to climb Kilimanjaro offer better conditions and higher success rates.

Final Recommendations

After analyzing all available options, several key conclusions emerge:

Northern Circuit stands out as the premier choice for its exceptional combination of success rate, scenery, and solitude. Moreover, it consistently delivers the highest summit success rates.

Lemosho proves ideal for trekkers seeking stunning views and excellent acclimatization, making it another top contender when determining the best route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Machame represents an excellent balance of popularity, scenery, and accessibility, provided you’re prepared for crowds during peak seasons.

Additionally, all Kilimanjaro routes require thorough preparation, appropriate itinerary length, and realistic assessment of your fitness and altitude tolerance.

Finally, choose the path that best matches your goals, available timeframe, and climbing experience. For most adventurers, the best route to climb Kilimanjaro features sufficient days for proper acclimatization and gradual altitude gain. Ultimately, success depends on selecting a route that safely guides you to Uhuru Peak while providing an unforgettable African mountain experience.