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BEFORE YOU CLIMB
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BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
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ON YOUR CLIMB
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MOUNT KILIMANJARO HIKING ROUTES
Before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s best to know that there are seven established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes all approach from the south of the mountain (Mweka is used only for descent). The Lemosho, Shira and Northern Circuit routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north. The illustrations below depict a three-dimensional view of Kilimanjaro’s climbing routes and a close up of the approaches to the summit.
Which is the best route to climb mount Kilimanjaro
The one question we are asked more often than any other is “which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro”. And the answer depends on what you want. Here are our winners
Highest success rate and overall best route to climb Kilimanjaro
If you want the highest chance of summiting the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best route to climb Kilimanjaro.
Most scenic route to climb Kilimanjaro
The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions.
Quietest route to climb Kilimanjaro
If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb. But be warned the success rate is lower.
Most challenging route to climb Kilimanjaro
If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience the crater camp option is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you- less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it.
Conclusion: Our favourite route
Our favorite out of all routes, considering the scenery, difficulty, and traffic, is a combination of the Lemosho route and the Machame route. The Lemosho route takes around 8 days to trek while the Machame route takes around 7. These routes offer some of the best views of the mountain with less traffic and good acclimatization opportunities. If you need help planning your route, safari or any itineraries for your adventure in Tanzania, contact Debby Adventure and our team of experts will assist you every step of the way.
Our top picks for Best Hiking Tours in Tanzania
Words From Our Happy Clients
We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and We are rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.
Verified
Pim S2019-12-04perfectly arranged experience of a life time We did the Lemosho as a group of 4 people from around 21 years old. From the very first moment we knew that we were in good hands. We were picked up from our lodge which was arranged by Debby Adventures as well. After renting our equipment and meeting the crew, our journey began: we were driving towards the Kilimanjaro. The first day was a hike to the first camp. This hike was mainly in a beautiful jungle scene. The first thing we noticed was the very pleasant way of hiking. Our two guides Anton and Wilfred knew exactly what they did and led the way in an agreeable tempo. After the hike in the wild jungle of Kilimanjaro National Park the night quickly arrived and we were introduced to our personal waiter, Jackson, who brought our food and drinks. Jackson was a great example of the warm and caring staff that joined us on our journey. With an iconic voice and sense of humor he certainly gave a special addition with his presence. That evening we were also introduced to the chef who made food for us every morning, afternoon and evening: Eli. We think that partly because of the excellent food prepared for us, we made it to the peak in such a pleasant fashion. The food was very nutritious and tastful. In the following few days, we made our way up. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking. We did not expect so many different landscapes and views. Every night after dinner, Anton or Wilfred did the daily briefing. This is when we discussed the day and answered some questions about how we were feeling and other health-related questions. Also, every night our oxygen level was measured and we experienced it as professional and pleasant. Speaking of professionality, Anton and Wilfred were the best guides to climb the Kilimanjaro with. Their daily advice, carefulness and knowledge about the mountain could not have been better. Before we knew it, summit night arrived. From base camp to the peak took us 6,5 hours which was pretty tough. But we all made it as a group and we could not be happier. The euphoria of getting to the top is indescribable. After descending Debby took such great care of us which made the experience even more perfect. In conclusion, we would recommend this tour to anyone we know. We are a beautiful life experience richer, thanks to Debby and her crew.VerifiedMasecha2019-03-27An amaizing experience! I have left mount Kilimanjaro with memories that will last a life time with a 6 days Marangu route. It was a great experience, good intro to Mt Kilimanjaro, our guide was super insightful I was impressed with his knowledge of ancient history of Mt Kilimanjaro and all the near places. Everything was planned and organized professionally, Morgan our trip leader was energetic and fun, he looked after us very well.VerifiedBeatrice T2019-03-217 Days Rongai Route with Debby Adventure Before I did the Mount Kilimanjaro trekking (7 days Rongai route) with Debby Adventure, my perception was that not everyone can make it to the top because of the distance, weather conditions and little experience in trekking from people like myself. But when I arrived in Tanzania I jointed a motivated team from Debby Adventure who encouraged and coached me until I made it to the rooftop of Africa. This felt like my dream came true. “Anyone can make it to the rooftop of Africa with such an encouraging team”.VerifiedElicy D2018-11-276DAYS MARANGU ROUTE WITH DEBBY ADVENTURE I did coffee tour and climb Mt. Kilimanjaro for six days via marangu route with debby Adventure. I spent my time effectively to climb mt. Kilimanjaro and to reach in Uhuru Peak for real it was amaizing especially theur guides are kind and funny, excellent in English speaking experienced and hard working. Thanks Debby Adventure I enjoyed to the fullest I promise I will come back with my friends
