Physically the marangu and machame routes are rather different, the main force of kibo’s volcanic activity occurred out towards the west (the machame side) and so machame is steeper (especially in the first day and a half) and more rugged than Marangu. Machame is the most scenic route on the mountain. The traditional Machame route via barafu circumnavigates Kibo’s southern face offering gorgeous views of the mountain and surroundings. 

 

ROUTE DETAILS

Marangu offer relatively low scenic variation and it is largely up and back on the same trail. It is the only non-camping route, with sleeping huts at each overnight stop. As always with mountains, every route has its advantages and drawbacks.

 

ROUTE DETAILS

Lemosho is one of four routes which approach form the west side of the mountain. These routes converge at a junction on the Shira Plateau and continue on the summit.

The Shira six nights trek approaches the junction across the remote Shira Plateau, providing almost three full days of remote walking, away from the traffic of Machame route.

 

ROUTE DETAILS

There is only one route over on the northern side of the mountain, Rongai which is usually a five night climb. The lesser know track may not be quite spectacular as the western routes, but it does usually have far lower traffic than the other five night routes on the mountain. Rongai is the best route for people who are looking for a decent quality experience and are perhaps not absolutely confident about you fitness..

ROUTE DETAILS

The Umbwe route, which is based in the south, is a classic 6 day tour and is by far the most difficult one offered on Kilimanjaro. The first two days are extremely steep, muddy and generally strenuous making it only suitable for well-trained mountaineers. An acclimatization day is rarely offered on the standard programme, but can be added whereby giving the climber an extra day in the Karanga Valley. The descent trail is the same as the Mweka Route.

 

ROUTE DETAILS