Mount Kilimanjaro rises 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level and is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Located in northern Tanzania, Kilimanjaro offers a unique trekking experience that combines diverse ecological zones, dramatic scenery, and personal achievement without the need for technical climbing gear. The mountain draws adventurers from around the globe who seek both the challenge and the reward of reaching Uhuru Peak — Africa’s highest point.
Achieve the highest point in Africa without technical climbing, relying on endurance and acclimatization.
With multiple routes offering different scenery and acclimatization conditions, every climber can choose the path that suits their experience and style.
Trek through rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and alpine tundra to reach the summit.
Engage with Chagga village life, coffee farms, and traditional cultures near the mountain base.
The only route with mountain huts instead of camping, Marangu is often considered the easiest path physically, though its shorter itinerary leads to lower summit success rates. The trail is direct, scenic, and ideal for beginners who prefer comfort and simplicity.
Best for:
• First-time climbers
• Travelers wanting hut accommodation
• Those seeking a shorter itinerary
The most popular route on Kilimanjaro and loved for its beautiful scenery, diverse landscapes, and good acclimatization profile. Machame is more physically demanding than Marangu, with steeper sections, but offers a very high success rate.
Best for:
• Adventurous trekkers
• Climbers wanting great acclimatization
• Those seeking the best summit success chances
Often considered the most beautiful and well-balanced route, Lemosho starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro and joins the Machame route later. It offers excellent acclimatization and a quieter, more wilderness-like experience.
Best for:
• Climbers wanting the highest summit success rate
• People with time for an 8–9 day trek
• Photographers and nature lovers
Rongai is the only route approaching from the north (Kenya side) and is much drier with gentle slopes. It is less crowded, making it a great option during the wet seasons. The scenery is different from all other routes—quiet, remote, and pristine.
Best for:
• Climbers during the rainy season
• Those wanting solitude
• Trekkers who prefer a gradual ascent
The longest and newest official route, Northern Circuit circles around the entire northern slopes. It offers the best acclimatization, near 100% summit success rate, and fewer crowds than other routes.
Best for:
• People wanting the highest success rate
• Experienced hikers
• Those seeking the most scenic and remote experience
The steepest and most direct route, Umbwe is physically demanding and has poor acclimatization. It is only recommended for highly experienced hikers searching for a tough, challenging ascent. Very few climbers choose this route.
Best for:
• Very experienced mountaineers
• Climbers looking for a tough technical challenge
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MONTHS
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SEASON
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CLIMBING CONDITIONS
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RECOMMENDENTIONS
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|---|---|---|---|
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January – February
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Warm, clear skies, short dry season
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Excellent visibility, moderate crowds
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⭐ One of the best times to climb
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March – May
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Long rainy season
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Muddy trails, poor visibility, fewer climbers
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⚠️ Not recommended
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June
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Start of the long dry season
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Cool, clear, excellent trail conditions
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⭐ Very good
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July – August – September
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Peak dry season
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Best weather, highest summit success, busy trails
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🌟 Best months of the year
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October
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End of dry season
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Good weather, fewer crowds
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✔️ Good time to climb
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November
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Short rainy season
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Wet, slippery trails, less visibility
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⚠️ Not ideal
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December
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Mixed weather (some rain)
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Still good close to January season
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✔️ Possible but rainy
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