Climbing the Roof of Africa

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a high-altitude trek to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain, which rises to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) above sea level. Often called the “Roof of Africa,” it is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.

Unlike many famous peaks, reaching the summit does not require technical mountaineering skills. With proper acclimatization and preparation, most travelers with good general fitness can successfully complete the climb.

5,895m

Elevation

98%

Success Rate

5

Climate Zones

7-8

Avg. Days

Why Climb With Us?

  • Expert WFR certified guides
  • Unlimited bottled oxygen
  • High-quality mountain gear
  • Delicious & nutritious meals
  • Safety-first approach

Kilimanjaro Routes

Kilimanjaro Base Map
Machame Route Map

Machame Route

The Machame hiking trail is the second most popular on Kilimanjaro. It starts in the tropical rainforest on the southern slope of the mountain. Beginners should choose the seven-day option for a better acclimatization profile.

MORE ABOUT MACHAME
Lemosho Route Map

Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic on Kilimanjaro. It offers an excellent acclimatization profile and higher success rates. It begins from the west and joins the Machame route on day three.

MORE ABOUT LEMOSHO
Marangu Route Map

Marangu Route

Known as the "Coca-Cola" route, Marangu is the oldest and most established route. It is the only route that provides hut accommodation, making it popular during the rainy season.

MORE ABOUT MARANGU
Rongai Route Map

Rongai Route

The Rongai route is the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. It is one of the quietest and driest routes, making it a great choice during the wet season.

MORE ABOUT RONGAI
Umbwe Route Map

Umbwe Route

The Umbwe route is the shortest, steepest and most direct route on Kilimanjaro. It is considered very difficult and only suitable for experienced hikers.

MORE ABOUT UMBWE
Northern Circuit Map

Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, offering the best acclimatization and the highest success rate. It circles around the quiet northern slopes.

MORE ABOUT NORTHERN

Our Expedition Packages

6 Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Marangu Route
Tanzania
6 Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Marangu Route
5/5
from $1,850
7 Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Machame Route
Tanzania
7 Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Machame Route
5/5
from $2,100

Success Rates & Planning

Routes like Lemosho, Machame, Rongai, and the Northern Circuit have the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro with itineraries of 7 days or longer. We recommend choosing a 7–8 day climb as the optimal length to give your body enough time to acclimatize and to greatly reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Best Time to Climb

Late December to early March and mid-June to late October are the best times for a Kilimanjaro climb. This is when the Kilimanjaro weather is nearly ideal. Although other months have rain, it doesn't mean there are constant heavy showers.

Training & Preparation

A moderate fitness level is key. You should be able to run 5 km (3 mi) without difficulty and hike 10 km (6+ mi) in a day. Best training includes swimming, cycling, running, and hiking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Kilimanjaro is accessible to beginners with no trekking experience. The key factor isn’t hiking skills but proper acclimatization, which is best achieved on a 7–8-day route.

As of 2026, a comfortable and safe 7-day group climb costs about $3,040. A shorter 5-6-day adventure or a season-discounted trip comes at $2,200-$2,700. This includes park fees (about 35% of total cost).

The easiest way is flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Major airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, KLM, and Ethiopian Airlines offer regular flights.
Quick Facts
First Climb 1889
First Female Ascent 1927
Climate Zones 5 Unique Zones
Status UNESCO Site
Need Help?

Our expert team is based in Tanzania and ready to help you plan your climb.

WhatsApp Us
Expedition Bot
Go Deep Africa Guide
Jambo! I am your Go Deep Africa Expedition Bot. How can I help you plan your dream Tanzanian safari today? 🦁