Kilimanjaro Hikes

Mount Kilimanjaro Approved Routes

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with six unique routes leading to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Each path offers breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable challenges. As Africa’s highest peak and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, Kilimanjaro calls for courage, determination, and preparation. With the right mindset and spirit, you can conquer the mountain and stand triumphantly at Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa.

1) Marangu Route
Also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” the Marangu Route is the oldest and most established path up Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s the only route with permanent huts, offering a more comfortable trekking experience. Known for its shorter itinerary, taking approximately 5-6 days to complete, Marangu is ideal for trekkers seeking a quicker climb. Covering 72 km, the trail passes through lush rainforests and scenic spots like Mandara and Horombo Huts, with views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

2) Lemosho Route
Embark on the scenic Lemosho Route, a 70 km trek starting from Kilimanjaro’s remote western side at Londorossi Gate. This stunning trail offers breathtaking views, rich rainforest wildlife, and fewer crowds as it winds through the Shira Plateau, alpine deserts, and dramatic landscapes like the Barranco Wall. Highlights include Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp), panoramic sunsets, and an unforgettable journey that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a true sense of wilderness. This route takes approximately 8 days to complete.

3) Machame Route
The Machame Route is known as the “Whiskey Route,” it is scenic and challenging, taking approximately 7 days to complete. Starting on the southern side, the 62 km trek passes forests, moorlands, and landmarks like the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and Barranco Wall. Its gradual ascent allows for good acclimatization, making it ideal for reaching Uhuru Peak.

4) Rongai Route
A quieter and more scenic trail on Kilimanjaro’s remote northeastern side, starting near the Kenyan border. Ideal for those seeking solitude and fewer crowds, Rongai offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife including forest elephants, and a gradual ascent through farmlands, pine forests, and alpine desert. This 6–7 day trek is perfect for beginners or those looking to avoid tougher trails, especially during the rainy season when its northern approach remains drier. With campsites under the stars, peaceful surroundings, and a final push to the summit via Mawenzi Tarn and Hans Meyer Cave, Rongai delivers a unique and rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.

5) Shira Route
The Shira Route is a scenic, less-crowded western approach to Kilimanjaro, ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and high-altitude adventure. Starting near Shira Gate, it climbs quickly across dramatic alpine landscapes and joins the Lemosho Route at Shira Camp. Though challenging due to its rapid ascent, it offers breathtaking views, rare vegetation, and a spectacular summit sunrise above the clouds, taking approximately 7-8 days to complete.

6) Umbwe Route
For experienced adventurers seeking a thrilling challenge, the Umbwe Route is the most direct and dramatic path to Kilimanjaro’s summit. Known for its steep, demanding ascent and limited acclimatization time, this trail is ideal for fit climbers ready to push their limits. As the least-traveled and most visually stunning route, it offers breathtaking views of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall. While it’s considered one of the toughest routes with lower success rates, its raw beauty and intensity attract determined trekkers looking for a truly unforgettable climb. This route takes approximately 5-7 days to complete.

Mount Meru

Towering at 4,566 meters (14,980 ft), Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak. Located in Arusha National Park, this stratovolcano offers a challenging yet rewarding trek through diverse landscapes and rich wildlife habitats.
What to Expect:

• The Mount Meru trek typically takes 4 days/3 nights, following the Momella Route. Unlike Kilimanjaro, this trek requires an armed ranger escort, as the trail winds through Arusha National Park, home to buffalo, giraffes, warthogs, colobus monkeys, and more. The journey begins in lush rainforest, ascends through heath and moorland, and finishes with an exhilarating ridge walk to the summit, Socialist Peak, just before sunrise.
• Highlights
• Stunning views of Kilimanjaro at sunrise from the summit
• Crater rim walk offering dramatic views into the ash cone and surrounding plains
• Excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, especially on day one
• Far fewer crowds compared to Kilimanjaro, offering a more intimate trekking experience
• A great acclimatization hike for those planning to tackle Kilimanjaro afterwards

Good to Know

• Start Point: Momella Gate, Arusha National Park
• End Point: Momella Gate
• Distance: Approximately 45–50 km round trip
• Altitude: 4,566m / 14,980 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Accommodations: Mountain huts along the route (no camping required)
• Included: Park fees, guide, ranger, porters, meals, hut accommodation, transport from Arusha
• Not included: Tips, personal gear, travel insurance, visa, flights
• Best time to hike: June to October and December to February (dry seasons)

Mount Meru may not have Kilimanjaro’s fame, but it offers a dramatic climb, striking scenery, and a strong sense of solitude.

Mount Oldonyo Lengai

Rising dramatically from the Great Rift Valley floor, Mount Oldonyo Lengai (meaning “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language) is an active volcano unlike any other in the world. At 2,962 meters (9,718 feet), this sacred mountain offers one of Tanzania’s most challenging and rewarding hikes; perfect for experienced trekkers and adventurous souls.

Oldonyo Lengai is a steep overnight climb that begins around midnight to reach the summit by sunrise. The terrain is rugged and exposed, with loose volcanic ash and rock underfoot. While not high in altitude compared to Kilimanjaro or Meru, the intensity of the ascent, the heat, and the technical nature of the trail make it a serious challenge. The reward? Watching the sun rise over the Ngorongoro Highlands, Lake Natron, and the surrounding Rift Valley is nothing short of breathtaking.
You’ll also witness the only active carbonatite volcano in the world, which sometimes emits lava that’s uniquely cool and fast flowing, an eerie and unforgettable sight.

Good to know:

• Elevation: 2,962 m (9,718 ft)
• Duration: 1 Day / 1 Night (midnight hike + descent in the morning)
• Difficulty: Challenging – steep and strenuous
• Start/End Point: Engaresero village, near Lake Natron
• Fitness Level: High – for fit hikers with trekking experience
• Included: Local guide, village fees, transport, snacks/water
• Not included: Accommodation before/after hike, gear, tips, travel insurance, flights, visas.