Overview:
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Located in northern Tanzania near the Kenya border, it is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain and one of the Seven Summits—making it a top bucket-list climb for adventurers worldwide.
Unlike other major peaks, Kilimanjaro does not require technical climbing, which means many fit and determined trekkers can reach the summit with proper preparation.
There are 7 established routes to the summit, each varying in scenery, duration, difficulty, and success rate:
Route | Duration | Difficulty | Scenery | Success Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Marangu | 5-6 days | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
Machame | 6-7 days | Challenging | Excellent | High |
Lemosho | 7-8 days | Challenging | Very Scenic | Very High |
Rongai | 6-7 days | Moderate | Remote/Northern Side | High |
Shira | 7-8 days | Challenging | Scenic | High |
Umbwe | 5-6 days | Very Difficult | Steep & Scenic | Low |
Northern Circuit | 8-9 days | Longest | Remote & Beautiful | Highest |
Uhuru Peak – The highest point on Kilimanjaro and on the African continent.
Varied Landscapes – Climb through 5 ecological zones: rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit.
Sunrise Summit – Most climbers reach the summit at dawn, witnessing a magical sunrise from the “Roof of Africa.”
Glaciers & Craters – Explore ancient glaciers and the volcanic crater (Rebmann & Furtwängler glaciers).
January–March: Cooler, clearer views, occasional snow on top.
June–October: Dry season, more crowds, warmer temperatures.
Avoid: April–May and November (rainy seasons).
No technical mountaineering experience is required.
Fitness and mental strength are key.
Trekking with a licensed guide is mandatory by Tanzanian law.
Altitude sickness can be a risk — proper acclimatization is essential.
Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport)
Professional mountain guides and porters
Park fees, rescue fees, and camping/hut accommodation
Meals, drinking water, and camping gear
Pre-climb briefing and post-climb celebration