Shira Route

Shira Route

The Shira Route is a less commonly used trail that commences near Shira Ridge. It is almost identical to the Lemosho route, with the exception that Shira was the original trail and Lemosho is the upgraded version.

While Shira is an attractive and diverse route, it is not as favorable as its successor because it has a relatively high-altitude starting point which is quickly accessed by vehicle. 

Climbers may experience altitude-related symptoms on the first day while camping at 3,505m/11,500 feet. The Shira route has several variations and can be done in 6, 7, or 8 days.

Facts:

Travel Tips
  • Choose longer days of the trek as your body needs time to adjust with the high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Trekking poles will become your best friend on the harsh trails.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Choose the dry season to experience your trek the most.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
Uniquiness
  • The starting point of the route is the Shira Ridge.
  • The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west
  • The route is quite similar to the Lemosho route
  • The Shira route is considered moderate but starts at a high altitude of 11,500 feet, posing immediate challenges for climbers who can't acclimate quickly.
Geography

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, starting with a long drive from Moshi to Shira Ridge. The vehicle bypasses the rainforest zone, and the hiking trail begins on Shira Ridge. The Shira route crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east in a pleasant, relatively flat hike, before traversing beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit. The summit is reached from Barafu. The descent is made via the Mweka route.

Weather

The weather of Kilimanjaro is unpredictable throughout the year. The temperature on the mountain varies widely depending upon the altitude.

June to October to the beginning of March offers the best time to climb the mountain.

Different climatic zones offer different atmospheres. The temperatures and precipitation levels and vegetation drops as hikers move to a high altitude.

As the weather varies, so the hikers should be ready to experience the hot, wet or cold conditions at any time while on the mountain.

What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Shira Route?

The Limited availability of data makes it difficult to establish the success rates for the Shira route. However, based on the information at our disposal, a success rate of 65% is estimated for the 6-day Shira route, 75% for the 7-day Shira route, and 90% for the 8-day Shira route.

Pro & Cons
  • Stunning views
  • Varying landscapes and hiking terrain
  • Quieter than other routes near the start
  • Poor acclimatization at the start due to the high starting point.
  • Skips the beautiful forest section that Lemosho has.

Shira Route Packages

Marangu Route

Marangu Route

The Marangu route is the oldest and most established path to climb Kilimanjaro. It’s also known as the ‘Coca-Cola’ route. Many trekkers prefer this route because it offers a gradual slope and is the most straightforward trail on the mountain. The route is the only one that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations. Mandara and Kibo Huts each have 90 bunk beds, and Horombo Hut has 120 bunk beds. Guests are provided with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms. The washrooms range from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut. It takes only five days to complete the climb using this route.

However, this route’s success rate is pretty low due to acclimatization issues. Using a longer route will help your body adjust better to the mountain’s environmental conditions. The short time frame of this route makes acclimatization more difficult. This trail approaches from the southeast and is less scenic than other tracks as it has the same ascent and descent path.

Facts:

Travel Tips
  • Choose longer days of the trek as your body needs time to adjust with the high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Trekking poles will become your best friend on the harsh trails.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Choose the dry season to experience your trek the most.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
Uniquiness
  • The Marangu route is the only one that starts from the southeast side of the mountain.
  • The route is the only route providing hut facilities to the trekkers.
  • It allows a comfortable trekking.
  • The huts are well-equipped with bunk beds and very comfortable mattresses.
Geography

The Marangu route approaches the mountain from the south, passing south of Mawenzi before crossing to the desolate Saddle and heading to Kibo Hut. The ascent to the summit on this route is conducted via the Normal Marangu Route, an arduous scree slope that culminates in arriving at Gilman Point on the crater rim.

Weather
  • The weather of Kilimanjaro is unpredictable throughout the year. The temperature on the mountain varies widely depending upon the altitude.
  • June to October to the beginning of March offers the best time to climb the mountain.
  • Different climatic zones offer different atmosphere. The temperatures and precipitation levels and vegetation drop as hikers move to a high altitude.
  • As the weather varies, so the hikers should be ready to experience the hot, wet or cold conditions at any time while on the mountain.
What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route?

The success rate of climbing the mountain depends on the duration of your climb. When considering all operators, it is estimated that 5-day Marangu climbs have a success rate of approximately 50%, while 6-day Marangu climbs have a success rate of around 70%. However, our 5-day Marangu route has a higher success rate of approximately 70-75%, and our 6-day Marangu route has an even higher success rate of approximately 80-85%.

Pro & Cons
  • Marangu is the only route providing the dormitory-style accommodations throughout the climb.
  • Marangu is the shortest route up Kilimanjaro.
  • The route is perfect for first-time climbers.
  • Follows the climb high and sleep low profile.
  • As the route is shorter, so offers poor acclimatization.
  • Less scenic as compared to the other routes.
  • Despite being the easiest route, the success rate is low.

Marangu Route Packages

Lemosho Route

Lemosho Route

Lemosho Route has the success rate of almost 95% as it has a longer itinerary for Kilimanjaro Climbing. The Lemosho Route starts from the West at the Londorossi gate at a height of 2360 metres from the sea level. The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route is an improved version of old Shira route.

Lemosho Route is one of the most preferred routes compared to other routes and it starts through a lush forest and continues towards Shira plateau. Most of the tour operators recommend a minimum of 7 days attempt to this route but 8- or 9-days attempt would be preferred for higher acclimatization and a successful summit. You must try this route on your Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Approaching from the west, Lemosho Route joins the Machame route during the Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing expedition. The route is longer route, so the trekkers are needed to be physically fit. Due to longer route, you can get plenty of time for acclimatization. It is recommended to take 8 days for a successful summit. The success rate is 80 to 85%. Due to good profile for acclimatization, the difficulty level is medium.

Facts:

Travel Tips
  • As the route is longer, hikers need to make them physically fit
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • The dry season between August and October then January and March is most suitable for hikers for a good experience.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Drink lots of water and eat healthy food.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
Uniquiness
  • The Lemosho route is the most beautiful route presenting panoramic vistas.
  • This rising traverse on the most appealing route on the mountain is designed with maximum acclimatization and summit success in mind.
  • As a longer route, it offers more time to acclimatize, and gives the highest success rate.
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Geography

The Lemosho route begins from the lush and fertile rainforest, which is the first ecological zone you will encounter on Kilimanjaro. The route then leads across the Shira Plateau, which used to be Kilimanjaro's third peak before it collapsed. You will also see the Lava Tower before descending into Barranco Valley, which is one of the most beautiful areas of the entire trail. After crossing the Barranco Wall, you will attempt to reach the summit from Barafu. This is the coldest and breeziest section of your entire adventure.

Weather

The weather conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro are unpredictable. However, the Lemosho Route generally avoids extreme winter or summer weather. Instead, it encounters dry and wet seasons. The amount of rainfall exhibits significant variation depending on the altitude, with the rainforest zone receiving up to 2100 mm per year and the summit zone receiving less than 120 mm per year. It is noteworthy that daily temperature changes may be unanticipated due to the variation in altitude.

What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is the recommended route for reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro. It boasts a high success rate of 95% compared to other routes. However, the number of days spent on the mountain can impact your chances of success. For all operators combined, 6-day Lemosho climbs have a success rate of around 65%, while 7-day Lemosho climbs have a success rate of about 85%, and 8-day Lemosho climbs have a success rate of approximately 90%. Our success rate for 8-day Lemosho climbs has historically ranged between 90-95%.

Pro & Cons
  • The rainforest trail is a wonderful experience for the trekkers.
  • The trek is a slow, gentle trek, making it a wonderful way to acclimatise and, therefore, the success rate is high on this route.
  • As the route merges with Machame, so the trek is not solitary and offers a good opportunity to meet with other trekkers.
  • As a longer route, it is a little expensive
  • It can be busy and crowded in peak season

Lemosho Route Packages

Northern Circuit Route

Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit Route is widely considered as one of the best Kilimanjaro climbing routes. As the longest and newest route, it provides an excellent acclimatization profile, resulting in the highest Kilimanjaro success rate. Kilele Climb highly recommends this route to climbers seeking to summit Kilimanjaro.

Facts:

Northern Circuit Route Packages

Travel Tips
  • Choose longer days of the trek as your body needs time to adjust with the high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Trekking poles will become your best friend on the harsh trails.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Choose the dry season to experience your trek the most.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
Uniquiness

The Northern Circuit route is renowned for its breathtaking and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's northern slopes, making it an ideal option for trekkers who seeking to explore the region's rare and less-visited landscapes. This route is meticulously designed with a focus on optimal acclimatization and increased summit success rates. Unlike other routes, this route offers an extended duration for acclimatization, which translates to higher chances of reaching the summit successfully. In addition, the route is well-known for its superior acclimatization profile and is thus highly recommended for those seeking a successful and safer summit experience.

Geography

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. The first two days involve trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge, followed by crossing the Shira Plateau. After that, the route heads north and circles clockwise from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp to School Hut, before summiting from the east. The descent is made via the Mweka route.

Weather
  • The weather of Kilimanjaro is unpredictable throughout the year. The temperature on the mountain varies widely depending upon the altitude.
  • June to October to the beginning of March offers the best time to climb the mountain.
  • Different climatic zones offer different atmosphere. The temperatures and precipitation levels and vegetation drop as hikers move to a high altitude.
  • As the weather varies, so the hikers should be ready to experience the hot, wet or cold conditions at any time while on the mountain.
What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route?

The success rate of climbing the mountain depends on the duration of your climb. The Northern Circuit Route is one of the most successful routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, with a success rate of 98%. It approaches the mountain from the south and offers the longest and most scenic route, with a 360-degree view of the beautiful scenery. Climbing to the summit via this route takes about 8 to 9 days. The Northern Circuit route is longer than the other routes and provides better acclimatization by staying at similar altitudes for a longer duration. This is why it has a higher success rate compared to other routes, with a success rate of over 95% to 98%.

Pro & Cons
  • Offers one of the highest summit success rates.
  • Highly recommended for scenic value.
  • The trek can be completed in 8 to 9 days. 9 days is mostly recommended for better acclimatization.
  • Offers walk high and sleep low profile, so great for acclimatization.
  • As the route is longer, trekkers can experience trekking fatigue
  • The route is more expensive than other routes

Rongai Route

Rongai Route

The Rongai route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, which is also close to the Kenya border. It is also the only route which has lesser crowds but offers amazing views at the same time.

Rongai is the preferred route compared to other routes for those looking for an alternative to other popular Kilimanjaro Routes, for those who would like a more remote Kilimanjaro Climb, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season as the northern circuit has lesser rainfall. The Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route is the dry season

The Kilimanjaro Rongai Route has more slope than other Kilimanjaro routes. As there isn’t an opportunity to climb high and sleep low for the six-day option, you can pick the seven day one for an extra day of acclimatization at Mawenzi Tarn Camp which we ‘d highly recommend.

Facts:

Travel Tips
  • Choose longer days of the trek as your body needs time to adjust with the high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Trekking poles will become your best friend on the harsh trails.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Choose the dry season to experience your trek the most.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
Uniquiness
  • Rongai Route draws lower traffic and an easier route compared to those on the southern slopes.
  • The gradual ascent terrain allows great acclimatization opportunities.
  • The trek is a great opportunity to see diverse vegetation and wide-eyed views especially from higher camps.
  • Rongai route offers a camping trip.
  • On Rongai Route, the routes are short and less demanding.
  • The peak can be reached in 6 days. But 7 days is normally recommended.
Geography

On the first day, the trail leads towards the corn and potato fields, and then it moves through the forest that is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey. After that, the trekking continues through the moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The landscape undergoes a dramatic change in the Alpine Desert zone. The unique landscapes offer stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi.

Weather

The weather of Kilimanjaro is unpredictable throughout the year. The temperature on the mountain varies widely depending upon the altitude.

June to October to the beginning of March offers the best time to climb the mountain.

Different climatic zones offer different atmospheres. The temperatures and precipitation levels and vegetation drop as hikers move to a high altitude.

As the weather varies, so the hikers should be ready to experience the hot, wet or cold conditions at any time while on the mountain.

What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route?

The Rongai Route boasts a success rate of 80% to 85% for the standard 6-day itinerary, while the success rate climbs to 90% for the 7-day itinerary.

For those seeking to conquer the highest peak in Africa, Uhuru Kilele Climb offers the opportunity to fulfil this dream. With a 98% Kilimanjaro success rate and having assisted over 1200+ clients in reaching the summit, Kilele Climb is widely regarded as the most reputable operator on Mt. Kilimanjaro. Our Kilimanjaro Climb Packages are comprehensive, including accommodation, food, camping equipment, transport, and all park and campsite fees. Our guided tours of Mount Kilimanjaro are highly recommended and offer an exceptional experience for those seeking to summit this iconic peak.

Pro & Cons
  • Rongai is the only route approaching Kilimanjaro from the northern part.
  • The trail is calm with panoramic views of nature.
  • The summit achievement rate is high
  • The route is ideal for those who are not confident in their ability to hike steeper paths
  • The drive is lengthy from the starting point.
  • If compared to other routes, Rongai offers less scenic views.

Rongai Route Packages

Machame Route

Machame Route

Machame Route is also known as “Whiskey Route”. It also offers only fully catered camping or tent during your Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing. It approaches from south-west of Mount Kilimanjaro and descends through Mweka Gate. This route gives more time to recover and chances for “climb high and sleep low”. So, the success rate is 85%. It takes 6 to 7 days to reach for the summit. For a successful summit, you can take 7 days for better acclimatization. Machame Route is more challenging than Rongai and Marangu route.


Among the important Kilimanjaro FAQ’s raised by our clients we are often asked about the scenic beauty of this route. This route offers the most stunning picturesque views which include rain forests, the Shira Plateau, the Lava Tower, and the Barranco Wall. While descending on Mweka the route, you can enjoy a spectacular view of natural scenery. This route is a popular choice among hikers who are aiming for the summit.

Facts:

Travel Tips
  • Choose longer days of the trek as your body needs time to adjust with the high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Trekking poles will become your best friend on the harsh trails.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Choose the dry season to experience your trek the most.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
Uniquiness
  • Machame route offers the most scenic vistas.
  • Machame is the only route offering fully cratered camping.
  • Its climb high, sleep low opportunity provides good acclimatization for trekkers.
  • The four diverse climatic zones of Machame is challenging with scenic views.
  • The route receives more trekkers for its scenic beauty.
Geography

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a short drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. The path then leads hikers through the rainforest to the Shira Plateau, where numerous routes to Kilimanjaro converge. Subsequently, the route veers towards the east and passes beneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field on the Southern Circuit path before ascending to the summit from Barafu. The descent is then made via the Mweka route.

Weather
  • The weather of Kilimanjaro is unpredictable throughout the year. The temperature on the mountain varies widely depending upon the altitude.
  • June to October to the beginning of March offers the best time to climb the mountain.
  • Different climatic zones offer different atmosphere. The temperatures and precipitation levels and vegetation drop as hikers move to a high altitude.
  • As the weather varies, so the hikers should be ready to experience the hot, wet or cold conditions at any time while on the mountain.
What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route?

The success rate of climbing the mountain depends on the duration of your climb. When considering all operators, it is estimated that 6-day Machame climbs have a success rate of approximately 50%, while 7-day Machame climbs have a success rate of around 70%. However, our 6-day Machame route has a higher success rate of approximately 70-80%, and our 7-day Machame route has an even higher success rate of approximately 90-95%.

Pro & Cons
  • The success of achievement rate is higher.
  • Highly recommended for scenic value.
  • The trek can be completed in 6 to 7 days. 7 days is mostly recommended for better acclimatization.
  • Offers walk high and sleep low profile, so great for acclimatization.
  • Machame route receives high traffic. So, the route is the busiest route.
  • The route is suited to more adventurous hikers.

Machame Route Packages

Umbwe Route

Umbwe Route

Umbwe Route has a notorious reputation for being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is considered the shortest, steepest, and most direct approach to Uhuru Peak.

The Umbwe Route guarantees an epic, thrilling adventure. It is perhaps the most challenging Kilimanjaro Route. Though it’s a steep uphill climb, the Umbwe route promises some breathtaking views of the ridges.

After the first two days, the hiking trails will merge with the Machame Route and Lemosho Route, leading to the Great Barranco Wall, Karanga Valley, Barafu Camp, and finally, the summit point of Uhuru Peak.

Facts:

Travel Tips
  • Choose longer days of the trek as your body needs time to adjust with the high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Trekking poles will become your best friend on the harsh trails.
  • Take it easy and don’t try to rush to the top and always listen to your guide.
  • Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
  • The amount of Oxygen on the top is only 50% as compared to the amount of Oxygen you are used to have. So, pay attention to your body signals and inform your guide as soon as possible.
  • Choose the dry season to experience your trek the most.
  • If possible, avoid taking pills like Diamox. It may show harmful side effects.
  • Pack the necessary gears and double-check the complete list.
  • Prepare a ‘Kilimanjaro playlist’ to listen to during your hike which helps to break your mental stress and physical exhaustion.
Uniquiness
  • Umbwe route is steep, constant and straight route to the top.
  • The route is the most difficult route to reach the peak of Kilimanjaro.
  • Umbwe is mostly avoided by trekkers due to poor ascent profile.
  • The route takes minimum 6days to complete but 7 days is mostly recommended.
  • Umbwe is not scenically varied as other routes.
  • The route is ideal for those who want a challenging climb.
Geography

The Umbwe route is a direct climb that approaches Kilimanjaro from the south. It is a steep and short route that takes a direct path to the summit. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail turns east and traverses beneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. The descent is made via the Mweka route.

Weather
  • The weather of Kilimanjaro is unpredictable throughout the year. The temperature on the mountain varies widely depending upon the altitude.
  • June to October to the beginning of March offers the best time to climb the mountain.
  • Different climatic zones offer different atmosphere. The temperatures and precipitation levels and vegetation drop as hikers move to a high altitude.
  • As the weather varies, so the hikers should be ready to experience the hot, wet or cold conditions at any time while on the mountain.
What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route?

The success rate of climbing the mountain depends on the duration of your climb. When considering all operators, it is estimated that 6-day Umbwe climbs have a success rate of approximately 60%, while 7-day Umbwe climbs have a success rate of around 90%. However, our 6-day Umbwe route has a higher success rate of approximately 75% to 80%, and our 7-day Umbwe route has an even higher success rate of approximately 90-95%.

Pro & Cons
  • A challenge for seasoned climbers
  • Shorter acclimatization period
  • Stunning views and less crowded
  • Lower summit success rate.
  • Harder climb due to steepness
  • Less scenic

Umbwe Route Packages