Discovering Mount Kilimanjaro: A Journey from Tropics to Glaciers

Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain, is also the highest free-standing mountain on the globe. Every year, it draws thousands of adventurers eager to tackle its formidable slopes. Scaling Kilimanjaro is akin to traversing from tropical forests to arctic realms within a week. Despite the challenges posed by altitude and the ascent rate, the experience is deeply fulfilling.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1987, UNESCO recognized Kilimanjaro’s stunning natural beauty by designating it a World Heritage Site. The mountain’s vast height and unique location create a remarkable diversity of vegetation and landscapes. Climbers journey through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife to the icy, glacier-clad summit, aptly called the “Roof of Africa.” Typically, you transition through a different vegetation zone every day and a half during a classic climb.

Summit Triumph

Reaching Kilimanjaro’s peak after days of trekking is an exhilarating achievement. The summit rewards climbers with awe-inspiring views of the African savannah and the Rift Valley, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Your Climb, Your Dream

Dreaming of climbing Kilimanjaro but uncertain of your capabilities? Although demanding, summiting Kilimanjaro is attainable without prior climbing experience, provided you are in good health and physical condition. Our skilled team ensures your safe journey to the top, which is why 95% of our climbers achieve this feat. Proper gear and pre-departure hikes in your home country can significantly enhance your chances. To prevent altitude sickness, allow ample time for acclimatization. Explore the best climbing routes below.

Supporting Kilimanjaro’s Porters

Porters are the backbone of your Kilimanjaro climb, carrying essential supplies and equipment. Their dedication makes your trek possible. Unfortunately, many porters endure poor working conditions. We actively support fair treatment and better conditions for Kilimanjaro porters. By booking your trip with us, you contribute to this vital cause.

Choosing Your Route: Best Route for Climbing Kilimanjaro

Selecting the right route is crucial for your Kilimanjaro climb. Here are the top routes:

  • Machame Route: Popular for its diverse and scenic trail, leading through lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Known for its gradual ascent, enhancing acclimatization and success rates, though it can be crowded.
  • Lemosho Route: Offers varied, breathtaking scenery and fewer climbers. Despite being more expensive, it allows ample time for acclimatization and is highly successful.
  • Marangu Route: The most affordable and shortest route with hut accommodations. It uses the same trail for ascent and descent but offers limited acclimatization time, affecting its success rate.
  • Northern Circuit Route: The longest and one of the most scenic routes, circling the mountain. High success rate due to extended acclimatization period, ideal for those with time and budget.
  • Shira Route: Scenic but challenging, recommended for experienced climbers due to its high starting point and rapid ascent.
  • Rongai Route: Suitable for experienced climbers, with ascent and descent on opposite sides. Offers a quieter, though less scenic, experience with higher costs due to additional transport.
  • Umbwe Route: Known as the steepest and most challenging, with a lower success rate. Best for experienced climbers comfortable with rapid ascents and high altitudes.

Expert Tips

We recommend the Lemosho route for its spectacular views. Fit and well-prepared climbers may also consider the Marangu, Machame, or Northern Circuit routes. Plan for the duration of your climb plus two extra nights for arrival and departure.

Logistics and Best Time to Climb

  • Travel Times:
    • Arusha to Kilimanjaro (start climb): 2.5 hours.
    • Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi: 1.5 hours.
    • Kilimanjaro to Tarangire National Park / Lake Manyara: 4 hours.
    • Kilimanjaro to Ngorongoro: 4.5 hours.
    • Kilimanjaro to Serengeti: 6.5 hours.
    • Arusha Airstrip to Zanzibar, Pemba, or Mafia Island: 2.5 hours.
  • Optimal Climbing Seasons: The best conditions are from June to mid-March, excluding November. February is ideal for its warm temperatures and low rainfall. The rainy seasons in mid-March to June and November offer quieter trails for those seeking solitude.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and conquer Africa’s highest peak, knowing your journey supports a fair treatment of the porters who make it possible.