Climbing Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, stands as a beacon for adventurers and nature lovers. Rising to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, this iconic mountain offers an unparalleled trekking experience that combines challenging ascents, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking views. Here’s everything you need to know about embarking on the journey to the Roof of Africa.
The Routes to the Summit
Mount Kilimanjaro offers several distinct routes to its summit, each providing unique landscapes and varying levels of difficulty. Choosing the right route depends on your experience, fitness level, and the type of adventure you seek.
Marangu Route
Known as the "Coca-Cola" route, Marangu is the oldest and most established path. It features hut accommodations and is considered one of the easier routes, though it has a lower success rate due to its rapid ascent.
Machame Route
The "Whiskey" route is popular for its scenic beauty and higher success rate. This route is more challenging than Marangu but offers diverse landscapes and longer acclimatization periods.
Lemosho Route
Starting from the western side, Lemosho is less crowded and offers stunning panoramic views. It joins the Machame route at Shira Plateau and provides excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Rongai Route
Approaching from the north, Rongai is the only route that starts near the Kenyan border. It is less frequented and provides a quieter trek with a high success rate.
Northern Circuit Route
The longest route, offering a 360-degree journey around the mountain. This path provides maximum acclimatization and stunning views, making it ideal for those seeking a more leisurely and immersive experience.
What to expect on the Trek
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a journey through five distinct ecological zones, each offering unique challenges and experiences.
Rainforest Zone
The trek begins in lush, tropical rainforests filled with diverse flora and fauna. This zone is humid and vibrant, with potential wildlife sightings including monkeys and exotic birds.
Heather and Moorland Zone
As you ascend, the forest gives way to heath and moorland, characterized by giant heathers and unique flora like the endemic giant groundsels. The terrain becomes rockier and the climate cooler.
Alpine Desert Zone
The landscape transforms into a barren, lunar-like desert with sparse vegetation. The temperature varies drastically between day and night, and the high altitude becomes more apparent.
Arctic Zone
The final push to the summit takes you through the arctic zone, characterized by glaciers, ice fields, and the iconic snow-capped peak. The air is thin and cold, and this part of the trek is the most demanding.
Throughout the journey, trekkers can expect long days of hiking, often starting before dawn on summit day to reach Uhuru Peak in time for sunrise. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are crucial for a successful ascent.
Our trekking packing list
Take a look at our packing trekking packing list to make sure you get the right gear for when you want to start your ascent to Tanzania's top mountains
Our Trekking Packing List