MOUNT KILIMANJARO
OVERVIEW
A Trip of a Lifetime
At 19,340 ft (5,895 m) Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most accessible high summits, and a beacon for visitors from around the world.
Most climbers reach the top with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing and determination.
The climbers, who reach Uhuru Peak, the actual summit, or Gillman's Point on the rim of the crater, will have earned their climbing certificates and some fantastic memories!
The ascent of the slopes of Kilimanjaro is a tour of five climate zones ranging from tropical rain forest to the arctic zone. Depending on the route you chose, stunning views of Moshi and the Kenyan Plains can be seen along the way.
Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
KILIMANJARO ROUTES
Selecting which route to climb is an important decision to make when preparing for Kilimanjaro.
There are a seven established climbing routes on Kilimanjaro. They are the Machame, Marangu, Rongai, Lemosho, Shira, Umbwe and Northern Circuit Route.
While each route has its own character, some being more difficult, some more lengthy, all routes offer stunning views and there is no single best climb route.
Deciding upon which route is best for you depends on your personal circumstances and preferences including budget, time available, level of fitness and the time of the year.
We accommodate all routes including private "off the beaten track itineraries"
Setting you up for success
The more time you spend hiking and acclimatizing on Mt. Kilimanjaro, the greater your chances to reach the top.
Therefore our climb itineraries include a minimum of six days of hiking.
We will accommodate 5 day treks upon special request.
Our Routes and Itineraries
The Lemosho Route begins in the west at Londorossi Gate. It circles around Kilimanjaro and joins the Machame Route on the third day.
It can be climbed over seven or eight days. (We recommend eight).
It is one of the newer routes on Kilimanjaro but is slowly becoming more popular.
Being one of the longer itineraries is is great for proper acclimatization.
The extended Northern Circuit climb begins on the Lemosho Route. When it reaches Lava Tower it leaves the Lemosho Route and turns north to follow the Northern Circuit.
It is a nine day route and the longest and most remote route on the mountain.
The longer itinerary means the route has a great acclimatization profile. You can naturally "walk high, sleep low" which helps with acclimatization.
The Machame Route begins at Machame Gate at the southern border of the mountain and exits at Mweka Gate, which located east of the starting point.
It can be climbed over six or seven days. (We recommend seven)
It is a popular route and can get busy during high season.
Because it climbs high and sleeps low it is great for acclimatization.
The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north and exits via Marangu on the southern side of Kilimanjaro.
It can be climbed over six or seven days (we recommend seven) and the climb is very gradual.
It is the route less traveled and remains more quiet than other routes.
Because of its northern approach it sees less rain than the southern routes.
The Marangu Route begins and exits at Marangu Gate, on the south-east side of Kilimanjaro.
It is the only route which ascents and descents via the same trail. It is also the only route offering dormitory style sleeping huts.
Busy and fast paced route and can be climbed in five or six days not leaving much time for acclimatization.
Our Kilimanjaro Resources
From the bucket list, to stepping out of the comfort zone to find oneself, there are many different reasons why people decide to climb Kilimanjaro.
Whichever your motive, climbing Kilimanjaro is a unique, demanding and rewarding experience.
However, preparing for Kilimanjaro can be a bit overwhelming to say the least.
The Local Moshi team is your personal resource and available to answer any questions you may have. Starting with your planning process until the conclusion of your journey. We are here for you.