Climbing Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro – Journey to the roof of Africa
Kilimanjaro, whose name means ”Mountain of Greatness” in Swahili, is located in Tanzania. As the highest mountain in Africa — and the highest free-standing mountain above sea level in the entire world, it truly lives up to its name, drawing adventurers from all corners of the globe with the goal of climbing Kilimanjaro. This dormant volcano towers an impressive 5,895 meters above sea level and, on clear days, can be seen from up to 100 kilometers away. Rising dramatically above the surrounding savannah, it often provides a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife safaris, its snow-capped peak a striking contrast to the golden plains below.
If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, look no further! If you’re planning to climb Kilimanjaro, we offer guided tours along three of the mountain’s most popular routes: Lemosho, Marangu, and Machame. Whether you’re seeking a more gradual ascent, a challenging trek, or the perfect balance of adventure and beauty, our experienced guides are here to help you reach the summit safely and make your journey unforgettable.
About Kilimanjaro
- Location: Tanzania
- Elevation: 5,895 m (19,341 ft)
- Temperature at peak: -4°C to -27°C
- Time to ascend: 5-8 days
Climb Kilimanjaro – Which route fits you?
There’s a total of seven main routes when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and depending on which route you choose you’ll have a different experience. We offer guided tours for three of the most popular routes:
Lemosho Route
Often considered the most beautiful route up the mountain, the Lemosho trail begins with a relatively gentle hike through a lush rainforest, where wildlife sightings are common. From there, it crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering breathtaking views. The route remains quieter than others until it merges with the Machame trail. Because the Lemosho route typically takes 7–8 days to complete, trekkers benefit from better acclimatization which makes the success rates of reaching the summit higher.
Machame Route (Whiskey Route)
Known as the “Whiskey Route,” the Machame trail is the most popular path to Kilimanjaro’s summit. Taking approximately 6–7 days, it offers stunning vistas of the savannah below while providing a rewarding challenge. Nicknamed for its reputation as a tougher climb compared to the “Coca-Cola” Marangu Route, Machame leads adventurers through dramatically varied landscapes with breathtaking views.
Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and most established path up the mountain, making it a popular choice for climbing Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers hut accommodations, making it the most comfortable choice for climbers. With a gradual and steady ascent to each camp, Marangu is considered the easiest route to the summit — though it still offers a reasonable challenge. Typically completed in just five days, it is an ideal option for trekkers with limited time.
Mount Meru (Preparation for Kilimanjaro)
If your goal is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro but you’re not sure if you’re ready for the challenge, starting with Mount Meru is a great option. With an elevation of 4,562 meters, it’s a less demanding climb with more forgiving terrain — making it the perfect starting point before taking on Kilimanjaro. If you’re looking for an exciting trek but aren’t quite ready to summit Africa’s highest peak, Mount Meru offers the ideal preparation.
Best time for climbing Kilimanjaro
You can climb Kilimanjaro at any time of the year, but the experience can vary greatly depending on the season. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year:
January - March
This period offers mostly dry weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility — ideal conditions for climbing. It’s also less crowded compared to the peak season of June to September, making it a great balance between good weather and fewer trekkers. If you’re looking for pleasant conditions without overly busy trails, this is an excellent time to climb Kilimanjaro.
June - September
This is the main climbing season, offering the most stable weather. Days are typically dry and clear, although occasional showers are possible. July and August are the busiest months, with many climbers on the trails. If you want to climb Kilimanjaro with the best possible chance of great weather and don’t mind larger crowds, this is the ideal time.
March - May
October - November
The short rainy season falls during these months, with lighter rainfall compared to the long rains of March to May. The mountain is much less crowded, making it a good time to climb Kilimanjaro if you prefer quieter trails and are willing to face some rain.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a rewarding challenge that’s on the bucket list of many adventurers. No matter when you choose to attempt the climb, the experience will be unforgettable.
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