All 7 Kilimanjaro routes, compared side by side. Success rates, difficulty, scenery, crowds, days and 2026/27 prices — everything you need to choose the route that fits your fitness, budget and timeline.
Written by Tinkamanyire Gilbert, Lead Mountain Guide with 17 years of Kilimanjaro experience.
Scroll right on mobile to see all columns. Tap any route name for the full detailed page.
| Route | Days | Distance | Difficulty | Sleep | Success* | Scenery | Crowds | From* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machame | 6–8 | 62 km | Mod–Hard | Tent | ~85% | ★★★★★ | Busy | $2,200 |
| Lemosho | 6–8 | 70 km | Moderate | Tent | ~90% | ★★★★★ | Quiet | $2,600 |
| Marangu | 5–8 | 64 km | Moderate | Hut | ~75% | ★★★☆☆ | Busy | $1,900 |
| Rongai | 6–8 | 73 km | Moderate | Tent | ~80% | ★★★★☆ | Quiet | $2,300 |
| Umbwe | 6–8 | 48 km | Hard | Tent | ~70% | ★★★★☆ | Very quiet | $2,400 |
| Shira | 6–8 | 58 km | Moderate | Tent | ~80% | ★★★★☆ | Quiet | $2,500 |
| Northern Circuit | 8–9 | 88 km | Moderate | Tent | ~95% | ★★★★★ | Very quiet | $3,300 |
* About success rates: Rates shown are industry-wide estimates based on route duration, acclimatisation profile, and data from Kilimanjaro National Park and established operators. Actual summit success varies by individual climber fitness, weather conditions, acclimatisation response, and itinerary length. Longer itineraries on the same route consistently produce higher success rates.
* About prices: Starting prices shown are per person for the shortest available itinerary on each route. Prices include TANAPA park fees, certified guides and porters, three meals daily, camping or hut fees, and emergency oxygen. Prices may vary by group size, travel dates, and specific inclusions. Tips, flights, visa, gear rental, and travel insurance are not included. See the Packages & Prices page for full breakdowns.
~95% on 9 days — the most acclimatisation time of any route.
View route →Remote western approach, Shira Plateau and the full southern circuit.
View route →Gentle huts (Marangu) or proven acclimatisation (Machame 7-day).
Read guide →The longest circumnavigation sees fewer than 5% of all Kilimanjaro climbers.
View route →The only route offering a 5-day option (though 7+ days is recommended).
See Marangu route →The "Whiskey Route" — diverse scenery and the iconic Barranco Wall scramble.
View route →The steepest, most direct line — for experienced, very fit trekkers only.
View route →This is the single biggest factor in summit success. Every extra day on the mountain improves your acclimatisation. A 7-day Machame has roughly 10–15% higher success than a 6-day Machame. If your schedule allows, always choose the longer itinerary. See our success rate guide.
Routes vary from $1,900 (Marangu 5-day) to $3,600 (Northern Circuit 9-day). The price difference is driven by the number of days (more crew days = higher cost) and route-specific park fees. All our prices include TANAPA fees, guides, porters, meals, and equipment. See the full cost breakdown.
Kilimanjaro is a trek, not a technical climb — but some routes are significantly steeper. Umbwe gains altitude rapidly and is suited to very fit trekkers. Marangu and Lemosho have gentler gradients. Read our difficulty guide and training plan.
"People ask me which route to choose. My answer is always the same: pick the one that gives you the most days on the mountain that your budget and schedule allow. An 8-day Lemosho is a beautiful, gradual walk. A 6-day Marangu is a rush. The mountain rewards patience. Choose the longer option and you will stand on the roof of Africa."
Tell us your dates, fitness level and budget — we'll match you to the right route and send a free itemised quote within 24 hours.
