About climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Typical duration: 4–8 days. Difficulty: trekking (no technical climbing) for the main summit; technical rock climbing only for Mount Kenya's Batian/Nelion. Best season: January–February and July–October. Guide required: yes, by law. From price: $2,350 per person.

Compare at a glance

Mount Kilimanjaro routes compared

Choose by scenery, crowds, difficulty and duration. Every route below is operable by our team.

Route Difficulty Duration Scenery Crowds Summit Best for
Machame Challenging 6–7 days Five climate zones, Barranco Wall High Uhuru Peak (5,895m) Trekkers wanting the best acclimatization profile on a scenic route.
Marangu Moderate–Challenging 5–6 days Rainforest, moorland, Saddle High Uhuru Peak (5,895m) Trekkers who prefer hut accommodation over camping.
Lemosho Challenging 7–8 days Shira Plateau, western slopes, Barranco Wall Low Uhuru Peak (5,895m) Trekkers wanting the highest summit success rate and fewest crowds.
Rongai
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Moderate 6–7 days Dry northern slopes, moorland Low Uhuru Peak (5,895m) Trekkers wanting a drier, quieter route with steady gradient.
Umbwe
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Very Challenging 6–7 days Steep forest, ridges, moorland Very low Uhuru Peak (5,895m) Experienced trekkers confident with a steep, fast ascent.
Northern Circuit
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Challenging 8–9 days Remote northern slopes, full circumnavigation Very low Uhuru Peak (5,895m) Trekkers wanting the longest, quietest and newest route.
Bookable packages

Mount Kilimanjaro packages — USD pricing

Every package below shows a clear starting price, full itinerary, what's included and a persistent booking CTA.

Proof from the trail

Mount Kilimanjaro guest stories

★★★★★
The Machame route tested me but the guides read my pace perfectly. Pole pole — slowly slowly — is real wisdom on this mountain. Summit night was the hardest thing I've ever done, and reaching Stella Point at sunrise with the glaciers glowing gold made every aching step worth it. The crew sang with me at Uhuru Peak. Unforgettable.
AndreaBologna, Italy · Kilimanjaro Machame Route — 7 Days
★★★★★
I chose Lemosho for the extra acclimatisation days and it was the right call. Eight days gave my body time to adjust and I summited with zero altitude sickness. The Shira Plateau and the Lava Tower day were spectacular. The porters are the unsung heroes of this mountain — their strength and kindness humbled me every single day.
SussaneZurich, Switzerland · Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route — 8 Days
★★★★★
The Marangu route's huts meant I didn't have to camp, which suited me perfectly. The Mandara and Horombo huts were comfortable and the communal dining was a lovely way to meet other climbers. Summit night was tough but the guides kept me going with encouragement and hot tea. Standing on Uhuru Peak is something I'll never forget.
SharonEdinburgh, Scotland · Kilimanjaro Marangu Route — 6 Days
Mount Kilimanjaro FAQs

Common questions about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kenya or Kilimanjaro — which should I climb?

Kilimanjaro (5,895m) is higher and more famous, with a higher summit success rate on longer routes but more crowds. Mount Kenya (4,985m trekking peak) is more scenic, much quieter, cheaper, and offers a true wilderness experience. Many climbers do Mount Kenya first to acclimatize, then Kilimanjaro.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are January–March and June–October. January–March is colder but quieter; June–October is warmer and busier. Avoid the long rains (April–May) and short rains (November) for safety and comfort.

Do I need technical climbing gear for Kilimanjaro?

No. All standard Kilimanjaro routes to Uhuru Peak are trekking routes — no ropes or technical climbing required. You need good hiking boots, layered clothing and a sleeping bag rated to -15°C. A walking pole helps on summit night.

How fit do I need to be?

For Point Lenana and Kilimanjaro trekking routes you need good general fitness — able to hike 6–8 hours with a daypack for several consecutive days. No technical climbing skills are needed. For Batian you need rock-climbing experience at Grade IV+.

What is included in the price?

All our mountain packages include park fees, guide/cook/porter team, all meals on the mountain, tents and sleeping mats, and transfers from Nairobi (or Moshi for Kilimanjaro). Not included: crew tips, travel insurance, personal gear, visas and flights.

Is altitude sickness a risk?

Yes. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. We minimise the risk with gradual ascent profiles, acclimatization days, hydration and daily health checks. Our guides are trained to spot symptoms and respond, including emergency descent.

Which Mount Kilimanjaro route is right for you?

Tell us your fitness, dates and budget. We'll recommend the best route — no obligation.

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