Mt Meru
Mount Meru is located within Arusha National Park in Tanzania, approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at 4,562 meters (14,968 feet) above sea level, it is Tanzania’s second-highest peak. The most commonly used climbing route is the Momella Route, which typically takes 3 to 4 days to complete. This route offers a variety of landscapes, from lush forests and open grasslands to rugged, rocky terrain. Reaching the summit rewards climbers with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding wilderness.
Mt Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in northeastern Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. Rising to an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), it holds the title of the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Climbers can choose from several routes to reach the summit, each offering unique landscapes and varying levels of difficulty. Popular options include the Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, and Rongai routes, while the Northern Circuit and Western Breach are favored by those seeking a more challenging ascent.
Mt Ol Doinyo Lengai
Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is located in the Great Rift Valley of northern Tanzania, near Lake Natron. This active stratovolcano rises to an elevation of 2,878 meters (9,442 feet) and is known for its unique climbing experience. Unlike traditional rock or ice climbs, the ascent involves trekking on steep, ash-covered slopes, making the terrain particularly rugged and physically demanding. The loose volcanic ash and sharp inclines challenge even experienced hikers, offering a distinctive and adventurous trek.
Mt Kenya (Kenya)
Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak at 5,199 meters, offers scenic climbs via routes like Naro Moru and Sirimon. It’s less technical than it looks, though fitness and acclimatization are key. Mount Meru is a great Kilimanjaro prep, while Ol Doinyo Lengai offers a steep volcanic trek and rare glowing lava, revered by the Maasai. Each mountain provides a unique adventure for climbers seeking challenge, culture, and breathtaking views.
Climb Tours – Your Path to the Roof of Africa.
Explore Africa’s highest peak with expert local guides. All routes include guides, porters, meals, park fees, and accommodation.
Marangu Route (5–6 Days) – From $1,450
Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations in dormitory-style lodging. It’s considered the most comfortable option, especially during the rainy season, and is also the most affordable as no camping gear is required. Due to limited hut space, early booking is essential.
Highlights:
Hut-based lodging (great during wet season)
Gentle slopes; less physical strain
Fewer porters needed due to minimal gear requirements
Rongai Route (5–6 Days) – From $1,450
The only route approaching Kilimanjaro from the northern (Kenya) side, Rongai is quiet, remote, and drier than other paths—making it ideal during the rainy season. It offers flexible ascent options and minimal foot traffic.
Highlights:
Less rainfall and forest cover
Two route variations for flexibility
Fewer climbers; more solitude
Optional detour to Mawenzi Peak’s edge
Shira Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,450
Shira Route starts from the west and begins with a vehicle transfer to Shira Ridge (3,400m)—ideal for acclimatized climbers. It quickly joins the Lemosho route on Day 2 and follows the southern circuit past Lava Tower to the summit.
Highlights:
Begins at high altitude (good for acclimatized hikers)
Scenic views and remote western approach
Merges with Lemosho and Machame routes
Umbwe Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,450
The steepest and most direct path to the summit, Umbwe is for experienced, fit climbers seeking a challenge. With limited acclimatization time, it’s not recommended for beginners. It features lush forests, dramatic ridges, and minimal foot traffic.
Highlights:
Shortest and steepest ascent
Stunning rainforest and valley views
Connects with Machame/Lemosho at Barranco Camp
Ideal for fast ascents and seasoned hikers
Northern Circuit Route (8–9 Days) – From $1,900
Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, offering a nearly complete circumnavigation of the mountain. Starting on the Lemosho route, it loops north around the massif and offers excellent acclimatization and solitude.
Highlights:
Full 360° traverse of Kilimanjaro
Views of Kenya’s plains and eastern slopes
Least crowded; most comprehensive route
Maximum acclimatization time
Machame Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,650
Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is the most popular and scenic trek up Kilimanjaro. It’s moderately difficult and perfect for adventurous hikers who want a rich, varied experience, including the iconic Barranco Wall.
Highlights:
Breathtaking views and diverse terrain
“Climb high, sleep low” design aids acclimatization
Merges with Lemosho route after Day 4
Well-balanced duration and challenge
Lemosho Route (7–8 Days) – From $1,850
Widely regarded as the most beautiful and best acclimatization route, Lemosho begins on the remote western side. It includes an early ascent of Shira Peak (3,875m) and joins the Machame route at Barranco. Ideal for those seeking higher summit success.
Highlights:
High success rate due to gradual ascent
Remote, less crowded start
Fully supported camping experience
Ideal for beginner and intermediate hikers
Explore Africa’s highest peak with expert local guides. All routes include guides, porters, meals, park fees, and accommodation.
Marangu Route (5–6 Days) – From $1,450
Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations in dormitory-style lodging. It’s considered the most comfortable option, especially during the rainy season, and is also the most affordable as no camping gear is required. Due to limited hut space, early booking is essential.
Highlights:
Hut-based lodging (great during wet season)
Gentle slopes; less physical strain
Fewer porters needed due to minimal gear requirements
Rongai Route (5–6 Days) – From $1,450
The only route approaching Kilimanjaro from the northern (Kenya) side, Rongai is quiet, remote, and drier than other paths—making it ideal during the rainy season. It offers flexible ascent options and minimal foot traffic.
Highlights:
Less rainfall and forest cover
Two route variations for flexibility
Fewer climbers; more solitude
Optional detour to Mawenzi Peak’s edge
Shira Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,450
Shira Route starts from the west and begins with a vehicle transfer to Shira Ridge (3,400m)—ideal for acclimatized climbers. It quickly joins the Lemosho route on Day 2 and follows the southern circuit past Lava Tower to the summit.
Highlights:
Begins at high altitude (good for acclimatized hikers)
Scenic views and remote western approach
Merges with Lemosho and Machame routes
Umbwe Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,450
The steepest and most direct path to the summit, Umbwe is for experienced, fit climbers seeking a challenge. With limited acclimatization time, it’s not recommended for beginners. It features lush forests, dramatic ridges, and minimal foot traffic.
Highlights:
Shortest and steepest ascent
Stunning rainforest and valley views
Connects with Machame/Lemosho at Barranco Camp
Ideal for fast ascents and seasoned hikers
Northern Circuit Route (8–9 Days) – From $1,900
Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, offering a nearly complete circumnavigation of the mountain. Starting on the Lemosho route, it loops north around the massif and offers excellent acclimatization and solitude.
Highlights:
Full 360° traverse of Kilimanjaro
Views of Kenya’s plains and eastern slopes
Least crowded; most comprehensive route
Maximum acclimatization time
Machame Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,650
Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is the most popular and scenic trek up Kilimanjaro. It’s moderately difficult and perfect for adventurous hikers who want a rich, varied experience, including the iconic Barranco Wall.
Highlights:
Breathtaking views and diverse terrain
“Climb high, sleep low” design aids acclimatization
Merges with Lemosho route after Day 4
Well-balanced duration and challenge
Lemosho Route (7–8 Days) – From $1,850
Widely regarded as the most beautiful and best acclimatization route, Lemosho begins on the remote western side. It includes an early ascent of Shira Peak (3,875m) and joins the Machame route at Barranco. Ideal for those seeking higher summit success.
Highlights:
High success rate due to gradual ascent
Remote, less crowded start
Fully supported camping experience
Ideal for beginner and intermediate hikers
Climb Tours – Your Path to the Roof of Africa.
Explore Africa’s highest peak with expert local guides. All routes include guides, porters, meals, park fees, and accommodation.
Marangu Route (5–6 Days) – From $1,450
Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations in dormitory-style lodging. It’s considered the most comfortable option, especially during the rainy season, and is also the most affordable as no camping gear is required. Due to limited hut space, early booking is essential.
Highlights:
Hut-based lodging (great during wet season)
Gentle slopes; less physical strain
Fewer porters needed due to minimal gear requirements
Rongai Route (5–6 Days) – From $1,450
The only route approaching Kilimanjaro from the northern (Kenya) side, Rongai is quiet, remote, and drier than other paths—making it ideal during the rainy season. It offers flexible ascent options and minimal foot traffic.
Highlights:
Less rainfall and forest cover
Two route variations for flexibility
Fewer climbers; more solitude
Optional detour to Mawenzi Peak’s edge
Shira Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,450
Shira Route starts from the west and begins with a vehicle transfer to Shira Ridge (3,400m)—ideal for acclimatized climbers. It quickly joins the Lemosho route on Day 2 and follows the southern circuit past Lava Tower to the summit.
Highlights:
Begins at high altitude (good for acclimatized hikers)
Scenic views and remote western approach
Merges with Lemosho and Machame routes
Umbwe Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,450
The steepest and most direct path to the summit, Umbwe is for experienced, fit climbers seeking a challenge. With limited acclimatization time, it’s not recommended for beginners. It features lush forests, dramatic ridges, and minimal foot traffic.
Highlights:
Shortest and steepest ascent
Stunning rainforest and valley views
Connects with Machame/Lemosho at Barranco Camp
Ideal for fast ascents and seasoned hikers
Northern Circuit Route (8–9 Days) – From $1,900
Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, offering a nearly complete circumnavigation of the mountain. Starting on the Lemosho route, it loops north around the massif and offers excellent acclimatization and solitude.
Highlights:
Full 360° traverse of Kilimanjaro
Views of Kenya’s plains and eastern slopes
Least crowded; most comprehensive route
Maximum acclimatization time
Machame Route (6–7 Days) – From $1,650
Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is the most popular and scenic trek up Kilimanjaro. It’s moderately difficult and perfect for adventurous hikers who want a rich, varied experience, including the iconic Barranco Wall.
Highlights:
Breathtaking views and diverse terrain
“Climb high, sleep low” design aids acclimatization
Merges with Lemosho route after Day 4
Well-balanced duration and challenge
Lemosho Route (7–8 Days) – From $1,850
Widely regarded as the most beautiful and best acclimatization route, Lemosho begins on the remote western side. It includes an early ascent of Shira Peak (3,875m) and joins the Machame route at Barranco. Ideal for those seeking higher summit success.
Highlights:
High success rate due to gradual ascent
Remote, less crowded start
Fully supported camping experience
Ideal for beginner and intermediate hikers
Climb Tours – Your Path to the Roof of Africa.
