Planning to go trekking in Kilimanjaro? This is the only guide you need!
If you’re someone who loves adventure, then trekking Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, should be on your bucket list.
With its stunning landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and challenging yet rewarding routes, it’s no wonder why thousands of trekkers make their way to Tanzania to climb Mt Kilimanjaro every year.
I completed the Lemosho Route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s peak with Altezza Travel, and I was definitely not disappointed with the experience!
Read on to discover everything you need to know about trekking in Kilimanjaro.
QUICK ANSWERS: TREKKING IN KILIMANJARO
Let’s start this guide with some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-timers looking to climb Mt Kilimanjaro.
WHERE IS MOUNT KILIMANJARO?
Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano located in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania. It has three volcanic peaks namely Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.
The mountain stands at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) above sea level, making it the highest peak in Africa.
There are different routes to get to the summit, including Lemosho, Machame, and Rongai which I’ll cover in more detail further down in this guide.
Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Mt Kilimanjaro.
HOW TO GET TO MT KILIMANJARO?
The closest airport when arriving to trek to Kilimanjaro is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is served by multiple airlines from destinations around the world.
To climb Mt Kilimanjaro, you’ll have to book a tour ahead of time, and once you arrive at the airport, the tour operator crew will pick you up and take you to a hotel for the first night.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO?
January and February are considered prime months for climbing Kilimanjaro. These months fall within the dry season in Tanzania, offering clear skies and minimal precipitation.
This not only makes your trek less challenging but also allows for stunning, unobstructed views of the landscape.
Climbing in January and February also means you’re likely to encounter fewer fellow climbers than during the summer months. This gives you a more tranquil, personal experience on the mountain.
Alternatively, going for the Mt Kilimanjaro hike from mid-June to the end of October is a great option, but be ready to see more travelers on the way to the summit.
HOW LONG TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?
The answer depends on several factors such as the route you choose and your physical condition.
Kilimanjaro offers different packages ranging from 8 to 10 days, with 2 nights at the hotel, so 6 to 8 days of trekking.
It’s essential to note that the longer the package, the better your chances of success, especially if you’ve never done a hike like this before.
The extra time allows for acclimatization to the altitude, which is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
WHERE TO BOOK KILIMANJARO TREKS?
The best tour company to book trekking in Kilimanjaro is Altezza Travel.
I personally booked with Altezza Travel and I couldn’t have been happier with the experience.
Altezza Travel takes great pride in having the most exceptional and professional Kilimanjaro guides and mountain crew among their team.
They are seasoned experts with a track record of successfully leading numerous expeditions and are the number one tour operator in Tanzania on TripAdvisor.
Other than including everything you need and more for climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, they are extremely helpful from the booking process until the very end of the trek.
Special Offer: Altezza extends a 5% discount on all Kilimanjaro Treks to my readers when you include the code JONNYMELON during your booking inquiry.
BEST TREKKING KILIMANJARO TOUR
The best way to hike Kilimanjaro is by joining the Trekking in Kilimanjaro Tour with Altezza Travel.
It includes accommodation, food, transportation, park fees, experienced guides, and much more!
Include the code JONNYMELON during your booking inquiry to receive a 5% discount.
HOW MUCH TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?
The prices for trekking Kilimanjaro vary depending on the length of the trek, the number of people in your group, and whether you pick a classic or premium tour.
For instance, the prices for the Lemosho Route start at $3,228 for a 6-day trek plus 2 nights in a hotel with the classic option, or $7,491 for the premium package.
On the other hand, the prices for the Machame Route start at $3,191 for a 6-day trek plus 2 nights in a hotel with the classic option, or $7,313 for the premium package.
Lastly, the most expensive route is the Rongai Route, with prices starting at $3,264 for a 6-day trek plus 2 nights in a hotel with the classic option, or $7,656 for the premium package.
Although it may seem steep, the investment is well worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime experience and unbelievable sights from the top of Africa’s highest mountain!
BEST ROUTES FOR TREKKING KILIMANJARO
There are 3 different routes to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro:
- Lemosho Route
- Machame Route
- Rongai Route
I personally did the Lemosho Route, 7 days of trekking in Kilimanjaro + 2 days at a hotel, which is one of the easiest routes with a 95% success rate.
In the following section, I will go through the different routes, the duration of each, the prices, and much more.
LEMOSHO ROUTE
- Duration: 6 – 8 days
- Elevation: 3,500 m to 5,895 m / 11,483 ft to 19,341 ft
- Price: From $2,658 for 8+ people to $8,724 for 1 person
- Difficulty: Moderate
LEMOSHO ROUTE OVERVIEW
If you’re considering climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route is one of the best options for first-timers.
After a night at the hotel and a 3.5-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, you’ll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro.
From there, the route will take you across the Shira Plateau from west to east, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
You’ll enjoy an array of ecosystems as you traverse the mountain, including lush forests filled with monkeys, exotic birds, and other wildlife.
During your climb, you’ll pass by several key landmarks, including Shira Peak Cathedral Point, which is a towering formation of volcanic rock and one of the three peaks inside Kilimanjaro National Park.
The route also offers a unique opportunity to explore the Lava Tower and Barranco Wall, which are two challenging but adventurous sections of the climb.
One of the many highlights of the Lemosho Route is its gentle ascent, which allows your body more time to prepare itself for higher altitudes and is, therefore, a great option for beginners.
PRICES
6, 7, and 8-day treks are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal.
Longer Kilimanjaro treks are always recommended over shorter ones for better acclimatization.
It’s essential to note that you should always add 2 days for a night at the hotel before and after the hike (included), so the whole route will take a total of 8 to 10 days.
Here’s an overview of the prices for the Classic trek to Kilimanjaro:
| 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax | |
| 6-day trek | $3,228 | $2,542 | $2,309 | $2,249 | $2,178 | $2,156 | $2,086 | $2,043 |
| 7-day trek | $3,737 | $2,932 | $2,649 | $2,569 | $2,532 | $2,447 | $2,373 | $2,315 |
| 8-day trek | $4,314 | $3,372 | $3,018 | $2,915 | $2,855 | $2,765 | $2,717 | $2,658 |
And here’s an overview of the prices for the Premium Kilimanjaro trek:
| 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax | |
| 6-day trek | $7,491 | $5,130 | $4,647 | $4,432 | $4,316 | $4,172 | $4,001 | $3,912 |
| 7-day trek | $8,013 | $5,577 | $4,977 | $4,792 | $4,678 | $4,565 | $4,333 | $4,237 |
| 8-day trek | $8,724 | $5,975 | $5,320 | $5,206 | $5,045 | $4,936 | $4,681 | $4,552 |
The difference between the Classic and Premium packages are the hotels (5-star hotels VS 3-star hotels), the equipment (satellite phone, more trekking gear, and more comfortable tents in the premium option), and bottled water on the hike, among others.
INCLUSIONS
The Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees are included, as well as the hotel room before and after the trek, and all meals while trekking Kilimanjaro.
On top of that, porters are also included, so you won’t need to carry all the gear.
Lastly, some hiking equipment is included (and more gear in the premium packages) and a certificate will be awarded to you at the end of the trek for a successful summit!
EXCLUSIONS
Visa fees, international and domestic flights, tips for the mountain crew, travel insurance, and portable toilets are not included.
MACHAME ROUTE
- Duration: 6 – 7 days
- Elevation: 1,800 m to 5895 m / 5,905 ft to 19,341 ft
- Price: From $1,988 for 8+ people to $7,708 for 1 person
- Difficulty: Strenuous
MACHAME ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey” route, is one of the most popular routes when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
It’s famous for its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and challenging climb. The route is a 6 or 7-day trek that covers approximately 62 kilometers (37 miles), with an altitude gain of over 4,900 meters.
The Machame Route starts on the southwestern side of the mountain and traverses through a variety of ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, heathlands, and alpine deserts.
The climb begins at Machame Gate, located at an elevation of 1,800 meters, and gradually ascends to Barafu Camp, which is situated at an altitude of 4,673 meters.
Along the way, you’ll encounter some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in Tanzania, and you’ll also pass by several landmarks including the famous Arrow Glacier.
One of the most notable aspects of the Machame Route is its difficulty level. It’s considered a challenging route, with steep inclines and rocky terrain that will test your endurance and physical fitness.
It’s essential to note that the Machame Route requires good physical fitness and preparation before the climb (the Lemosho Route too, but Machame is harder, so keep that in mind).
PRICES
6 and 7-day Kilimanjaro treks on the Machame Route are available but I recommend the latter for better acclimatization and not feeling as rushed to get to the summit.
Just like the Lemosho Route, it’s essential to note that you must add 2 days for a night at the hotel before and after the hike (included), so the whole route will take a total of 7 to 8 days.
Here’s an overview of the prices for the Classic trek to Kilimanjaro:
| 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax | |
| 6-day trek | $3,191 | $2,519 | $2,251 | $2,203 | $2,169 | $2,102 | $2,040 | $1,988 |
| 7-day trek | $3,594 | $2,845 | $2,557 | $2,486 | $2,447 | $2,375 | $2,312 | $2,248 |
And here’s an overview of the prices for the Premium trek to Kilimanjaro:
| 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax | |
| 6-day trek | $7,313 | $4,993 | $4,512 | $4,331 | $4,228 | $4,106 | $3,913 | $3,819 |
| 7-day trek | $7,708 | $5,354 | $4,817 | $4,659 | $4,545 | $4,434 | $4,218 | $4,118 |
I recommend taking the 7-day trekking Kilimanjaro tour as it’s slower paced and you won’t experience as much altitude sickness.
INCLUSIONS
The Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees are included, as well as a hotel room before and after the climb, meals throughout the trip, and the services of dedicated porters.
Additionally, mountaineering gear is provided, with premium packages offering even more equipment.
Upon coming back from the summit, a personalized certificate of achievement will be presented to commemorate the journey.
EXCLUSIONS
Note that the visa fees, international and domestic flights, tips for the mountain crew, travel insurance, and portable toilets are not covered in the package.
RONGAI ROUTE
- Duration: 6 – 7 days
- Maximum elevation: 2,020m to 5,895m / 6,627ft to 19,341 ft
- Price: From $2,062 for 8+ people to $8,191 for 1 person
- Difficulty: Moderate
RONGAI ROUTE OVERVIEW
If you’re looking for a quieter and less crowded path to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the Rongai Route is an excellent option.
The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches the mountain from the north, near the Kenyan border. This approach provides stunning panoramic views and a unique perspective of the mountain.
The Rongai Route is considered one of the easier routes up Kilimanjaro, with a gradual and steady climb that’s well-suited for those with less hiking experience.
Although it’s one of Kilimanjaro’s shorter routes, with less distance covered, it’s important to note that the altitude gain can still be challenging.
One of the benefits of the Rongai Route is the fewer crowds, providing a more intimate and peaceful trekking experience.
It’s also a moderately difficult route, with a success rate of 70% to 90%, making it an excellent choice for first-timers.
PRICES
6-day and 7-day treks Kilimanjaro are available but I recommend the latter for better acclimatization and not feeling as rushed to get to the summit.
Just like the Lemosho and Machame Route, it’s essential to note that you must add 2 days for a night at the hotel before and after the hike (included), so the whole route will take a total of 7 to 8 days.
Here’s an overview of the prices for the Classic trek:
| 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax | |
| 6-day trek | $3,264 | $2,569 | $2,333 | $2,271 | $2,210 | $2,177 | $2,104 | $2,062 |
| 7-day trek | $3,772 | $2,960 | $2,678 | $2,581 | $2,557 | $2,467 | $2,393 | $2,335 |
And here’s an overview of the prices for the Premium trek:
| 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax | |
| 6-day trek | $7,656 | $5,234 | $4,735 | $4,507 | $4,385 | $4,234 | $4,041 | $3,973 |
| 7-day trek | $8,191 | $5,698 | $5,064 | $4,870 | $4,752 | $4,635 | $4,405 | $4,302 |
INCLUSIONS
The entrance fees for Kilimanjaro National Park are included, as well as a cozy hotel room both before and after your trek. And of course, all meals are provided while climbing Mt Kilimanjaro.
There’s a team of dedicated porters who will handle all your stuff, so you can enjoy the experience without the burden of carrying all the gear.
When you reach the summit, you’ll get a well-deserved certificate at the end of the trek to commemorate your epic accomplishment.
EXCLUSIONS
Note that visa fees, both for international and domestic flights, tips for the mountain crew, travel insurance, and portable toilets are not included in the package.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LEMOSHO, MACHAME, AND RONGAI ROUTES
If it’s your first time visiting Tanzania or have done little research before, it can be confusing to choose between the 3 routes, so let’s talk about the differences.
The Lemosho Route (the one I personally did) is widely considered the easiest and most beautiful of all the Kilimanjaro trekking routes.
The Machame Route is one of the most challenging rotues on Kilimanjaro. It’s famous for its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, steep inclines, and rocky terrain.
It requires excellent physical fitness and more preparation before you climb Mt Kilimanjaro, so I wouldn’t consider it if you’re a beginner.
The Rongai Route is the only trail that starts in the north, and it’s quieter and less crowded compared to the other routes.
The difficulty level is similar to the Lemosho Route, so it’s a good alternative if this is one of your first multi-day treks.
FAQ – TREKKING IN KILIMANJARO
Now that you have more information about climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, let’s answer some questions from first-time visitors.
HOW TO STAY CONNECTED ON MOUNT KILIMANJARO?
There is very limited phone signal when trekking in Kilimanjaro, and it’s a good opportunity to take a digital detox for 7 days.
However, I understand some of us like to stay connected as much as possible, so I recommend getting a local SIM card which you can get upon arrival at the airport.
Generally speaking, the internet speed on the mountain isn’t great, so you’ll mostly only be able to send text messages, check emails, and do other essential things.
IS FOOD PROVIDED ON THE TOUR?
Absolutely, food is a crucial part of your Kilimanjaro trek and all meals are included when you book your expedition with Altezza Travel.
Breakfast was generally porridge, vegetables, eggs, sausages, and pancakes with coffee or tea.
Lunches and dinners are a mix of soups, chicken, beef, and fish dishes with vegetables, rice, potato, or spaghetti.
You’re sure to be served fresh and nutritious food by the chefs. They also cater to vegans and vegetarians and any other dietary requirements you may have.
IS THE LEMOSHO ROUTE THE BEST TO GET TO KILIMANJARO?
The Lemosho Route is often lauded as the best route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro for being easier than other trails and for having a higher success rate.
The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route traverses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a relatively flat hike that is less taxing on your body.
One of the major advantages of this route is the additional time it provides for acclimatization. This significantly increases your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
WHAT TO PACK TO HIKE MT KILIMANJARO?
One thing you’ll want to keep in mind when you plan to climb Mt Kilimanjaro is the packing list.
Below, I’ll go through the essentials to pack for your trek to Kilimanjaro.
Note that, in case you don’t own any hiking equipment or winter gear, you can rent everything you need with Altezza Travel.
HIKING CLOTHES & GEAR
- Small backpack, 20 – 30L
- Hiking boots
- 2-3 pairs of hiking pants
- 3-4 long-sleeve t-shirts
- Insulated winter jacket and pants
- Neck warmer, hat, and beanie
- Winter socks and gloves
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water bottle and 2-3 litre water bladder.
CAMPING GEAR
- Waterproof duffel bag
- Extreme cold sleeping bag
- Inflatable pillow
- Toiletries and toilet paper
- A power bank
- Headlamp with batteries
- Earplugs
- Wet wipes
WHERE TO STAY IN ARUSHA?
If you are planning to extend your stay in Tanzania, Arusha has dozens of accommodation options to choose from when planning your trip.
I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: GRAND MELIA ARUSHA
MID-RANGE: HARADALI’S HOME
BUDGET: KARIBU HERITAGE HOUSE
FINAL THOUGHTS – KILIMANJARO TREKS
I hope you enjoyed reading this article about the treks Kilimanjaro offers and if you have any questions, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
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THANKS FOR READING
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