CLIMBING AND TREKKING
Tanzania is best known for hosting Africa’s highest point, Mount Kilimanjaro, and famous safari locations such as Ngorongoro crater and the Serengeti. There are also many other possibilities for treks and adventures as well as interacting with the local communities on our charity trips. Tanzania evokes imagery of wide open spaces and ancient tribal cultures. In fact, pre-human remains have been found here that date back over two million years.
Mount Kilimanjaro is vast. It is 5,895 meters in height, and has topographic isolation of 5,510 kilometers. It’s one of the best and adventurous climbing places in the world. There are five distinct climate zones which vary as you go from one area to another. Rocky Mountains to green pasture lands to snow caps, Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing has got it all covered.
All variables on Kilimanjaro Climbing will be explained so you can choose the perfect route for you with the right difficulty, length, amazing sights and of course the budget. Prices per route can vary as the routes can differ in the amount of days, accommodation, luxury and starting/ending points on the mountain.
The size not only influences the variety of conditions found in different parts of it, but it also has a direct impact on how to climb it and indirectly on how much it will cost you and what the scenery you’ll be seeing along the way. There are six distinct Kilimanjaro Routes which are different from one another.
Africa's #1 highest mountain
Marangu Route:
It’s the major climbing route because it’s the only one that offers hut accommodation. It is also referred sarcastically as Tourist Route or Coca-Cola Route simply because it’s the route tourists prefer and it is easy and you can find Cola-Cola and snacks in the huts along the route. It’s a comfortable walking path and has a gradual steady slope.
Rongai Route:
Following this route, you can easily approach and climb Kilimanjaro from the north with a high success rate. It is relatively less crowded and one can see great scenery and wilderness with possibility of wildlife.
Machame Route:
Also referred to as the Whiskey Route, it’s the most popular climbing route with higher success rate than Marangu. The Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and The Barranco Wall just add on to the landscapes you’ll be witnessing along the journey. There are a lot of valleys and ridges with ups and downs and hence can be tiring for first timers.
Shira Route:
This route actually joins in Machame Route after you start your expedition from west of Kilimanjaro. You have the option of start by walk or by vehicle till you reach Machame.
Lemosho Route:
Just like Shira Route, it approaches Kilimanjaro from west and joins in on Machame. It is mostly followed by professionals or people with experience and who want to enjoy better wilderness.
Umbwe Route:
Not technically a route, but is very direct and very steep. This is the most demanding and difficult route to the mountain.
BEST KILIMANJARO ROUTES
Climb to the Top of Africa Mount Kilimanjaro is the best Top of Africa Mount Kilimanjaro is the best Top of Africa Mount.
There are a number of route options to choose from. Considerations such as climate, scenery, difficulty and foot traffic ultimately play a large role in the route a climber decides to take. Find the route that works best for you to start planning your ideal Kilimanjaro experience:
best time for climbing
If you’re looking for the answer to when the least amount of other travellers will be there and the best type of weather, then you’re looking anywhere between January and March. It will be an acceptable temperature (not too hot), and you’ll still possibly see snow-capped peaks when you get to the top.
Of course, you’re approaching the rainy season if you head out anytime after that. So it’s still a good time, but the routes will be a lot muddier.If you’re looking to come during the peak summer months (June through August), you’ll be able to enjoy the climb with other fellow travelers.
This can provide a unique bonding experience for those looking to meet like-minded adventurers such as yourself. On the flip side, if you’re hunting for a more private experience away from the beaten path, consider the Lemosho or Northern Circuit routes during this time-period.