Routes & Pricing
Marangu
5 or 6 days. Most popular route.
The Marangu route is the most popular route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. It only requires hiking, and has some comforts available. Shared hut accommodations are the primary amenity, which provide relative luxury compared to tent camping.
We recommend the 6 day option, which adds an extra day of acclimatization and greatly increases your chances of success.
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Pricing: $1,050 - $1,500 USD per person based on # of days and group size
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Machame
6 or 7 days. Very popular route.
The Machame route has the highest success rate on Mt. Kilimanjaro. This is driven by two important factors:
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Day 3 allows for additional acclimatization by hiking up to Lava Tower at 4,642 meters and back down to camp at 3,950 meters
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The summit path is from Barafu camp and has less scree (loose rocks) compared to the summit attempt path from Kibo Hut (as in the Marangu route), making it slightly easier to reach the crater rim and increasing the chance of a successful summit attempt
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Pricing: $1,400 - $1,900 USD per person based on # of days and group size
Rongai
6 or 7 days. Remote & unspoiled wilderness
The Rongai route ascends Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This route enables you to truly experience raw, unspoiled wilderness. It also provides a different perspective of Kilimanjaro due to approaching from the north.
Hikers may experience a higher risk of altitude sickness on the Rongai route due to continuously ascending rather than ascending and descending throughout the trek. The Rongai route uses the more challenging Kibo hut summit path.
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Pricing: $1,500 - $1,950 USD per person based on # of days and group size
Umbwe
6 or 7 days. Explore ancient caves
The Umbwe route is the least crowded route on the mountain as it is the most difficult route. It is steep and constantly ascending, with a low success rate. However, some hikers prefer it for its seclusion and difficulty, especially if they are experienced at altitude and can handle a punishing climb. Umbwe is known for caves along the route. The first is spent at the Umbwe Cave Camp, and two other caves can be explored en route the following day.
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Pricing: $1,550 - $1,750 USD per person based on # of days and group size
Lemosho
8 Days. High success, small crowds.
Lemosho is a difficult and long route, but has smaller crowds, incredible variation in scenery, and a high success rates. We use the 8 day Lemosho route because it includes a short hiking day just prior to the summit attempt. This is important because the summit day begins at midnight, so climbers are better rested having the short day added to the schedule before the toughest day on the mountain. The 8 day Lemosho route is highly recommended and used by most prominent Kilimanjaro operators.
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Pricing: $1,750 - $2,150 USD per person based on # of days and group size
Detailed Descriptions of the Routes up Mt Kilimanjaro
There are several routes that lead to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, each offering a unique experience. A Kilimanjaro trek usually takes between six and nine days, depending on the route. The most popular routes to reach the Kilimanjaro summit are the Marangu route, Machame route, Rongai route, Lemosho route, and Umbwe route. Each route has its own unique features, such as different levels of difficulty, scenery, and success rates. Choosing the right route for your Kilimanjaro tour depends on your level of experience, physical fitness, and time availability. Our team of Kilimanjaro guides can help you determine the best route and timing and are happy to discuss each option with you.
Marangu Route Daily Itinerary
The Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route, is the oldest and most popular route up Mount Kilimanjaro. It typically takes 6 days to complete and offers a relatively easy and gradual climb. Below is a detailed description of each day of the Marangu Route:
Day 1: The Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut (elevation gain: 900 meters) The trek begins at the Marangu Gate, where hikers will register and begin their climb. The trail starts in a lush rainforest and winds its way through dense vegetation and steep inclines. The first camp, Mandara Hut, is located at an elevation of 2,700 meters. Trekkers will have the opportunity to see various species of birds and monkeys as they make their way through the forest.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (elevation gain: 1,200 meters) The second day of the trek takes hikers out of the rainforest and into a more arid landscape. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as hikers make their way up to Horombo Hut, located at an elevation of 3,700 meters. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (elevation gain: 1,200 meters) The third day of the trek is relatively short and offers a chance for trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude. The trail continues to climb through rocky terrain, but the pace is slower and more leisurely. Hikers will reach Kibo Hut, located at an elevation of 4,700 meters, in the afternoon. The camp is situated in a valley and offers stunning views of the mountain.
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and then Horombo Hut (elevation gain: 1,200 meters) The fourth day of the trek is the summit push. Hikers will wake up early in the morning and begin the steep climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at an elevation of 5,895 meters. After reaching the summit, hikers will then descend to Horombo Hut, located at an elevation of 3,700 meters.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (elevation gain: -1,200 meters) The fifth day of the trek is the final descent down to the Marangu Gate. The trail is relatively easy, but the steep incline can be tiring. Hikers will pass through lush rainforest and have the opportunity to see various species of birds and monkeys as they make their way through the forest. The trek ends at the Marangu Gate, where hikers will sign out and return to their accommodation.
Please note that this itinerary is a general description and may vary depending on the tour operator, pace of the group, weather conditions and other factors. It is also important to note that the Marangu route is considered as the most crowded route, and all accommodation is in shared huts. It is a good option for hikers who prefer a more gradual ascent and have less time.
Machame Route Daily Itinerary
The Machame Route, also known as the Whiskey Route, is a popular and challenging route up Mount Kilimanjaro. It typically takes 6-7 days to complete and offers a diverse range of landscapes and scenic views. Below is a detailed description of each day of the Machame Route:
Day 1: The Machame Gate to Machame Camp (elevation gain: 1,180 meters) The trek begins at the Machame Gate, where hikers will register and begin their climb. The trail starts in a lush rainforest and winds its way through dense vegetation and steep inclines. The first camp, Machame Camp, is located at an elevation of 3,000 meters. Trekkers will have the opportunity to see various species of birds and monkeys as they make their way through the forest.
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Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (elevation gain: 900 meters) The second day of the trek takes hikers out of the rainforest and into a more arid landscape. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as hikers make their way up to Shira Camp, located at an elevation of 3,900 meters. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (elevation gain: 600 meters) The third day of the trek is relatively short and offers a chance for trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude. The trail continues to climb through rocky terrain, but the pace is slower and more leisurely. Hikers will reach Barranco Camp, located at an elevation of 3,940 meters, in the afternoon. The camp is situated in a valley and offers stunning views of the mountain.
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Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (elevation gain: 600 meters) The fourth day of the trek is another short day, and hikers will continue to climb through rocky terrain. The trail becomes steeper and more challenging as hikers make their way up to Karanga Camp, located at an elevation of 4,000 meters. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to see glaciers and ice formations on the mountain.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (elevation gain: 400 meters) The fifth day of the trek is a short, steep climb to Barafu Camp, located at an elevation of 4,673 meters. This camp is the final camp before the summit push and is the starting point for the final ascent. The camp is situated on a rocky plateau and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and then Mweka Camp (elevation gain: 1,200 meters) The final day of the trek is the summit push. Hikers will wake up early in the morning and begin the steep climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at an elevation of 5,895 meters. After reaching the summit, hikers will then descend to Mweka Camp, located at an elevation of 3,100 meters. This camp is the final camping spot before the end of the trek.
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Please note that this itinerary is a general description and may vary depending on the tour operator, pace of the group, weather conditions and other factors. It is also important to note that The Machame route is considered as a challenging route due to its steep inclines, and it is recommended for hikers with some previous hiking experience.
Rongai Route Daily Itinerary
The Rongai Route is a less-traveled trail that begins on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro and offers a more gradual ascent compared to other routes. Here is a general overview of each day of the Rongai Route:
Day 1: The trailhead for the Rongai Route is located at Nale Moru, which is about two hours from the town of Moshi. The first day's hike takes hikers through a forest and across a small stream to reach the first campsite, Simba Camp, which is located at an elevation of 2,650 meters (8,700 feet). The elevation gain for the first day is around 600 meters (2,000 feet).
Day 2: The second day's hike takes hikers through a more open landscape and across a small stream to reach the second campsite, Kikelewa Camp, which is located at an elevation of 3,600 meters (11,800 feet). The elevation gain for the second day is around 950 meters (3,120 feet).
Day 3: The third day's hike takes hikers through a rocky and more mountainous terrain to reach the third campsite, Mawenzi Tarn Camp, which is located at an elevation of 4,330 meters (14,200 feet). The elevation gain for the third day is around 730 meters (2,400 feet).
Day 4: The fourth day is a rest day, allowing hikers to acclimatize to the high altitude. It also gives the hikers an opportunity to explore the Mawenzi Tarn area, which offers great views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 5: The fifth day's hike takes hikers through a rocky and more mountainous terrain to reach the fourth campsite, Kibo Hut, which is located at an elevation of 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). The elevation gain for the fifth day is around 370 meters (1,210 feet).
Day 6: The sixth day is a summit day. Hikers will wake up early and begin their ascent to the summit of Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The hike to the summit takes around 6-8 hours and the descent takes around 4-6 hours.
Day 7: The seventh day is a descent day. Hikers will descend back to the trailhead, where they will be picked up and driven back to Moshi or Arusha.
The Rongai Route is considered one of the most scenic routes up Mount Kilimanjaro, and offers a diverse array of landscapes and terrains, including forests, open grasslands, rocky high-altitude deserts, and glaciers. Along the way, hikers may see wildlife such as colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and hyrax, as well as stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Lemosho Route Daily Itinerary
The Lemosho Route is a scenic and less-crowded route up Mount Kilimanjaro that begins on the western side of the mountain. It is considered one of the most beautiful and diverse routes on the mountain and it is also one of the longest routes, usually taking 8 to 9 days to reach the summit.
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Day 1: Lemosho Glades (2,800m/9,186ft) to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp (3,000m/9,842ft)
The first day of the Lemosho route begins with a drive from Moshi or Arusha to the Londorossi Gate, where you'll begin your trek. The trail starts in the lush rainforest and gradually gains elevation as you make your way to the Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp. The camp is located in a beautiful clearing in the forest and is a great spot to relax and enjoy the surrounding wildlife.
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Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m/11,483ft)
On the second day, you'll continue trekking through the rainforest and eventually enter the moorland zone. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you make your way to the Shira 1 Camp. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see a variety of birds and other wildlife, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,800m/12,467ft)
On the third day, you'll continue climbing through the moorland zone, with the trail becoming increasingly rocky and strenuous. The Shira 2 Camp is located in a beautiful alpine meadow and offers great views of the mountain.
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Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (3,940m/12,959ft)
On the fourth day, you'll cross the Shira Plateau and enter the alpine desert zone. The trail becomes steeper and more rocky as you make your way to the Barranco Camp, which is located in a valley surrounded by towering cliffs.
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Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,000m/13,123ft)
On the fifth day, you'll make your way up the Barranco Wall, which is a steep and strenuous climb. After reaching the top, you'll continue on to the Karanga Camp, which is located at the base of the Barafu Route.
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Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,091ft)
On the sixth day, you'll make your way to the Barafu Camp, which is the base camp for the summit push. The trail becomes steeper and more rocky as you make your way to the camp, which is located in a rocky alpine desert.
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Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,171ft)
On the seventh day, you'll make your final push to the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The climb is steep and strenuous, and typically begins in the middle of the night to reach the summit at sunrise. After reaching the summit, you'll descent to the Mweka Camp, which is located in the rainforest.
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Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,500m/4,921ft)
On the final day, you'll make your way back down to the Mweka Gate, the exit point of the Lemosho Route. The trail is steep and rocky as you make your way down through the rainforest. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to spot different wildlife, birds and plants that you didn't see on the ascent. After reaching the Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificate and then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
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The Lemosho route offers a more scenic, less-crowded and longer trek, which allows for acclimatization and a higher chance of summit success.
Umbwe Route Daily Itinerary
The Umbwe route of Mount Kilimanjaro as the route is less frequently used than the other routes and it does not have designated camps like the other routes. Umbwe route is considered the most challenging and technical route of Mount Kilimanjaro and it is recommended for experienced climbers. It is a direct, steep and strenuous route to the summit, which is not recommended for beginners. It is not as well-trodden as the other routes, and climbers usually camp at less developed spots along the route.
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It is important to note that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro should be taken seriously and preparation is important. Climbers should be in good physical shape and should have experience with high altitude trekking. It is also recommended to hire a guide and to check the park's regulations and rules before climbing.
General Information
Applicable to all treks
Groups of 1-25 Welcome
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We can accommodate single travelers as well as groups as large as 25. Larger groups result in lower per-person prices.
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Rental Gear Available
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Missing something you need? We can arrange for you to rent just about anything when you arrive in Moshi or Arusha, such as water bottles, trekking poles, heavy coats, backpacks, duffle bags, rain gear, gaiters, and much more. Please let us know if you need to rent equipment.
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Price is Based on Group Size
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Large groups create economies of scale. Therefore, price decreases as the group gets larger. Pricing is also impacted by route, trek duration, and any additional services requested, such as a toilet tent or certain rented equipment.
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The standard fee per person includes the following:
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Transportation from the airport or bus terminal to the hotel
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Two nights in a hotel - one before trek and one after trek (includes breakfast)
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Transportation from the hotel to Kilimanjaro National Park
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National Park Entry Fees
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Includes entry, camping or hut fees, and rescue fees
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All food on the mountain (3 meals per day)
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Fees for Porters, Cooks, and Guides
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Transportation from Kilimanjaro National Park back to your hotel (after trek)
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Transportation from hotel to airport or bus terminal
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Water is Sourced on the Mountain
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Porters purify natural spring water on the mountain by boiling it. The water is safe to drink, and we will always ensure you have plenty of water available every day.
Deposits
Due to the limited availability of permits to climb the mountain, we must secure your dates with National Park Service as soon as possible. Once we finalize your dates and route, we request a deposit of $250 per person to secure your dates with the National Park Service, Guides, Porters, Transportation Services, and Hotels. Deposits are non-refundable, but we understand that plans change, so in the event that your group size is reduced after booking, we can apply any excess deposit funds received to the remaining cost due upon arrival.
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Payment Methods & Balances Due
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Due to banking regulations in Tanzania, we are not able to accept credit cards. Deposits and final payment information will be provided during the booking process based on your country of origin.
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Tipping is Standard
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It is customary to pay gratuities to guides, porters, and cooks for their services. Base fees charged to you only include minimal stipends for guides and support staff, which are critical to your success and survival on the mountain. Tip amounts vary and guidelines can be found on other online sources. It is not unusual to tip a guide $300 USD or more, and tips are generally paid
Timing is Subject to Seasonality
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We lead treks up Kilimanjaro nearly year-round. However, seasonal rainfall makes all routes impassable in April, early May, and late November.