Are you planning a trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro? If so, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is which route to take. There are several options to choose from, each with its own unique features and challenges. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different routes available for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and help you determine which one is the best fit for you.
First, let’s start by taking a look at the various routes that are available for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. There are seven main routes to choose from, each with its own pros and cons.
7 Main routes to choose for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
- The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the most popular and is known for its relative ease and comfortable huts.
- The Machame route, also known as the “Whiskey” route, is a bit more challenging and offers stunning views of the mountain.
- The Umbwe route is the shortest and steepest route, making it the most physically demanding.
- The Rongai route is the only route that approaches the mountain from the north and is known for its less crowded trails and good success rate.
- The Lemosho route is a longer route with a high success rate and beautiful views.
- The Northern Circuit route is the longest route and offers a more diverse range of ecosystems and terrain.
- Finally, the Shira Plateau route is a shorter route that is less crowded and offers a more gradual ascent.
Now that you have an idea of the different routes available, you may be wondering which one is the best for you. The best route for you will depend on a number of factors, including your physical fitness level, your experience with high altitude trekking, and the amount of time you have available.
If you are a beginner or have limited experience with high altitude trekking, you may want to consider a route with a longer timeline and a more gradual ascent, such as the Marangu or Lemosho route.
If you are an experienced climber and are looking for a more challenging route, the Umbwe or Machame route may be a good fit.
No matter which route you choose, it’s important to be prepared and to acclimatize properly to the high altitude. Make sure to consult with a guide or professional organization, and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and successful climb.
In conclusion, choosing the best route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an important decision that will depend on your personal goals and preferences. By considering your physical fitness, experience level, and the amount of time you have available, you can select the route that is the best fit for you and your team.
Which route is the shortest in terms of distance and number of days?
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, has several routes that lead to the summit. The shortest route in terms of distance is the Marangu Route, which is also known as the “Coca-Cola” route because it is the most popular and the least challenging of the routes.
The Marangu Route is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) round trip and takes about 5 to 7 days to complete. However, it is worth noting that the Marangu Route has the lowest success rate for reaching the summit compared to the other routes due to its lower elevation gain and slower ascent.
If you are looking for a more challenging and longer route that offers a higher success rate for reaching the summit, the Machame Route or the Umbwe Route may be more suitable for you.
These routes are longer, with the Machame Route taking about 6 to 8 days to complete and the Umbwe Route taking about 5 to 7 days. However, they offer more scenic views and a higher success rate for reaching the summit due to their steeper ascent and longer acclimatization periods.
It is important to keep in mind that the distance and duration of the route are not the only factors to consider when planning a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. The physical and mental challenges of the climb, as well as the weather conditions and your level of fitness, are also important factors to consider. It is always a good idea to be well-prepared and to choose a route that is suitable for your abilities and experience.
Which route has the best weather conditions for climbing?
The weather conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro can vary significantly depending on the time of year and the route you take. In general, the best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which is from late June to early October and from mid-December to mid-March.
These times tend to have the most stable weather and the least amount of precipitation, which can make the climb more comfortable and enjoyable.
As for the specific routes, the Marangu Route and the Machame Route tend to have the most stable weather, with the Marangu Route generally experiencing drier conditions than the Machame Route.
The Umbwe Route and the Rongai Route also tend to have stable weather, but they may be more prone to fog and cloud cover, which can reduce visibility.
It is worth noting that the weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable and can change quickly, even during the dry season. It is important to be prepared for a range of weather conditions, including hot temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night, as well as potential rain or snow. It is always a good idea to pack appropriately and to listen to the advice of your guide when it comes to preparing for the weather on Kilimanjaro.
