Kilimanjaro Tours
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro Tours are the focus of many travellers who visit Tanzania, thanks largely to the mountain’s position as one of the Seven Summits and the comparative ease at which it can be climbed. The mountain is often referred to as the roof of Africa, due to its impressive height of 5,895m above sea level and status as the highest free-standing mountain in the world, so it only makes sense that countless intrepid adventurers flock to Tanzania every year with the hopes of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro.
The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, known as Uhuru, can be reached via a number of different routes leading up the mountainside from all directions; however, these vary in terms of difficulty, length, and terrain. While many people look at Kilimanjaro as being one of the easiest of the Seven Summits, the elevation and acclimatization period needed to combat altitude sickness should not be underestimated.
If you plan on trekking up to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, be sure to plan your trip out in advance and prepare yourself for the rigors of the trail, as only 65-70% of attempts result in a successful summit. Even still, the stunning views that stretch out across the African landscape and the feeling of being on top of the world are an unforgettable experience that will make you wonder why you didn’t set out on your Mount Kilimanjaro tour sooner!
When is the Best Time to Visit Mount Kilimanjaro?
The best time to visit Kilimanjaro is in the January to March window, as temperatures at this time are fairly mild with little rain. With that being said, it is actually possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro at any time of year, as its location near the equator means that temperatures don’t fluctuate drastically from season to season.
If you need a more detailed month-to-month breakdown, be sure to check out our article to discover the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
What are the different Kilimanjaro Routes?
While there are a number of different routes you can take when hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, there are 7 main trails leading to the summit. Take some time to explore the links below to discover which Kilimanjaro Route is right for you:
Machame Route
The most popular route leading to the summit of Kilimanjaro, the Machame Route - also known as the Whiskey Route - features beautiful scenery and challenging terrain.
Lemosho Route
One of the newer routes leading up Kilimanajaro, the Lemosho Route is lightly travelled - for now - but has some incredible views!
Shira Route
One of the older routes up the mountain, the Shira Route starts at a higher position on Kilimanjaro, making acclimatization a bit more difficult.
Rongai Route
The only route to approach the summit of Kilimanajaro from the north, the Rongai Route has a more secluded atmosphere.
Northern Circuit Route
The longest and newest of the Kilimanjaro trails, the Northern Circuit Route utilizes parts of the Lemosho Route and some secluded areas on the mountain’s north slope.
Marangu Route
Swapping out tents for permanent huts, the Marangu Route earned its nickname “the Coca-Cola Route” thanks to an increased level of comfort on the trail.
Western Breach via Umbwe Route
Due to the challenging nature of traversing the Western Breach Route, it is only available to experienced alpinists.
Mount Kilimanjaro Map
With all of the different routes on Kilimanjaro, it can be a bit difficult to visualize exactly how you are going to make your way up the mountain. With this in mind, we’ve put together a Mount Kilimanjaro map that highlights all of the main routes leading up to the summit of this iconic peak.
Booking a Kilimanjaro Tour
Let’s face it. Sometimes you want all of the thrill of setting out on an incredible adventure without the hassle of planning every last detail, so why not leave all the fuss to the professionals? Booking a guided Mount Kilimanjaro tour with 10Adventures removes the guesswork that comes with planning a trip in another country, allowing you to focus on making unforgettable memories on the life changing journey ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kilimanjaro
Who was the first person to climb Kilimanjaro?
The first people to successfully climb Mount Kilimanjaro were Ludwid Purtscheller and Hans Meyer in 1889.
How many people climb Kilimanjaro each year?
Approximately 35,000 to 50,000 people are estimated to climb Kilimanjaro each year.
Do I need to book a tour when climbing Kilimanajaro?
While you can certainly spend the time making arrangements yourself, booking a tour is by far the easiest and most time effective way to climb Kilimanjaro.
Where should I stay when visiting Kilimanjaro?
When visiting Mount Kilimanjaro, the best place to stay is Moshi, which has earned the nickname “the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park”.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in the African country of Tanzania.
How long does it take to climb Kilimanajaro?
While it ultimately depends on which route you choose, it generally takes about 6-8 days to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Highlights in Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro
Referred to as the “roof of Africa”, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak on the African continent at 5,895m above sea level and the tallest free-standing peak in the world. Situated in the country of Tanzania, it is a dormant volcano that is made up of three different cones known as Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi. As the tallest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro falls into the list of the Seven Summits; however, it is often seen as one of the easiest to conquer due to its gradual ascent and non-technical terrain.
Mount Meru
Located just west of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is another dormant volcano in Tanzania that is popular with outdoor enthusiasts. While it is a more technical climb, it can be completed in a shorter time frame of 3-4 days, making Mount Meru a great alternative for those who don’t have the extra time to climb Kilimanjaro. Despite losing much of its mass in a summit collapse roughly 7,800 years ago, it is still the fifth-tallest peak in Africa. The area surrounding Mount Meru and its fertile slopes support a wide range of plant and animal species, including large mammals like leopards and over 400 species of birds.
Moshi, Tanzania
Situated in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania, Moshi is an urban center with a population of just over 200,000. It is known as the “gateway to Kilimanjaro National Park,” as it is the main hub from which travellers set out to conquer Africa’s tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Outside of its connection to Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi is also known as one of the major coffee producers in Tanzania, with plenty of coffee producing farms nearby. If you ever plan on trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro, you will almost certainly be spending at least a few nights in Moshi.
Other Adventure Tours Near Kilimanjaro
While Mount Kilimanjaro tours are certainly one of the main attractions for visitors to Tanzania - many of whom have their eye on reaching the summit - there are plenty of other exciting adventures to be experienced in this beautiful corner of Africa. Tanzania’s second-highest peak, Mount Meru, is another incredible trekking destination, and you can never go wrong with heading out on a safari to experience the Great Migration. No matter what dreams you can conjure up for your unforgettable African adventure, you can rest assured that there are plenty of adventure tours in Tanzania that are waiting to be experienced!
Mount Kilimanjaro Guide
Looking for more in-depth information on Mount Kilimanjaro? Whether you are interested in making a guided summit attempt of the tallest peak on the African continent or simply want to plan ahead for an excursion in the not-so-distant future, our Ultimate Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro will provide all of the critical information that you need.
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Chagga Village Cycling Tour
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Get ready to explore the vibrant culture and scenery flanking Moshi in Tanzania on the four-day Chagga Village Cycling Tour. Expect to huff and puff while biking along a fusion of tarmac and dirt roads, but the overall experience makes everything worth it!
Kilimanjaro Guided Bike Tour
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The epic three-day Kilimanjaro Guided Bike Tour will take you to West Kilimanjaro plains, a region in Northern Tanzania comprising both Maasai community lands and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). The area is filled with acacia woodland and open plains that support a remarkable variety of wildlife and spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Moreover, the most common animals in the area include wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, impalas, giraffes, and baboons. Depending on the time of the year, elephants can also be observed as the region lies along an elephant corridor linking Kenya’s Amboseli National Park & Mt. Kilimanjaro.
5-day Mount Kilimanjaro on Marangu Route
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Have you been dreaming of summiting Kilimanjaro? The Mount Kilimanjaro on Marangu Route tour is the perfect opportunity! The Marangu route earns its nickname the “Coca-Cola” route from its comfortable mountain huts that serve the beverage. The wide, gently sloping trail and short route to the top make it a popular choice for trekking Kilimanjaro. The trail does have challenging sections, but you’ll be well-supported by your guide, porters, and cook while you chase the summit!
6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Umbwe Route
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Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, and the Umbwe Route is one of the shortest ways to reach the top. It is also one of the most difficult ascents because it gives you very little time to acclimate to the elevation before you attempt the summit. This route is recommended if you have a lot of trekking experience at high altitude.
6-day Mount Kilimanjaro on Machame Route
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The incredible Mount Kilimanjaro on Machame Route trek is the perfect way to conquer Africa’s tallest mountain! This tour takes you up Mount Kilimanjaro by the Machame route. This popular “Whiskey” route is the most scenic way to trek up the mountain and offers ease of acclimatization. Although it has some of the most challenging sections of trail, it is also longer than some of the other routes, which gives you a better chance to acclimate to the thin air.
6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Marangu Route
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Want to take on Mount Kilimanjaro but unsure of the best way? There is a lot to love about taking this guided trek up the Marangu route in 6 days! The “Coca-Cola” route is popular for its comfortable mountain huts and the convivial atmosphere at camp. The majority of the trail is on wide paths that aren’t too steep, so it’s an excellent way to get adjusted to the high altitude.
6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Rongai Route
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Your guided trek on the Rongai Route begins on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. This approach is not as busy as other routes and provides unique views of Kenya on your first day. Your experienced guides, porters and cooks will help you along your trek as you hike the highest peak in Africa.
7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Umbwe Route
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The Umbwe Route is one of the steepest and most challenging ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This trek is recommended for a seasoned hiker with plenty of experience at high altitudes. Allow your experienced guides, porters, cook, and extra day of rest help you realize your goal of reaching the top of Uhuru Peak.
7-days Mount Kilimanjaro on Machame Route Trek
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Ready to bag the tallest summit in all of Africa? The 7-days Mount Kilimanjaro on Machame Route tour is the way to go! Nicknamed the “Whiskey” route, the Machame route is one of the most popular ways to trek Mount Kilimanjaro. This weeklong tour gives you more time to acclimatize to the elevation, making the summit even more reachable. Expect unreal scenery and an incredible sense of accomplishment!
7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Lemosho Route
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Looking to conquer a mountain? Look no further than the 7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Lemosho Route tour! This guided hiking tour takes the Lemosho Route to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. Your expert guides, porters, and cooks will help you along the way by providing all the support you need to summit the tallest mountain in Africa.
What travellers say
Stephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
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Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
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Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
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Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
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7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Rongai Route
Months Tour Operates
Begin your guided trek on the Rongai Route just south of the Kenyan border, approaching Kilimanjaro from the north. You’ll love this route as it is considered one of the easiest and least travelled paths up the mountain. Expert guides, porters, and cooks will be accompanying you on your hike to make sure that you have an incredible time and the best chance at reaching the summit!
Bike Tour around Mount Kilimanjaro
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Come and experience an exciting, challenging and unforgettable 341km guided cycling tour around the largest free standing mountain in the world, Mt. Kilimanjaro. Over 6 days of cycling you will experience some of Tanzania’s most beautiful landscapes, vibrant villages and wonderful cultures. From the Maasai people who inhabit the arid western plains of Kilimanjaro to the Chagga people who inhabit the foothills of the mountain you will get to discover, experience and learn about these wonderful cultures first-hand.
8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro on Lemosho Route
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Ready to climb the highest mountain in Africa? This tour takes you on a guided trek up Mount Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho route. You won’t have to worry about finding your way, making your meals or carrying your tent with the help of experienced guides, porters and a cook. They’ll provide all the support you need so you can focus on getting to the summit.
9-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
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Give yourself the best chance at reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro by taking the longer Northern Circuit route in 9 days. An experienced team of guides, porters and cooks will provide you with all the support you need for a successful trek up the tallest mountain in Africa!
Mount Kilimanjaro on Machame Route
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Summit Mount Kilimanjaro on this guided tour using the Machame route. The Machame route, otherwise known as the “Whiskey” route, is one of the more popular routes to summit Kilimanjaro. This guided trek to the top of Kilimanjaro is famous for its beautiful and magnificent scenery. Despite being more strenuous compared to the Marangu route, the Machame route has one of the highest success rates for summiting.
Mount Kilimanjaro on Lemosho Route
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If you have ever wondered how it would be to climb Mount Kilimanjaro then this is your opportunity! This guided trek up to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro takes the Lemosho route, a lower traffic route to the summit. This means you have more time to enjoy the amazing scenery and have a high success rate to see the summit.
Mount Kilimanjaro on Machame Route (slower pace)
Months Tour Operates
The 7-day Machame route offers one extra day for acclimatization, meaning a better chance of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. If you’ve dreamed of an African adventure, then the 7-day guided hike up the Machame route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro should be on your list.
8-day Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
Months Tour Operates
This guided tour of the Northern Circuit route will find you at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro and back to Moshi in 8 days. Taking a longer and less travelled route means you’ll get to experience the true wilderness of the mountain while you become acclimatized to the altitude.
Mount Kilimanjaro on Lemosho Route (slower pace)
Months Tour Operates
This 8-day guided trek follows the Lemosho Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy more time to acclimatize on this spectacular trek, more time to enjoy the amazing scenery and have a higher success rate to see the summit.
Mountain bike to the top of Kilimajaro Tour
Months Tour Operates
Looking for the ultimate bucket list adventure? The 9-day Mountain bike to the top of Kilimajaro Tour takes you to the top of Uhuru Peak, the tallest peak in Africa, via the Marangu Route under the knowledge of a trusted guide. Enjoy resting your body at base camps in the evenings, where the blissful sounds of nature play like white noise in the backdrop. As you ride, you will challenge yourself by climbing Kilimanjaro via bike, conquering the roof of Africa. You will see and feel the life of local people on the slopes of Kilimanjaro while passing through several different habitats, seeing numerous animals, and reveling in the reward of some of the most stunning scenes in the world that will stick with you forever.
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