Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and a popular destination for climbers from around the world. Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro stands at a towering 19,341 feet (5,895 meters) and offers a challenging but rewarding climb for those who are physically fit and properly prepared.

There are several routes to the summit of Kilimanjaro, each with its own unique features and challenges. The most popular route is the Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, which is known for its relative ease and well-maintained huts. However, it is also the busiest route and has the lowest success rate for reaching the summit.

Do you know?
Mount Kilimanjaro is made up of three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira

For those seeking a more challenging and less crowded route, the Machame Route is a good option. This route is known for its beautiful scenery and has a higher success rate for reaching the summit compared to the Marangu Route. It also offers the option to add on an extra acclimatization day, which can improve your chances of reaching the summit.

Another popular route is the Umbwe Route, which is the shortest and most direct route to the summit. It is a steep and challenging route and is recommended for experienced climbers in good physical condition.

Regardless of which route you choose, it is important to properly acclimatize and be physically fit in order to increase your chances of success. It is also essential to be properly equipped with the right gear, such as warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and a first aid kit.

Did you know?
The first recorded ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro was made in 1889 by Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller.

Hiring a reputable and experienced guide is also highly recommended, as they can provide valuable assistance and support during the climb. They can also help ensure that you are properly prepared and have the necessary supplies and equipment.

Why Choose Lemosho Route?

Certainly! The Lemosho Route is another popular option for climbing Kilimanjaro. It is a longer route than the Marangu, Machame, or Umbwe routes, and offers a more gradual ascent, which can help with acclimatization. The Lemosho Route is known for its beautiful scenery and relatively low crowds, making it a great option for those seeking a more peaceful and serene climbing experience.

One of the benefits of the Lemosho Route is that it starts at a lower elevation and takes a more circuitous route to the summit, allowing for a more gradual ascent and better acclimatization. This can increase your chances of reaching the summit, as proper acclimatization is crucial for success on the mountain.

The Lemosho Route also offers a variety of different campsites and huts along the way, providing a range of accommodation options for climbers. It is important to note that the Lemosho Route does require a longer time commitment, as it takes an average of 8-9 days to complete the climb.

Lemosho vs Marangu Route

The Marangu Route and the Lemosho Route are both popular options for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, but they have some key differences to consider when deciding which route is best for you.

One of the main differences between the Marangu Route and the Lemosho Route is the length of the climb. The Marangu Route is the shortest route to the summit, taking an average of 5-6 days to complete, while the Lemosho Route is longer, taking an average of 8-9 days. This means that the Marangu Route is a more time-efficient option, but it also means that climbers have less time to acclimatize to the high altitude.

Another key difference between the Marangu Route and the Lemosho Route is the level of difficulty. The Marangu Route is generally considered to be the easiest route up Kilimanjaro, with a well-maintained path and a series of huts providing accommodation along the way. The Lemosho Route, on the other hand, is a more challenging route, with a steeper ascent and a greater distance to cover. It is generally considered to be a better option for experienced climbers who are in good physical condition.

In terms of scenery, the Lemosho Route is generally considered to be more scenic, with a variety of different landscapes and ecosystems to explore along the way. The Marangu Route, on the other hand, is known for its lush rainforest, but the scenery becomes more barren as you get closer to the summit.

Overall, the Marangu Route is a good option for those who are looking for a shorter and easier climb, while the Lemosho Route is a better choice for those who want a longer and more challenging experience with more diverse scenery. It is important to consider your own physical fitness and climbing experience when deciding which route is best for you.