Your guide to
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours & Trips Packages
AdventureTripr offers Mount Kilimanjaro climbing tours & trip packages for various routes with handpicked and vetted local guides. The trip styles range from budget to premium to luxury.
About Mount Kilimanjaro
Inside this article:
With an imposing height of 19,340 feet (5,895 meters), Mount Kilimanjaro stands proudly as the tallest mountain in Africa.
This popular attraction also gets credit for being the tallest freestanding peak in the world.
Often referred to as the ‘common man’s Everest,’ despite its soaring height, Mount Kilimanjaro is easier to climb compared to many other summits in the world.
The most interesting feature of trips to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is the journey takes you through five different climate zones spanning lush rainforests, Alpine deserts and stark glaciers. As you climb the astounding Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro mountain, be ready to witness the breathtaking beauty that nature has to offer!
Kilimanjaro Trip Itineraries
Mt. Kilimanjaro is located near the Kenyan border in Tanzania. This East African gem offers an unparalleled adventure with its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, making it a favorite destination among all African countries.
Tanzania is home to many attractions, including Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Choosing the right climbing Mount Kilimanjaro package allows you to fully experience the treasures of this stunning country.
Mount Kilimanjaro’s Geographical Features
Kilimanjaro is home to some splendid landscapes. At the base of the mountain, lush rainforests filled with exotic flora and fauna will welcome you. As you ascend, you'll enter the moorland, sparkling with its rolling hills and open grasslands. Further up, you'll encounter an alpine desert—a barren landscape of rocks and boulders. Finally, as you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by white sheets of glaciers, formed over thousands of years, making for an enthralling view.
Kilimanjaro Weather
The ever-changing climate in Kilimanjaro means that you always need to be prepared. At the base of Kilimanjaro, the climate is generally warm and dry. As you scale the mountain, temperatures dip and the conditions quickly become colder and wetter.
During the dry seasons, from January to March and from June to October, the region boasts clearer skies with minimal to no rainfall, making your climbing tour safer and more enjoyable. The rains in April, May, and November make Mount Kilimanjaro slippery to scale.
Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
It’s possible to trek to the mountain throughout the year. However, the best times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro without worrying about safety are from January to March and June to October.
If you want to enjoy the trek to Mount Kilimanjaro with fewer crowds, choose the months from January to March. Comparatively, June to October bring more aspiring climbers to the mountain.
It's advisable to avoid trekking during the wet season. However, if you have to climb during April, May and November, opt for the Rongai Route, which starts in the northern region and is drier than other routes.
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Most climbing Kilimanjaro packages offer several routes to trek to the mountain. All these routes promise unique experiences and have their challenges. The five different routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are:
1. Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain via Machame Route
Difficulty Level: Medium
Approximate Distance Covered: 31 miles (49 kilometers)
Trek Duration: 9 days
Success Rate: High
Highlights: Short and steep route | Stunning sightseeing opportunities
The Machame Route or the ‘Whiskey Route,’ is one of the most traveled climbing routes to Mount Kilimanjaro. It starts from the southwest side of the mountain and offers both stunning scenery and challenging terrain. A favorite among climbers, the best part about the Machame route is its gradual ascent, which makes acclimatization easier.
2. Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain via Marangu Route
Difficulty Level: Low
Approximate Distance Covered: 40 miles (64 kilometers)
Trek Duration: 6 days
Success Rate: Low
Highlights: Huts for accommodation | Easiest route
Also known as the ‘Coca-Cola Route,’ the Marangu Route is the oldest path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Being the shortest route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, climbers have less time to acclimatize. However, a bonus is that the Marangu Route offers comfortable mountain huts for accommodation.
3. Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain via Lemosho Route
Difficulty Level: Medium
Approximate Distance Covered: 35 miles (56 kilometers)
Trek Duration: 8 days
Success Rate: High
Highlights: Beautiful views of the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro | Hiking opportunities across the Shira Plateau
If you want to cross a forested route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, then Lemosho Route is for you. Starting from the western side of the mountain, this route is a bit remote, but that's what makes it special. The Lemosho route is known for its scenic beauty and low traffic. The trek meanders through untouched wilderness and offers panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's glaciers. With its longer duration and gradual climb, the Lemosho Route is perfect for acclimatizing and reaching the summit.
4. Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain via Rongai Route
Difficulty Level: Low
Approximate Distance Covered: 41 miles (65 kilometers)
Trek Duration: 7 days
Success Rate: Medium
Highlights: Only northern route to Mount Kilimanjaro | Wildlife encounters and beautiful sunrise views from Mweka Point
The Rongai Route is the only path that leads to Mount Kilimanjaro from the north. This less-traveled route offers a peaceful adventure into the wilderness with great opportunities to spot wildlife. Owing to its gentle climb and diverse landscapes, the Rongai Route offers a more solitary trekking experience through Kilimanjaro's northern slopes.
5. Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain via the Northern Circuit Route
Difficulty Level: High
Approximate Distance Covered: 59 miles (95 kilometers)
Trek Duration: 10 days
Success Rate: High
Highlights: Newest and longest route | Scenic views from Gilman’s Point
The latest addition to the climbing routes to Mount Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic, offering 360-degree views of the entire mountain. Beginning on the western side of Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit Route wraps around the northern side, taking you through diverse landscapes.
The Northern Circuit Route is known for its gradual ascent, allowing more time to acclimatize and increasing the chances of reaching the summit successfully. Along the way, you'll pass picturesque campsites and encounter a variety of wildlife, adding to the overall experience. The route has low climber traffic due to its distance, allowing you to enjoy the hike in tranquility.
What are the Best Routes for Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro?
The best routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are the Lemosho Route and the Machame Route. These routes allow plenty of time for acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing the chances of reaching the summit.
However, if you're looking for the easiest route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, opt for the Marangu Route. It is also the most budget-friendly. However, it’s important to remember that even though it’s the shortest path, it allows for less time for acclimatization; therefore, increasing the risk of altitude sickness due to low oxygen levels.
How to Reach Kilimanjaro?
Option 1: Take a Flight to Kilimanjaro Airport
The best way to reach Mount Kilimanjaro is by flying into Kilimanjaro Airport, which has connections to countries across the world. From the airport, you can take a bus or private taxi to Moshi, Marangu or Arusha. Most trips to climb Mount. Kilimanjaro start from one of these towns in Tanzania.
Option 2: Take a Flight to Julius Nyerere International Airport
You can also fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, which is about 290 miles (468 kilometers) from Mount Kilimanjaro. Being the largest city in Tanzania, it has better international connectivity. Direct buses to Moshi or Arusha are available from the airport.
Option 3: Take a Flight to Nairobi Airport
Another option is to fly into Nairobi Airport, the capital of Kenya. From here, you can either take an hour-long flight to Kilimanjaro or travel by road via bus or private taxi. International flights to Nairobi are usually priced lower than directly to Kilimanjaro.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Tour Package Price
The cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro packages depends on several factors, including:
Climbing route and its duration (longer routes are more expensive)
Your group size
Time of the year (climbs are expensive during peak season from June to October)
Service level and facilities
On average, the cost of Mount Kilimanjaro climb packages varies between $2300 and $3800 per person.
Looking to climb Kilimanjaro on a budget? AdventureTripr offers a variety of affordable Mount Kilimanjaro trek packages.
Why is AdventureTripr.com the best for Mount Kilimanjaro tour packages?
At AdventureTripr, we prioritize adventure. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced hiker, we ensure you enjoy every moment and get your adrenaline pumping.
Our expert guides design well-thought-out Mount Kilimanjaro trek packages that are adventurous, affordable and safe. Moreover, we offer comfortable accommodation choices and seamless logistics. By connecting you with local guides, we provide authentic experiences while keeping costs low.
Additionally, we offer fitness training programs to ensure you're physically and mentally prepared for the treks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Answer 1: Depending on the route taken, your trip to climb Kilimanjaro mountain takes about 8 to 10 days.
Question 2: Do I need training for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
Answer 2: You don’t need specialized hiking skills for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing tours, as this trek is easier than climbing many other peaks across the world. However, reaching the summit, whether it's Stella Point or Uhuru Peak, can be physically demanding. Having a good level of fitness is recommended.
Before the trek, we suggest doing basic fitness exercises that include aerobic activities like running, swimming or cycling. At Adventure Tripr, we also offer training programs to help you prepare for your trip to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Question 3: What should I pack for the climb?
Answer 3: It’s important to carry the right gear to make hiking smooth. Here’s a list of some essentials you must include before you begin your Mount Kilimanjaro climbing tour.
Thermal clothing for the summit attempt
Moisture-wicking layers for the lower levels
Waterproof hiking boots
A sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
A headlamp for early morning or night treks
Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
Insulated water bottles to prevent freezing at higher altitudes
