Discover iconic Mt Kilimanjaro
Standing vigil over Tanzania’s untamed landscapes, the world’s tallest free-standing mountain hails mountaineers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. Mt Kilimanjaro ascends above the clouds, standing at an impressive 5 895 meters (19 340 feet), offering an array of diverse habitats such as lush montane forests and an alpine desert, which concede to sparkling vistas of ice and snow.
Despite its awesome height, Kilimanjaro is a relatively gentle hike; however, guides recommend basic fitness, as the main challenge is posed by the altitude. Those wanting to explore the mountain do not necessarily need to climb to the very top as special excursions cater for short hikes and picnic lunches on the slopes.
MT KILIMANJARO – ROUTES DESCRIPTION
MARANGU ROUTE
The Marangu or main route is by far the most popular way to the summit. The ascent is more gradual and no climbing gear is required. The accommodation on the way up and down is provided in mountain huts with all the basic necessities. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara Hut (2700m) and Kibo Hut (4700m), and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut (3720m) which is also used for descent. Climbers are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags should be brought along. There are communal dining halls, washrooms and toilets. It usually takes 5 days / 4 nights for the round trip. The trek can also be taken in 6 days / 5 nights to add acclimatization with an extra day at Horombo Hut. The supplementary cost for an extra day is indicated separately as an option.
MACHAME ROUTE
This is probably the most scenic route up Kilimanjaro. The accommodation on the way up and down is mobile tents only. This trek is strenuous and may be better suited to more adventurous hikers. The Machame route is normally completed in a minimum of 6 days / 5 nights on the mountain.
RONGAI ROUTE
There is only one route over on the north eastern side of the mountain, Rongai, which is usually a five night climb. This lesser known track may not be quite as spectacular as the western routes, but it does usually have far lower traffic than the other five night routes. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north. It is generally considered to be the easiest of the quality routes on the mountain. Rongai is the best route for people who are looking for a quality experience and are perhaps not absolutely confident about their fitness.
UMBWE ROUTE
The Umbwe route, which is based in the south, is a 6-day / 5-night tour and is said to be the most scenic and difficult one offered on Kilimanjaro. The first two days are extremely steep, muddy and generally strenuous making it only suitable for well-trained mountaineers. An acclimatization day is rarely offered on the standard programme, but can be added whereby giving the climber an extra day in the Karanga Valley. The descent trail is the same as the Mweka Route.
LEMOSHO (SHIRA) GLADES ROUTE
The Lemosho Glades route is perhaps the least used initial ascent route on Kilimanjaro, partly because of its remote location and likewise the difficult roads leading to the trailhead. The road to the trailhead is only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles and can be impassable during wet periods. The trailhead is at relatively high elevation, and thus we start slow and easy on this route. Buffalo and elephant sightings are possible on the first day trekking through the forest, and the trail is often overgrown from lack of use. The route is the longest distance to trek up Kilimanjaro, so fitness certainly plays a role in the enjoyment and success of this trek. The Lemosho (Shira) route takes 7 days / 6 nights on the mountain. Overall, the distance covered and the intensity of the final few days make this trek a good choice only for the experienced hiker. The many changes of scenery and spectacular hike across the Shira Plateau make this trek truly special. There are no huts on this route, the accommodation is in mountain tents.
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