Kilimanjaro rises from the plains to a height of 5895m above sea level and is the highest free standing mountain in the world as well as being Africa’s highest peak.

Understandably this makes ‘Kili’ a mecca for trekkers and there are several routes up the mountain requiring varying degrees of trekking and climbing technique and ability. It is best to give us as much information as possible about your climbing and trekking experience so we can recommend the most suitable route to match your expectations.

The two most common routes are Machame and Marangu, however these routes can become seriously overcrowded at certain times of the year.
The Marangu route has accommodation in shared huts and ascends and descends by the same route – Marangu has gained the name of The Coca Cola route since it is the most popular. All the other routes are camping routes.

Machame, Lemosho and Umbwe descend via the Mweka exit (Mweka is not normally used to go up, only down). Rongai route descends via the Marangu route.

There are three ascend routes to the summit

• Via Stella point for Lemosho, Machame and Umbwe
• Via Gilman’s point for Rongai and Marangu
• Via the Western Breach Lemosho via Western Breach route

In terms of success rate for reaching the summit, scenic variation, distances covered and acclimatization Authentic Tanzania recommends the Lemosho Glades 10 day trek, although the shorter 8 day Lemosho route is also good for those with less time.

It is important to note that acclimatization will play an important part in the likelihood of reaching the summit - altitude sickness and physical exhaustion are a very real possibility and it is advisable to spend some time in the Kilimanjaro region beforehand or perhaps warm up by climbing Mount Meru.

Full details of acclimatization on lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro

Full details of Mount Meru trek

BEST TIME FOR KILIMANJARO TREK

Mid Jan-mid March and August-mid October are the best months to trek.
As a rough guide expect the following seasons:
Wet – April-June, Dry and warm – Dec-Feb, Dry and cold – July-Sept.

ITINERARIES

Route # 1: Marangu

Route # 2: Machame

Route # 3: Lemosho Glades Route

Route # 4: Umbwe Route

Please ask for full details of all these route itineraries, climate conditions, acclimatization and altitude sickness notes and climb preparation notes.

Set departure dates in 2006 are available for the following routes:

• Machame Route: 6 days/ 5 nights
• Marangu Route: 7 Days/6 nights
• Lemosho Route: 8 days 7 nights
• Umbwe Route: 8 days / 7 nights

Charity and special group climbs can also be organized to a maximum of 30 pax.

Contacts:
Tropical Trails

Full suggested pack list and fact sheet available on request.