How to choose the right Kilimanjaro route for your climb (compared routes like Machame, Marangu, lemosho and longai, helping trekkers).

Choosing the right Kilimanjaro route is essential to increase your chances of summit success, stay comfortable, and enjoy the scenery. Here’s a comparison of the most popular routes: Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, and Rongai  with a breakdown to help trekkers decide.

Quick Comparison Table

Route	Duration	Scenery	Acclimatization	Crowds	Accommodation	Success Rate
Machame	6-7 days	Excellent	Good	Busy	Camping	High
Marangu	5-6 days	Good	Fair	Moderate	Huts (dorm-style)	Moderate
Lemosho	7-8 days	Outstanding	Excellent	Less crowded	Camping	Very High
Rongai	6-7 days	Moderate/Varied	Good	Quietest route	Camping	High

Machame Route (“Whiskey Route”)

• Pros:
  • Very scenic (forests, ridges, glaciers)
  • Good acclimatization via “climb high, sleep low”
  • High success rate
• Cons:
  • Can be crowded during peak seasons
• Best For: Trekkers who want a scenic and challenging climb and are okay with camping.

Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola Route”)

• Pros:
  • Only route with hut accommodation
  • Shorter, cheaper, and more comfortable sleeping arrangements
• Cons:
  • Less time to acclimatize (unless you do 6-day version)
  • Shared dorms can get busy
• Best For: Beginners or those who prefer not to camp

Lemosho Route

• Pros:
  • Most scenic and varied route (rainforest, moorland, alpine desert)
  • Starts on quieter western side of Kilimanjaro
  • Long route allows best acclimatization
• Cons:
  • Slightly more expensive (longer and remote)
• Best For: Trekkers who want maximum success chance, beautiful scenery, and less traffic

Rongai Route

• Pros:
  • Least crowded route
  • Starts from the dry northern side, so good in wet season
  • Unique scenery and gentle ascent
• Cons:
  • Less scenic than Machame/Lemosho until summit
• Best For: Those seeking quiet paths or climbing during the rainy season