Hiking – Swahili Trippers

9 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Northern Circuit Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:37:46 +0000

Our longest route, both in distance and duration, the ‘Orbit Kilimanjaro’ offers superb acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, minimal traffic, and some challenging terrain. This Northern Circuit starts on the Lemosho Route, offering stunning views of Kibo, the formidable summit cone, from the Shira Plateau, and continues to the striking Lava Tower. From there, the path diverges to explore the northern slopes, circling Kibo, which looms as a constant reminder of the summit goal. This less-traveled route provides a unique experience with few fellow trekkers.

The trail then ascends steeply from the high camp, scrambling over Jamaica Rocks before reaching Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. Your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak are very high. On the descent, you’ll join trekkers from Lemosho and Machame routes. This route is highly recommended if your schedule and budget permit!

8 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Lemosho Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:31:20 +0000

The Lemosho Route is often hailed as the premier path up Mount Kilimanjaro. While Kilimanjaro climbing used to be limited to the Marangu (Coca-Cola) and Machame (Whiskey) routes, the expansion of Tanzania’s tourism has introduced several new trails. Among these, Lemosho stands out for its stunning scenery, isolation, and high success rate. It optimizes climbers’ chances of reaching the summit and enhances their overall experience.

The Lemosho Route typically takes six days (five nights) to complete, but an eight-day (seven-night) trek is recommended for better acclimatization. The adventure begins at Londorossi Gate on the mountain’s western flank, meandering through its lush rainforest. From there, climbers traverse the Shira Plateau, then circle the southern circuit to enjoy panoramic views. The final ascent is made from the east, and the descent follows the Mweka Trail.

7 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Lemosho Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:24:26 +0000

7 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Machame Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:18:12 +0000

The Machame Route, often called the Whiskey Route, is renowned for its challenging terrain compared to the easier Marangu Route, known as the Coca-Cola Route. While the Marangu Route offers a gradual ascent with hut accommodations, the Machame Route features steeper trails, longer distances, and tent camping. Climbers typically spend a minimum of six days (five nights) on the mountain, though the route is often completed over seven days (six nights) for improved acclimatization.

The trek starts at Machame Gate on the southern base of Kilimanjaro, within its lush rainforest. From there, the route ascends towards the Shira Plateau, then takes a southern circuit around the mountain, providing stunning panoramic views. The final ascent to the summit is approached from the east, and the descent is made via the Mweka Trail.

7 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Rongai Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:08:39 +0000

The Rongai Route is the only path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. Although it’s gaining popularity, it still sees low traffic, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to the crowded Marangu Route, a more remote hike, or a climb during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).

The Rongai Route requires a minimum of six days, with seven days recommended. While the scenery may not be as varied as on the western routes, Rongai compensates by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. The descent follows the Marangu Route. This moderately difficult route is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.

7 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Umbwe Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:00:56 +0000

The Umbwe Route is a lesser-known trail that deserves attention. Once considered a difficult path, it is indeed steeper during the first two days but remains accessible to many hikers. Starting from the southern side of Mount Kilimanjaro, it merges with the Lemosho and Machame routes on the third day, just before the Barranco Wall. One notable feature of the Umbwe Route is the solitude you’ll experience during the first two days, as you’ll rarely encounter other trekkers.

The route is available in 6- or 7-day itineraries, with the 7-day option being recommended for beginners without prior acclimatization. This scenic trail offers some of the best views on Kilimanjaro, takes you through all of the mountain’s climatic zones, and allows you to observe its unique flora and fauna.

6 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Rongai Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:54:28 +0000

6 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Umbwe Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:44:43 +0000

6 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Marangu Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:34:44 +0000

The Marangu Route, often known as the “Coca-Cola route,” is the oldest and one of the most popular paths up Mount Kilimanjaro. By choosing this route, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Hans Meyer, who made the first successful summit in 1889. This trail runs through Kilimanjaro National Park, crossing all the mountain’s climatic zones, from tropical forest to alpine desert. Uniquely, it is the only route offering dormitory-style huts for overnight stays.

Thinking about the Marangu Route? It’s a great option during the rainy seasons mid-March to late May, and late October to late December since the huts provide dry and comfortable shelter. The Marangu Route is available in 5- and 6-day variations, with the 6-day option being significantly less strenuous.

6 Days Kilimanjaro’s Hiking Machame Route

gembe — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:33:14 +0000