Climb Africa’s highest mountain
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain, at about 5,895 metres. It sits within Kilimanjaro National Park in northern Tanzania and can be climbed by several routes without technical climbing equipment.
Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. Uhuru Peak, on the rim of Kibo, is the highest point. The mountain rises from farmland through rainforest, moorland and alpine desert to a glaciated summit.
Most climbers choose a route and itinerary length that suit their fitness and goals. A longer climb gives more time to acclimatise, which improves comfort and the chance of reaching the summit. All climbs require a licensed guide and crew.
Start PlanningMount Kilimanjaro National Park at a glance
The essentials travellers search for most, in one place.
- Location
- Kilimanjaro Region, northern Tanzania
- Highest point
- Uhuru Peak, about 5,895 m
- Park established
- 1973
- World Heritage Site
- Since 1987
- Managed by
- Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA)
- Popular routes
- Machame, Lemosho, Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit
- Climbing style
- Non-technical trek; high altitude is the challenge
- Required
- Licensed guide, porters and park permits
- Best time to climb
- January to mid-March and June to October
- Wet seasons
- Mid-March to May and November
- Typical climb
- 6 to 9 days
- Park fees
- Set by TANAPA and revised periodically; we confirm current rates when quoting
Experience Kilimanjaro your way
Choose a route for the scenery, the crowds and the pace that suits you. The right itinerary matters more than the route name.
Scenic Routes and Valleys
Some routes cross dramatic valleys and walls, such as Barranco on the Machame route, with steady, rewarding walking.
Alpine Plants and Moorland
The heath and moorland zones include giant groundsels and lobelias, which are among the mountain’s most unusual sights.
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Summit Day
Summit night is cold and demanding, with an early start for sunrise on Kibo’s rim. Guides and pacing are crucial.
Popular Kilimanjaro routes compared
Each route has its own scenery, pace and acclimatisation profile.
Machame
Popular and scenic, usually 6 to 7 days, with good acclimatisation if done slowly.
Lemosho
A longer, quieter route with strong acclimatisation, often 7 to 8 days.
Marangu
Hut-based and often called the “Coca-Cola” route. Shorter itineraries can reduce success.
Rongai
Approaches from the north and is often drier, a good choice in wetter months.
Drier months give the best conditions
Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the driest periods usually give clearer skies and easier trails. The rainy seasons bring wetter, colder conditions.
- Jan–MarWarm and often drier. Clear mornings, with good summit chances.
- Mar–MayLong rains. Wet and cloudy, with fewer climbers.
- Jun–OctMain dry season and the busiest. Cold nights and clear views.
- Nov–DecShort rains. Mixed conditions, with some clear periods.
How Kilimanjaro compares with other Tanzania trekking
Kilimanjaro is the headline climb. Mount Meru and Ol Doinyo Lengai offer shorter alternatives.
Kilimanjaro vs Mount Meru
Meru is shorter and often used as a warm-up. Kilimanjaro is higher and longer.
Kilimanjaro vs Ol Doinyo Lengai
Lengai is a short, steep night climb. Kilimanjaro is a multi-day mountain trek.
Kilimanjaro and safari
Many climbers add a safari to Tarangire, Ngorongoro or Serengeti after the trek.
Plan your Kilimanjaro climb
A well-planned climb starts with the right route, enough days and a good crew. Adhama Africa Adventures can help.
Pick the right length
More days means better acclimatisation. We recommend allowing at least 7 days where possible.
Prepare physically
Hiking with a daypack, stairs and endurance training help. No technical skills are needed.
Add a safari
A post-climb safari in Tarangire, Ngorongoro or Serengeti is a popular way to finish.
Let’s plan your Kilimanjaro climb
Tell us your dates, fitness and preferred route. We’ll help you choose a climb that fits.
Helpful things to know before you go
How high is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Uhuru Peak, the highest point, is about 5,895 metres above sea level.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is in northern Tanzania, in the Kilimanjaro Region near the town of Moshi.
Do you need climbing experience for Kilimanjaro?
No technical climbing skills are required, but you need good fitness and a plan for altitude.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
January to mid-March and June to October are generally the best periods because they are drier.
How many days do you need to climb Kilimanjaro?
Most itineraries take 6 to 9 days. Longer climbs improve acclimatisation.
What are the main Kilimanjaro routes?
The main routes are Machame, Lemosho, Marangu, Rongai, Umbwe and the Northern Circuit. Mweka is used for descent.
Can you combine Kilimanjaro with a safari?
Yes. Many travellers add Tarangire, Ngorongoro or Serengeti after the climb.
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