What’s the Best Kilimanjaro Route For You?

Here is the Zara Tours Quick Summary

Explore Kilimanjaro’s 7 Climbing Routes

Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, peaking at an impressive 5895 meters high. Located in Tanzania, East Africa, its snow-capped summit is visible for miles. Climbers, trekkers, and adventurers come from around the globe to check their bucket list and fulfill their goal of summiting the dormant volcano. 

There are many routes to reach the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, but which one is best for you?  With seven unique routes to choose from, you have the luxury of picking the right route for you based on your desires, experience and knowledge.  

This article will help you determine the right Kilimanjaro route for you, considering the following route features:  

• Acclimation time and ease
• Difficulty
• Traffic
• Accommodations while on the route
• Time to summit
• Safety 
• Success rate

Taking on Kilimanjaro is an enormous challenge and one of the most substantial goals you’re likely to ever undertake. Let’s help you get there!

An Overview of Kilimanjaro’s 7 Routes 

Marangu Route – The Tourist Route

Distance: 70km / 5 – 6 Days

Difficulty: Medium

Scenery: Good 

Traffic: High

Success rate: Low

The Marangu Route is the oldest, most established route to the top of the mountain. It’s known as the Tourist Route or the Coca-Cola Route due to its popularity and the fact that Coca-Cola used to be sold in all the huts along the way. This is one of the most accessible routes up the mountain. It follows a steady, gradual slope until the last day of trekking when the incline significantly increases.

The route has a low success rate because the five-day climb doesn’t allow for sufficient acclimatization. Also, the Marangu Route tends to attract unprepared and untrained tourists, resulting in many people having to turn around before reaching the top of Kilimanjaro, known as Uhuru Peak.

The Marangu Route is the only route on the mountain that uses the same path up and down, so expect it to be busier than other options. This route is the only route with dormitory-style huts along the way, as camping is not permitted. 

If you would rather sleep in a hut instead of a tent, then this may be the right option for you!

Machame Route – The Popular Route

Distance: 61km / 6 – 7 Days

Difficulty: High

Scenery: Stunning

Traffic: High

Success rate: High

The Machame Route is one of the more scenic routes to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This route is also known as the Whiskey Route because it’s a more strenuous climb than the Marangu (Coca-Cola) Route. Although the climb is more complex, it has a much higher success rate than the Marangu Route.

There are six-day and seven-day itinerary options, with the preferred option being the seven-day route, allowing for an extra day of altitude acclimating with its climb-high and sleep-low conditions. 

The route has some steep sections and involves numerous ups and downs, including taking on the challenge of the Barranco Wall. However, with the proper preparation, the Machame Route is achievable, and the stunning scenery along the way only heightens the experience. 

Expect to trek through four diverse climate zones and enjoy sights such as the Shira Plateau and the Lava Tower. It is also the route that we take to the roof of Africa! 

Lemosho Route – The Most Scenic (But Most Expensive) Route

Distance: 67km / 7 – 8 Days

Difficulty: High

Scenery: Stunning

Traffic: Medium

Success rate: Second highest of all routes

The Lemosho Route departs from the west side of the mountain, offering plenty of spectacular views of the dramatic gorges of the western side of Kilimanjaro. The route starts by taking you through the remote rainforest before joining the Machame Route. 

Lemosho is a popular climb because of its panoramic views, low traffic, and high success rate. 

This route can be completed in either seven or eight days, with plenty of time for acclimatization. Because this route is remote and lasts longer than the other routes, expect to pay more for this option. 

While this is considered one of the easier climbs, a high level of physical fitness is recommended. 

Shira Route – The Poor Acclimatization Route

Distance: 58km / 6 – 7 Days

Difficulty: High

Scenery: Stunning

Traffic: Medium

Success rate: High

The Shira Route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro but with a higher start point than Lemosho. The first day of the route follows a four-wheel-drive path and can therefore either be trekked or driven. However, driving will reduce the amount of time your body has to acclimate, as you will be starting the trek at a height of over 3,500 meters!

The Shira Route can be completed in six or seven days, and you should be confident in your hiking ability. There are fewer people on the route than on the Machame Trail, and it is another of the more expensive options. 

If you’re not a more advanced trekker or if you’re prone to altitude sickness, this route isn’t for you. 

Rongai Route – The Easiest Route

Distance: 74km / 6 – 7 Days

Difficulty: Medium

Scenery: Great

Traffic: Low

Success rate: High

The Rongai Route is the only route starting north of the mountain, near the Kenyan border. This route is much drier than the southern slopes and is therefore preferred during the wet season. The route is less scenic than other options; however, the camp beneath Mawenzi Peak is one of the most sensational on the mountain.

The hike has a steady, gradual climb to start with, and the camps are well staggered out. The itinerary is usually seven days long, with a high success rate of reaching Uhuru Peak, although it’s moderately difficult. 

Be prepared to pass through remote areas with abundant wildlife!

Umbwe Route – The Most Difficult Route

Distance: 48km / 5 – 7 Days

Difficulty: Very high

Scenery: Great

Traffic: Low

Success rate: Low

The Umbwe Route involves a rapid ascent to Barranco Camp, reaching the camp on the second night rather than the third or fourth as per alternative routes. The route is very steep and exposed and not suitable for people who are scared of heights or for untrained climbers, as this climb is steep and constant. 

This is the most demanding of all seven routes, with poor acclimating opportunities because of its rapid ascent, and shouldn’t be taken on unless you have experience in mountain climbing. The demands of the Umbwe Route make traffic low, with the scenery a big plus.

Northern Circuit – The Longest Route

Distance: 88km / 8 – 9 Days

Difficulty: High

Scenery: Great

Traffic: Low

Success rate: Highest of all routes

This is the longest route to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro, with one of the highest success rates. The trek takes either eight or nine days, with plenty of climb-high, sleep-low opportunities, which is excellent for acclimating to the altitude as you go.

The trek starts west of the mountain and follows the Lemosho Route for the first two days. The route then veers north near Lava Tower and traverses around the mountain to the summit.  

With little traffic and a more private, quiet traverse, you’ll experience the longest climb of all routes on the Northern Circuit but you’ll love every second due to its incredible scenery throughout. 

Is Summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro For You?

If you are ready to take on Mt. Kilimanjaro, Zara Tours has award-winning guides, creates an amazing experience, and will provide the best options for you. We’ve helped people of all ages and levels of climbing experience summit Mt. Kilimanjaro. 

Our guides are trained and eager to help you acclimate, and our safety methods are proven and advanced. With your determination and our guidance, we’re confident in your success!
For more details on our itineraries, check out our Kilimanjaro climbing packages.

OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE NGORONGORO PRE-SCHOOL IN NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA – TANZANIA

The founder of the Zara Charity and Zainab Ansel, the director of Zara Tours, are pleased to announce the official opening of the Ngorongoro pre-school in Enduleni Village in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

 

As a developing country, Tanzania struggles to provide a high quality of infrastructure and education, and the Maasai community has one of the highest illiteracy and lowest school enrolment rates in East Africa. This is primarily due to a lack of schools and their pastoral way of life. Maasai children have been known to walk barefoot for up to 20km to a primary school within parks where there is a danger of an animal attack.

The cost of education remains a large obstacle. Most families live on less than US$0.80 per day and it’s not rare for a family to have around eight children, while some Maasai warriors have up to 60 wives. Research shows that nearly 60% of Maasai children under five years old are physically stunted, which is an indicator of chronic malnutrition. Studies also show that only 5% of elementary school students continue to high school, and that girls are the most disadvantaged as they are expected to stay at home to help their mother take care of the house and family.

With an average ratio of 72 students to one teacher, four million new primary school teachers were needed in East Africa to reach the goal of offering primary education to all children by 2015. Crowded and dilapidated classrooms, coupled with insufficient teaching resources and instruction time, reflect a far below average standard of educational institutions.

As part of Zara Tours’ sustainable tourism plan, Zara Charity strongly believes that education is the key to a better future that will break the cycle of impoverished communities. That is why we decided to promote education in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area by building a pre-school at which 43 children are currently registered. We focus on building a support system for children by constructing better facilities in which to learn, ensuring access to safe and healthy learning environments, strengthening teaching quality, and providing scholarships.

Student sponsorship covers the cost of enrolment fees, school materials and uniforms, as well as regular monitoring and support from the Zara Charity. It also provides students with access to medical services.

One of the most rewarding aspects of sponsorship is getting to know a student personally and seeing the positive effect on their life. We provide various ways for sponsors to form this personal bond, including sending regular updates of the student’s report cards and living situation, and giving the option to send letters directly. Sponsors can also meet the student and their family in Tanzania, and they can combine their trip with an affordable safari package or trek up Mt. Kilimanjaro.

To sponsor a student through pre-school, the cost of one full year is US$850, which works out at just US$2.30 per day. Co-sponsorship and paying in monthly instalments are also options. For more information on our Student Sponsorship Programme, please contact: zara@zaracharitytanzania.org and/or zainab@zaratours.com or Donate to our fund rising page here

 

 

MACON LEADS CLIMB OF MOUNT KILIMANJARO TO HELP END POLIO NOW

TANZANIA, AFRICA – Members and climbers from around the world will climb Mount Kilimanjaro with skilled guide Macon Dunnagan in June and August to raise funds for End Polio Now.

Tanzanian Honorary Tourism Ambassador Macon has climbed to the top of ‪Mount Kilimanjaro 36 times and holds the record of 4 climbs in 28 days. He has often helped organizations and clubs like Rotary’s End Polio Now and Ovarian Cancer Canada plan Kilimanjaro fundraising climbs, lending his expertise to help climbers make a difference.

June 22-27 and August 2-7 of 2015, Macon will be returning to climb Kilimanjaro for the 37th and 38th time. The two groups will travel 54 miles to the top over a period of 6 days, and will raise money for the fight against polio around the world.

Climbers and Rotarians around the world are challenged to take this opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience while helping to eradicate a globally devastating disease. Funds raised will be given to the World Health Organization for polio immunization, surveillance, and research.

When he’s not scaling mountains to save lives, Macon is a safari guide for the Serengeti Ngorongoro Crater and presents at travel shows about climbing Kilimanjaro and going on safari. He has acted as guide for many of Zara Tours successful Kilimanjaro climbs.

For more information about this tour please follow the link bellow https://www.zaratours.com/sp…/climb-with-macon-dunnagan.html and/or Email: zara@zaratours.com

About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, ‪German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.

THE BEAUTY OF AFRICA WITH ZARA TANZANIA ADVENTURES

Introducing Tanzania: Wildlife, beaches, ruins, Mt Kilimanjaro, friendly people, fascinating cultures – Tanzania has all these and more wrapped up in one adventurous, welcoming package.

Captivating Cultures

Wherever you go, opportunities abound for getting to know Tanzania’s people and cultures. Meet red-cloaked Maasai warriors. Spend time with the semi-nomadic Barabaig near Mt Hanang. Experience the hospitality of a local meal or the rhythms of traditional dance. Watch Makonde carvers bring wood to life. Chat and barter at local markets in the Usambara Mountains. More than anything else, it is Tanzanians themselves – with their characteristic warmth and politeness, and the dignity and beauty of their cultures – who make a visit so memorable. Chances are that you’ll want to come back for more, to which most Tanzanians will say ‘karibu tena’ (welcome again).

Idyllic Beaches

It’s not just the wildlife that enchants. Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coastline is also magical, with tranquil islands and sleepy coastal villages steeped in centuries of Swahili culture. Travel back in time to the days when the East African coast was the seat of sultans and a linchpin in a far-flung trading network extending to Persia, India and beyond. Relax on powdery beaches. Take in pastel-hued sunrises, immerse yourself in languid coastal rhythms, and sit beneath billowing sails on a wooden dhow.

Mt Kilimanjaro

Inland, Mt Kilimanjaro beckons, its graceful, forested flanks rising up to a stately snow-capped summit. It is Africa’s highest peak and one of the world’s highest freestanding mountains. Climbers by the thousands venture here to challenge themselves on its muddy slopes, rocky trails and slippery scree. The rewards: the thrill of standing at the top of Africa; magnificent views of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields; and witnessing the sunrise illuminating the plains far below.

Why I Love Tanzania

By Mary Fitzpatrick, Author

I love Tanzania because of the light, colors and life in almost every scene. Especially at dawn: the rising sun floods the cool grasslands with gold, school children walk along the roadsides and vendors set out their wares. And when nature surrounds you, there is exuberance everywhere: the largest of animals mingle with the most minute; birds of every size and color soar and sing; trees and plants burst with flowers; landscapes are colorful and diverse. Mostly, though, it’s because of the equanimity, charm, dignity and welcome offered by so many Tanzanians.

Wonderful Wildlife

More than almost any other destination, Tanzania is the land of safaris. Wildebeest stampede across the plains. Hippos jostle for space in muddy waterways. Elephants wander along seasonal migration routes and chimpanzees swing through the treetops. Throughout the country, there are unparalleled opportunities to experience this natural wealth. Take a boat safari down the Rufiji River past snoozing crocodiles in Selous Game Reserve. Watch giraffes silhouetted against ancient baobab trees in Ruaha National Park. Sit motionless as waterbirds peck in the shallows around Rubondo Island. Drive to Serengeti to witness the greatest wildlife show on Earth. Hold your breath while a lion pads in front of your vehicle in Ngorongoro Crater.

About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in #Tanzania and one of the largest safari operator in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as#orphans, #maasai womengroup, and more.

www.zaratours.com, www.zaratoursadventures.com,www.zaraproperties.com, www.zaracharitytanzania.org Email: zara@zaratours.com

WIM HOF GROUP TO SCALE THE KILIMANJARO IN SHORTS.

IN a bid to promote and make sure that other world clinical researchers are fully participate in the various studies on ‘Wim Hof method of breathing’ that enables the human body to multiply red blood cells, a group of 18 volunteers under the leadership of the world record holder – Wim Hof ‘Iceman’ has visited the Kilimanjaro Clinical Research institute (KCRI) aiming at ‘exchanging’ scientific data on this method.

The ‘Iceman’ and his group from Holland visited the Centre one day before starting their ‘Unique’ expedition of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro ( the Roof of Africa) to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 Metres) in 36 hours while wearing shoes and shorts only.

In an exclusive interview with this paper recently at KCRI where they met the acting director of the leading Clinical Research Center in Tanzania, Ms Rogathe Machange, hof who has 25 Guinness Records explained that they will climb mount Kilimanjaro using the famous route under the guidance of a Moshi – based tour company – Zara Tanzania adventures.

“Early last year I guided a group of 25 Mount Kilimanjaro trekkers who managed to make it to the highest summits of the mountain which are Gilman’s point (5,681 Metres) and Uhuru peak (5,895 metres) within 48 hours…. They were also wearing shoes and shorts only,” he explained.

He said the key challenge is to maintain control of the body under extreme conditions as the freezing temperature at the summit can range between 18 and 26 centigrade and reach the summit at nearly six thousand meters in only 36 hours (instead of the usual six days).“The climbing speed we are using does not give the body time to acclimatise, “ he stated.

Hof noted that on the first day they will climb 3,800 meters and the following day they will scale the mountain up to 4,700 meters and on the last climb all the way to the top of the mountain.

The crew will have to maintain control of mind and body while dealing with the major risks of hypothermia and Acute Mountain sickness (AMS)

Hof has won 25 world records including climbing the world’s highest mountain, Mt Everest in an empty chest, run a marathon beyond the polar Cycle and swimming under the Ice (after making holes) among many others.

“ However, these capabilities are not unique to me and in fact, I have achieved similar encouraging results with many patients with auto-immune diseases of joint such as arthritis and rheumatism as well as nerves and muscles such as ALS and myasthenia gravies,” he specified.

One of the climbers, Leon leijten from Holland said that the project’s goal is to show that anyone can accomplish to such an extraordinary world record.

Given the global interest for this challenge, an international documentary will be produced so that everyone is able to follow closely the crew’s journey on mount Kilimanjaro, he further observed.

Hof has been working with documentary producers from the BBC, Discovery Channel and the National Geographic for Quite some time.

“The latest documentary on his extraordinary performances in icceland will be a great success. And the entire Journey will be filmed for a full-length feature documentary on how to stay In Control on Kilimanjaro,” Leijten pointed out.

Hance Shaban kuyegana from Zara Tanzania Adventures who led the group to KCRI explained that, it is the second time for their company to host Wim Hof and his group where by, last they met it to Uhuru peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro (5,895m ASL) within 48 hours only under the leadership of professional mountain guide from Zara Tours, Joseph Marandu Alias.

About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.

Taking Three Generations to the Top – Age Is No Boundary When Conquering Kili

A 76 year old grandfather reached the summit of Kilimanjaro with his son and young grand-daughter, 57 years his junior. He revealed the secret of his success to Tanzania’s leading businesswoman Zainab A. Ansell, who thought she’d seen it all.

When you’re in the business of hosting thousands of travellers as they set off for the summit of one of the world’s most famous mountains, you’d think you’d seen it all. Yet for Zainab A. Ansell, there’s always something new and inspiring on the horizon.

Kilimanjaro Trips: Sharing the Wealth of Africa with One Another

Kilimanjaro trips do more than just take you to the “Roof of Africa” and back. A portion of the proceeds supports the local community through Zara Charities. One beneficiary of this support is the Kilimanjaro Orphanage Center.