Kilimanjaro Join Group Departures 2025 – 2026

Machame Route (6–7 Days)

Often called the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is one of Kilimanjaro’s most popular trails. It ascends the southern slope of the mountain and descends via the Mweka route. The trail begins in lush rainforest and quickly climbs into moorland, alpine desert and finally the arctic summit zone. According to trekking guides, the Machame route is considered one of the most scenic paths and has a comparatively high success rate, especially when trekkers opt for the seven‑day itinerary. The longer schedule allows for better acclimatisation because you climb to higher altitude during the day and drop back down to sleep, giving your body time to adjust. The route can become crowded during peak season, so joining a smaller group provides a more personal experience.

Highlights

• Diverse landscapes: rainforest, moorland and alpine desert.

• Good acclimatisation profile on the seven‑day itinerary.

• High summit success rate relative to other routes.

• Descends via a different trail, so you see new scenery on the way down.

Things to consider

• The trail can be busy during the high season due to its popularity.

• The six‑day version is more demanding on acclimatisation; first‑time trekkers should choose the seven‑day option.

7‑Day Machame Route – Full Itinerary – see day‑by‑day details and available departures.

Lemosho Route (7–8 Days)

The Lemosho route begins on Kilimanjaro’s western slope at Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) and is widely regarded as the most beautiful way to climb the mountain. It crosses the entire Shira Plateau, giving trekkers panoramic views of the mountain’s southern face. It joins the Machame trail at Shira Camp and descends via the Mweka route. Follow Alice notes that the Lemosho route offers fantastic scenery and a great acclimatisation profile. Spending seven or eight days on the trail allows your body to adjust gradually, which increases your summit success rate.

Highlights

• Stunning scenery and varied ecosystems; considered the most beautiful route.

• Excellent acclimatisation thanks to its longer duration.

• Crosses the Shira Plateau, a high‑altitude savanna unique to Kilimanjaro.

• Less crowded at the beginning because it starts on the remote western side.

Things to consider

• Slightly more expensive than shorter routes because of its length.

• Requires a longer time commitment (7–8 days).

8‑Day Lemosho Route – Full Itinerary.

Rongai Route (6–7 Days)

Rongai is the only route that ascends Kilimanjaro from the northern side and is considered one of the quietest trails. The climb is a gentle, steady ascent through rainforest and moorland, making it a good option for trekkers seeking an easier gradient. Follow Alice describes Rongai as one of the least‑used ascent routes and notes that it is quieter than other trails. Because it lacks the “climb high, sleep low” profile of other routes, its summit success rate is middling, so proper acclimatisation is essential.

Highlights

• Starts on the remote northern flank, offering solitude and unique views toward Kenya’s Amboseli National Park.

• Gentle gradient makes it physically easier than steeper routes.

• Avoids the Barranco Wall, which some trekkers find intimidating.

• Camps beneath Mawenzi Peak, providing dramatic alpine scenery.

Things to consider

• Lacks “climb high, sleep low” opportunities, so acclimatisation can be more challenging.

• Summit success rate is lower than on the Machame or Lemosho routes.

 7‑Day Rongai Route – Full Itinerary.

Ready to Join?

Browse our 2025–2026 departures and choose the route and dates that fit your travel plans. If our scheduled dates don’t match your availability, we can arrange a private climb on your preferred route at a similar cost. Whether you join a group or climb privately, our certified guides and dedicated support team are here to make your Kilimanjaro adventure safe, memorable and successful.