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