FAQ’s

Find answers to your questions before joining a tour so that you can find out exactly what you want to know. If you have more question please feel free to reach us.

How many route lead to Kilimanjaro summit?

There are eight routes designed for hiking to Kilimanjaro. Only one of these routes allows hikers to return via the same route. The following is a brief description of each route:

• Lemosho Route is the most scenic path with an excellent acclimatisation profile. Although it was relatively quiet a decade ago, it is now experiencing a significant increase in popularity. The 6- and 7-day Lemosho itineraries, sometimes referred to as the Shira route, commence at a high-altitude drop-off point. An off-road vehicle will transport you to an elevation of 3,407 m/11,177 ft, where the hike will commence. This approach facilitates the process of acclimatisation by allowing hikers to spend more nights at higher altitudes.

• The Machame Route , also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is the most popular path on the mountain. It offers breathtaking views and an effective acclimatisation process. The route begins at Machame Gate on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro and progresses through the tropical forest and multiple climatic zones, ultimately reaching the Arctic desert zone at the summit.
• The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola route”, is another highly popular Kilimanjaro route. It is the only route that provides overnight stays in huts. The huts provide dormitory-style accommodation. The Marangu route commences at Marangu Gate, located to the southeast of Mt. Kilimanjaro. It ascends the summit and then returns via the same trail.
• The Rongai Route is the sole route that originates from the northern slope, offering a distinctive experience that is well-suited to climbing Kilimanjaro during the rainy seasons. It traverses Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones, providing a distinctive vantage point, while the return journey through Marangu offers views of both sides of the mountain. The Rongai Route is an excellent option for those seeking to circumvent the Barranco Wall.
• The Northern Circuit Route is the longest route on Kilimanjaro and offers climbers the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful trek and observe the mountain from a variety of perspectives. This trail, which shares the trailhead with the Lemosho route, experiences only 5% of the traffic volume of Lemosho. It is well-suited for individuals seeking extended trekking experiences in remote wilderness areas with minimal crowds and a gradual slope.
•  Umbwe Route is regarded as the most challenging route to Kilimanjaro, offering a relatively short and uncrowded route during the initial days. The six-day variation is designed for experienced high-altitude trekkers, while the new seven-day itinerary is suitable for fit beginners. While the initial two days on Umbwe present a significant challenge, the subsequent trek becomes more manageable.
• Kilema Route is the sole mountain bike trek on Kilimanjaro, running parallel to the Marangu route and converging with it at the Horomobo Huts Camp. We are pleased to offer specialised expeditions for true mountain biking enthusiasts, which few people are aware of.
• Western Breach– This rarely used path is a shortcut to Kilimanjaro’s summit that few operators know how to navigate. The reason is simple: there is a real danger of rockfalls.

What are the best Kilimanjaro routes?

If you want to hear a quick answer, we would say that the Lemosho route is hands down our team’s and our clients’ favourite! Lemosho is the perfect choice for your Kilimanjaro adventure! Not only does it offer a great acclimatisation profile, scenic views and the highest success rate according to our analytics for the last 10 years, but it’s also one of the most popular routes with our clients. However, this beautiful Kilimanjaro route has gained a lot of popularity in recent years and is now in the top 3 most busy routes, which just goes to show how much people love it! If you’re looking for a more private experience, consider the Rongai route itinerary. While it may not be as scenic or have the impressive fauna like Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, it’s more than 10 times less crowded than the popular routes, which is great if you want to enjoy the mountain in peace!

What is the easiest route to climb Kilimanjaro?

The main challenge on Mount Kilimanjaro is the altitude, not the steep inclines or lengthy treks. The most effective acclimatisation profiles are the most straightforward. We recommend the Lemosho 7-8, Rongai 7, and Machame 7 days. The Lemosho route is the most accessible way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The route begins at 3,500 metres, eliminating the need for ascents of that altitude. The initial daily hikes are short, preventing overexertion. All overnight stays are at 3,500 metres or above, facilitating better acclimatisation. Additionally, the route from Barafu Camp to the summit is the shortest.

Which Kilimanjaro route has the highest summit success rate?

The 7- and 8-day Lemosho routes have the highest summit success rate, at approximately 98%. Most climbers reach the summit via the Lemosho route. If you’re curious, we can provide further information. The route offers effective acclimatisation, numerous “climb high, sleep low” opportunities and sufficient time at altitude. Most seven-day+ itineraries on the mountain have excellent summit success rates.
Success rates vary between operators. A budget tour company may not be able to safely take you to Uhuru Peak. Operators often claim success rates above 95%. These figures are misleading. Reputable operators, like Polepole African Experience, ensure clients have the best chance of summiting. Our success rates on Lemosho 7 and 8 are up to 98%

Which Kilimanjaro route has the least crowds?

The Rongai and Northern Circuit routes are renowned for offering visitors the opportunity to experience the trail in relative solitude, with minimal congestion from other hikers. The initial stages of the Umbwe route offer the opportunity to appreciate the tranquil landscapes, which are free from large groups of hikers.
It would be advisable to avoid the peak seasons, which are July to September and January to February. To avoid crowds, it is advisable to climb just before or after the high season. The first part of March, the beginning of June and the end of October are all suitable periods when the weather is still good, but there are much fewer climbers on the trails.

How do I choose the perfect route for my expedition?

Please take a moment to envisage the kind of experience you would like your Kilimanjaro climb to be. Are you a photographer seeking the ideal location and the most scenic route? Are you an experienced climber seeking a new challenge? Or perhaps you are a parent with teenage children who is looking for a route that is straightforward and offers excellent acclimatisation opportunities? Our team is here to ensure that your dream is realised. Please select the option that best reflects your requirements.

1. Are you looking for the smoothest acclimatization profile and the highest success rate? In light of the above, we would suggest that the Lemosho 7 and 8-day itineraries represent the optimal route for those wishing to climb Kilimanjaro. As previously stated, a seven-day itinerary on the majority of routes would provide sufficient time for acclimatisation and a high probability of success.
Lemosho route 7-8 days
Rongai route 7 days
Machame route 7 days

2. Do you prefer sleeping in a tents or in huts?. Do you want to sleep under the stars and feel the night air on your skin? Or do you prefer the comfort of a hut? Well, the Marangu route is the only one that offers dormitory-style accommodation! So, if you’re looking for a unique experience, then Marangu is the perfect choice for you

3. Are you planning the hike during rain season? Then there are the fantastic options of Rongai and Marangu! Rongai is perfectly placed for your climb, with much less rain in its northern location. And Marangu’s huts are there to make your ascent as comfortable and safe as possible! Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Pack your rain gear and get ready to experience the incredible Kilimanjaro like never before!

4. Are you looking for the best views Kilimanjaro has to offer? Ready to experience Kilimanjaro? Check out the Lemosho, Machame or Umbwe trails! These trails take you on an incredible journey through all climates, from rainforest to glacier. On this side of Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll see unique plants and diverse landscapes. The southern slopes are blessed with more precipitation, leading to a higher diversity of plant life. This is one of the best reasons why these routes are so scenic!

5. How much do you want to invest financially and timely? If you’re short on time and want to save money, you might be tempted to opt for a shorter route. However, remember that these routes are more challenging and have lower success rates, which means you’ll get to push yourself harder and enjoy an even more rewarding experience! We highly recommend a 7-day itinerary as a perfect for those with no or less previous acclimatization or serious trekking experience.

Conclusion: We hope this guide has helped you to learn more about the amazing routes up Mount Kilimanjaro and choose the one that’s perfect for your dream expedition! If you still have questions, our Kilimanjaro experts are here to help.

What wildanimals would one incounter while climbing Kilimanjaro?

The rainforests at the base of Kilimanjaro are home to so many wonderful animals! In fact, there are more animals in these rainforests than in the highlands. They have access to water and food, which we all need to survive! As you climb, you’ll find there’s less wildlife about. Tanzania’s national parks are home to some of the most amazing animals in the world! They roam free, so you might even spot some while you’re climbing Kilimanjaro. You’re in luck! There are no dangerous animals on this climb. On your journey, you might be lucky enough to spot some of these lovely creatures: Bush Baby, White-Necked Raven, Marsh Mongoose, Duiker, Serval Cat, Colobus Monkey, White-Tailed Mongoose, Tree Hyrax and Aardvar

• Note: Come and see the animals of Kilimanjaro for yourself

What is Diamox and its significance while trekking?

Diamox is the brand name for Acetazolamide, a fantastic drug that works by preventing the operation of ferments binding carbon dioxide with water during breathing. This means that you can breathe more easily when you’re at high altitude! You might find that you need to visit the toilet more often when you’re climbing Kilimanjaro, but this is perfectly normal. It’s not just because of Diamox, but also because you’re drinking more water because you’re exercising more.

When and how much Diamox should be taken? There are so many different opinions about using medications! This leads to two distinct groups of people: those who believe in taking a couple of pills to avoid making things worse (the pro-camp) and those who believe in letting their bodies cope by themselves and only taking pills as a last resort (the more cautious camp). However, if Diamox is right up your alley and you don’t have any allergies to it, we suggest you start your Kilimanjaro climb with 125 mg of Diamox in the morning and then take another 125 mg twice a day, in the afternoon and morning, while you’re on the trek. Most people are not allergic to sulfonamides. If you are unsure, consult your doctor.

There’s a debate among high-altitude medicine practitioners about dosage! Take 125 mg of Diamox twice a day: in the morning and in the afternoon. Clinical studies have shown that 500 mg per day is effective for preventing acute altitude sickness! the increased dose is reccomended If you’re over 80 kg! Doses above 500 mg per day are used for treatment!

Does Diamox has the side effects? As with any drug, Diamox has side effects. This is to be expected with any new medication. Diamox acts as a diuretic, which can cause you to go to the bathroom more often. The one thing most people worry about when taking Diamox is whether it will cause digestive issues. The good news is that these are very rare. In fact, our climbers have been taking Diamox for years without any problems at all! however some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and melena are clinically described as “infrequent”.

Who should NOT take Diamox? Diamox is contraindicated for people with kidney disease, liver disease, or chronic lung disease. It is also not recommended for people with sodium or potassium metabolism disorders, metabolic acidosis, or diabetes. See your doctor before taking Diamox.  Avoid taking it with aspirin. Not recommended for pregnant women.

Do I need any vaccination to climb Kilimanjaro?

We love answering tourists’ questions! One of the most popular is whether there are any mandatory vaccinations for visiting Tanzania. There are no specific vaccines required, but if you’re from an area with high risk yellow fever, you’ll need a certificate to prove vaccination. Check the WHO website here for countries at high risk of yellow fever.

Kilimanjaro Trek Packages

Are you prepared to conquer the stunning peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro? At Polepole African Experience, we provide personalized trekking options tailored to every adventurer’s preferences. Whether you’re a veteran climber or embarking on your first trek, our exclusive itineraries promise an unforgettable journey brimming with stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and cultural experiences that linger in your memory long after.

Join us on a journey where excitement meets safety and reconnects you with the wonders of nature. Guided by skilled local experts and adhering to our commitment to sustainable practices, each step taken on the mountain contributes to creating invaluable memories that will last a lifetime.