Lemosho
Our first choice for most climbers. Quiet western approach through rainforest, crossing the Shira Plateau, with excellent acclimatisation and summit success.
Climb Kilimanjaro
The mountain that
The mountain that
anchors the north
At 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the world's highest free-standing peak. We plan unhurried climbs on the quieter routes, with time built in to acclimatise properly.
Begin a conversationClimbing with Wildblick
Most people who reach the summit do it because they went slowly.
Kilimanjaro needs no technical climbing, but it is a serious high-altitude trek. The biggest factor in reaching Uhuru Peak is not fitness — it is time. That is why we recommend longer routes, extra acclimatisation days and a pace set by your guide, not by the itinerary.
Our climbs are run by experienced, licensed mountain guides with a full support crew, proper camping equipment, a mountain chef and daily health checks. Afterwards, most of our climbers rest their legs on safari or on the Zanzibar coast.
The routes
Choosing a way up
Six main routes lead to the summit. We will recommend one based on your experience, the season and how much time you have.
Machame
The most scenic of the popular routes, climbing high and sleeping low. Busier, but beautiful — the seven-day version gives better acclimatisation.
Northern Circuit
The longest and quietest route, circling the mountain's northern slopes. The most time to acclimatise, and the fewest other climbers.
Rongai
Approaches from the north near the Kenyan border. Drier, gentler and quieter — a good choice in the rainier months.
Marangu
The only route with mountain huts instead of tents. Direct and comfortable, but the short profile gives less time to acclimatise.
Umbwe
Steep, direct and demanding. Best left to experienced trekkers who are already acclimatised.
5,895 m
Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa
5 zones
from rainforest to arctic summit
7–8
days recommended for the best chance of success
Sample itinerary
Lemosho route, eight days on the mountain
Our recommended route for most climbers. Nine days including arrival.
Day01
Arrival in Moshi
Met at Kilimanjaro airport. Kit check and briefing with your lead guide.
Moshi · lodgeDay02
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Drive to the western gate and walk through dense rainforest, home to colobus monkeys.
Forest camp · 2,650 mDay03–04
Shira Plateau
Out of the forest and onto the wide Shira Plateau, with the first full views of Kibo.
Shira camps · 3,500–3,850 mDay05
Lava Tower to Barranco
Climb high to Lava Tower, then descend to sleep at Barranco — the key acclimatisation day.
Barranco camp · 3,960 mDay06–07
Barranco Wall to Barafu
Scramble the Barranco Wall and traverse to Karanga and Barafu high camp.
Barafu camp · 4,670 mDay08
Summit night
Leave around midnight to reach Stella Point and Uhuru Peak at sunrise, then descend to Mweka.
Mweka camp · 3,100 mDay09
Descent
Walk down through the forest to Mweka Gate, collect your certificate, and return to Moshi.
Moshi · lodgeWhen to climb
Seasons on the mountain
Jan–Mar
Warm and clear
Warmer, generally dry and quieter than the mid-year season. Good summit conditions.
Jun–Oct
Cool and dry
The main climbing season: dry, clear and colder at night. Book well ahead.
Apr–May, Nov
The rains
Wetter, cloudier and very quiet. Possible on the northern routes, but we generally advise against it.
Included
What the price covers
- Licensed mountain guides, assistant guides, porters and cook
- All park, camping and rescue fees
- Quality tents, sleeping mats and a mess tent
- All meals on the mountain and treated drinking water
- Daily health checks with pulse oximeter; emergency oxygen
- Hotel nights in Moshi before and after, and airport transfers
Not included
What it does not
- International flights and visa
- Travel insurance covering altitude up to 6,000 m (required)
- Personal gear and sleeping bag (hire available)
- Gratuities for the mountain crew
Prices are indicative per person, based on a seven-day Machame climb with two climbers. Longer routes and private departures cost more.
Questions
Before you ask
Do I need climbing experience?
No technical experience is needed, but you should be in good health and comfortable walking six to eight hours a day. Regular hill walking in the months before is the best preparation.
What is the success rate?
It depends mainly on route length. Longer routes such as Lemosho and the Northern Circuit give your body more time to acclimatise and have noticeably higher summit rates than the five- and six-day options.
How cold does it get?
Summit night can drop well below freezing, often -10°C to -20°C with wind chill. We send a full kit list and check your gear on arrival.
Can I combine Kilimanjaro with a safari?
Yes, and we recommend it. Climb first, then rest on safari or on the beach. See our safari styles or Zanzibar.
Begin
Ready to stand on the roof of Africa?
Tell us your dates and experience. We will recommend a route and send a full quote within one working day.
Start planning