This itinerary intends to take travelers into one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, the Serengeti National Park. Central Serengeti is home to the big cats (lions, leopards & cheetahs) and so many other animals which can be gazed at throughout the year. It is the perfect choice
CLIMBING LEMOSHO The Lemosho Route begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Lemosho Gate, situated on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. On the first day, you will trek through the dense rainforest before reaching the Shira Plateau, which is the oldest of the three Kilimanjaro volcanoes. The Lemosho
CLIMBING LEMOSHO The Lemosho Route begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Lemosho Gate, situated on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. On the first day, you will trek through the dense rainforest before reaching the Shira Plateau, which is the oldest of the three Kilimanjaro volcanoes. The Lemosho
CLIMBING MACHAME The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is a popular trail for climbers looking to summit Kilimanjaro. It’s steeper than other routes, but offers stunning and diverse scenery, attracting almost half of all climbers. The route takes hikers through Kilimanjaro’s impressive Cloud Forest on the southern
CLIMBING MACHAME The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is a popular trail for climbers looking to summit Kilimanjaro. It’s steeper than other routes, but offers stunning and diverse scenery, attracting almost half of all climbers. The route takes hikers through Kilimanjaro’s impressive Cloud Forest on the southern
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING THE NORTHERN ROUTE If you’re looking for a route that is less steep and less crowded, this experience is perfect for you. You’ll spend a day journeying through Arusha National Park seeing natural wonders like Mount Meru and the Momela Lakes before starting your
Discover the less crowded and gentle ascent of the Northern Route. Begin your trek with a day exploring Arusha National Park’s natural wonders, including Mount Meru and Momela Lakes, while acclimatizing for a memorable climb.
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING RONGAI The Rongai Route is an exceptional way to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro. Nestled on the mountain’s northern side, near the Kenyan border, this route boasts a unique vantage point of the mountain. The trail offers picturesque views of
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING RONGAI The Rongai Route is an exceptional way to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro. Nestled on the mountain’s northern side, near the Kenyan border, this route boasts a unique vantage point of the mountain. The trail offers picturesque views of
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING SHIRA By taking the Shira route, you will approach Kilimanjaro from the western side, using the Lemosho route before connecting to the Machame route. Unlike other routes, the first day will be longer on the Shira route, you will bypass the rainforest zone and
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING SHIRA By taking the Shira route, you will approach Kilimanjaro from the western side, using the Lemosho route before connecting to the Machame route. Unlike other routes, the first day will be longer on the Shira route, you will bypass the rainforest zone and
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING UMBWE With Dismass Kilimanjaro Experience, we understand that some other company will guide through Umbwe route for 5 days but for us we don’t do this route for less than 6 days which make this a 9 days program which means 8 nights and
FOR AVAILABLE DATES CONTACT US CLIMBING UMBWE With Dismass Kilimanjaro Experience, we understand that some other company will guide through Umbwe route for 5 days but for us we don’t do this route for less than 6 days which make this a 9 days program which means 8 nights and
“Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not about speed but about comprehending the mountain. Altitude, not terrain, is the true test. A steady pace, proper acclimatisation, and experienced guides make all the difference at 5,895 meters.”
Each daybreak amidst the clouds is magical, and each step is carefully directed. Kilimanjaro becomes more than just a climb when you have professional guides, well-organised logistics, and luxurious accommodations.
We operate Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing via six routes—Lemosho, Machame, Northern Circuit, Rongai, Shira, and Umbwe. Each route features two packages: VIP for a well-supported ascent and VIP+ for added luxuries, ensuring comfort, safety, and a carefully planned journey to the summit. Let’s learn a little more about these Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes.
The Lemosho Route is one of the most picturesque and well-balanced trails on Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing. It begins on the western slopes, cutting through untouched rainforests before merging with the Machame route.
This path is favoured for its excellent acclimatization profile, allowing climbers to adjust to the altitude gradually, increasing the chances of a successful summit.
One of the highlights of Lemosho is the trek to Cathedral Peak (3,872m/12,703ft), an acclimatization hike offering breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau.
As you ascend, you’ll encounter the surreal Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, towering, otherworldly plants that thrive only on Kilimanjaro. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and alpine deserts to icy glaciers near the summit.
Highlights
✓ Excellent acclimatization profile
✓ High summit success rate
✓ Stunning views from Cathedral Peak and Shira Plateau
✓ Diverse landscapes with unique flora
✓ Gradual ascent, reducing altitude sickness risk
Route Characteristics
The Machame Route is the most popular path for Climbing Kilimanjaro, known for its stunning scenery and diverse landscapes. Starting on the southern side of the mountain, this route takes climbers through lush rainforests, rocky ridges, and alpine deserts before reaching the icy summit.
Due to its well-paced ascent and breathtaking views, nearly 50% of all climbers choose Machame for their Kilimanjaro adventure.
Often called the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is more challenging than the Marangu Route, which is known as the “Coca-Cola Route.” The trails here are steeper and longer, requiring endurance and determination.
Unlike Marangu, which has hut accommodations, Machame climbers sleep in tents, adding to the adventure of the climb. Despite its difficulty, the route provides excellent acclimatization opportunities, increasing the likelihood of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft).
Machame Route Highlights
✓ Excellent acclimatization profile on the 7-day itinerary
✓ High summit success rate compared to shorter routes
✓ Stunning landscapes, from rainforests to glaciers
✓ One of the most scenic and rewarding routes
✓ Most popular route, attracting many climbers
Route Characteristics
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic path for Kilimanjaro Climbing, offering a truly immersive trekking experience. This 9-day journey starts on the Lemosho Route, leading through the lush rainforests of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes before reaching the Shira Plateau.
From here, the trail veers north, following a rarely used path that circles the mountain before merging with the Rongai Route for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft).
This route is known for its incredible acclimatization profile, making it the best choice for those who want the highest chance of reaching the summit. It offers stunning panoramic views, diverse terrain, and a sense of solitude rarely found on other routes.
Unlike the more crowded southern trails, the Northern Circuit takes trekkers through quiet, untouched landscapes where the only sounds come from the wind and distant wildlife.
Northern Circuit Route Highlights
✓ Best acclimatization profile for a smooth ascent
✓ Highest success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes
✓ Stunning scenery and diverse landscapes
✓ Panoramic views from rarely traveled trails
✓ Peaceful and less crowded compared to other routes
Route Characteristics
The Rongai Route is the only trail that begins on Mount Kilimanjaro’s northern side, offering a unique and less crowded climbing experience. The journey starts in a serene coniferous forest, gradually transitioning through diverse climatic zones before merging with the Marangu Route for the descent.
Unlike the busier southern routes, Rongai provides a sense of solitude, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter, more personal trek.
One of the highlights of the Rongai Route is the uninterrupted views of Mawenzi and Kibo, two of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones. The drier northern slopes may have less vegetation than the western routes, but the breathtaking landscapes more than make up for it.
Picture waking up near Mawenzi Peak, its rugged cliffs glowing under the morning sun, while Bearded Vultures glide effortlessly towards the distant horizon of Kenya.
Rongai Route Highlights
✓ The only route that starts from Kilimanjaro’s north
✓ Clear, unobstructed mountain views throughout the climb
✓ Stunning panoramic sights of Mawenzi and Kibo
✓ Less crowded than the southern trails
✓ Potential wildlife encounters along the way
Route Characteristics
The Shira Route is one of the less-travelled paths for Kilimanjaro Climbing, known for its stunning scenery and panoramic views. It begins at Morum Barrier (3,414m/11,200ft) on Shira Ridge, making it one of the highest starting points of any route. While this allows climbers to access the Shira Plateau quickly, the high altitude presents acclimatization challenges.
The trail crosses the Shira Plateau, an expansive volcanic plain with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. On Day 3, trekkers reach the Lava Tower before following the Southern Circuit, which passes below Kibo Peak’s ice fields. The route includes a challenging ascent of the Barranco Wall, leading to Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft).
Although the Shira Route starts quietly, it merges with the Lemosho Route on Day 2, making it busier. Due to its high-altitude start, it bypasses the rainforest zone, limiting natural acclimatization opportunities found on lower-elevation routes like Lemosho.
Highlights
✓ Breathtaking landscapes from the very start
✓ Expansive panoramic views across the Shira Plateau
✓ Diverse terrain, from volcanic plains to ice fields
✓ Less crowded on the initial days
✓ Offers an exciting climb up Barranco Wall
Characteristics
The Umbwe Route is the steepest and most demanding trail for Kilimanjaro Climbing, known for its rapid altitude gain and direct ascent. It starts on Mount Kilimanjaro’s southern side, cutting through dense rainforests before transitioning into moorlands and alpine deserts.
For the first two days, the route remains secluded, offering a rare sense of solitude before merging with Lemosho and Machame Routes near Barranco Wall.
While Umbwe is physically demanding, it is not reserved for expert hikers. The steep ridges and volcanic outcrops make for a tough climb, with little time for acclimatization. For better adaptation and higher success rates, the 7-day itinerary is recommended.
Despite its difficulty, Umbwe rewards climbers with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the dramatic Kangra Valley. Those who choose Umbwe do so for the thrill, challenge, and adventure of summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) on one of Kilimanjaro’s most exhilarating routes.
Highlights
✓ The most challenging route to Kilimanjaro’s summit
✓ Stunning views of Kangra Valley and Kilimanjaro’s glaciers
✓ A quiet and less crowded ascent for the first two days
✓ Fast, direct climb with fewer trekking days
✓ Crosses multiple climatic zones, from rainforests to icy peaks
Characteristics
The best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro depends on weather conditions, trail difficulty, and personal preferences. Since the mountain is near the equator, it has two main seasons—wet and dry. The wet season (April, May, and November) makes the climb more challenging due to rain and slippery trails, while the dry season offers clear skies, better trail conditions, and a safer ascent. The dry months also provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, making the journey even more rewarding.
The peak climbing seasons are January–February and July–September, when temperatures are moderate and visibility is excellent. These months attract more climbers, making the trails busier. However, the stable weather helps with acclimatization, increasing the chances of reaching the summit. During these peak periods, climbers experience lively campsites, a shared sense of adventure, and expert-guided treks with well-prepared support teams.
For those seeking a quieter adventure, the off-season provides a unique and peaceful experience. The increased snowfall during these months creates stunning icy landscapes. This period is particularly cherished by photographers, as the mountain’s iconic peak is greatly enhanced by the increased snowfall. While the colder conditions demand extra preparation, the solitude, untouched beauty, and dramatic scenery make it a rewarding challenge for seasoned trekkers.
Led by our dedicated manager and expert guides, the Dismass Kilimanjaro Experience team ensures a safe, well-planned ascent. Their knowledge, passion, and support help you reach the summit successfully.
