Can a beginner climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

While Kilimanjaro is suitable for climbers of various skill levels, beginners should undertake thorough physical training before attempting Mountain Climbing Kilimanjaro.

How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

How long does it take to Climb Kilimanjaro? Typically, the journey to ascend Kilimanjaro spans between 6 to 9 days. The specific duration depends on the chosen route and the itinerary planned to facilitate gradual acclimatization and maximize the probability of summit success.

Do you need oxygen to climb Kilimanjaro?

Most climbers do not require supplemental oxygen to climb Kilimanjaro. However, it's essential to acclimatize properly and be prepared for the Kilimanjaro Height-related challenges.

How do you Sleep on Kilimanjaro?

During Kilimanjaro Hiking and Climbing Adventures, you will sleep in tents. The Kilimanjaro Tents are typically spacious and equipped with sleeping pads to ensure a comfortable rest at campsites along the route.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing – Trek to Africa’s Highest Peak

Q: Is it hard to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro can be challenging due to the high altitude and varying terrain, but with proper preparation and guidance it is achievable for many climbers.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

The mountain rises the same, but the path you walk determines your Kilimanjaro Climbing story

African Scenic Safaris leads Kilimanjaro climbs through four distinct routes: Machame, Lemosho, Northern Circuit, and Rongai. From quiet forest trails to sweeping ridge views, every route reveals a different face of the mountain. We match climbers with routes that balance scenery, acclimatisation, and summit success—guided by experience, not shortcuts.

The Lemosho Route is one of the prettiest trails up Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting at the quiet Londorossi Gate, it crosses the wide Shira Plateau, offering a chance to see lots of wildlife. This peaceful path is great for enjoying beautiful views and easy hiking.

The Machame Route, known as the Whiskey Route, is Kilimanjaro's most popular trail. It offers beautiful views and varied scenery. Though challenging with steep paths and tent sleeping, it's a great choice for beginners who want a shorter climb with good acclimatisation.

The Rongai Route is the only trail that starts from the north side of Kilimanjaro, near Kenya. It’s quieter and gentler than other routes, perfect for those who prefer a peaceful climb. Ideal during the rainy season, it provides a smooth path through serene wilderness areas.

It is the longest of the Mt Kilimanjaro Routes and gives the best chance to adjust to high altitudes. It starts in the west and circles the mountain, providing stunning views and a high success rate for reaching the summit. The Northern Circuit Route gives you a quiet, scenic journey around Kilimanjaro.

Which route has the highest success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro?

The Northern Circuit Route has the highest summit success rate, thanks to its longer 9-day itinerary and excellent acclimatisation. The 8-day Lemosho Route and the 7-day Machame Route also offer high success rates because they allow more time for your body to adjust to the altitude.

Which Kilimanjaro route is the most scenic?

The Lemosho Route is considered the most scenic. Approaching from the west, it offers beautiful views across different landscapes — from lush rainforest to open moorlands and stunning mountain vistas. Many climbers say the scenery alone makes the Lemosho Route special.

Which route is best if I want fewer crowds?

The Rongai Route is the quietest option on Kilimanjaro. It starts on the northern side of the mountain and is used by fewer climbers. This makes it a good choice if you want a more peaceful experience, but keep in mind its summit success rate is slightly lower than Lemosho or Machame.

Which routes offer the best acclimatization?

The Lemosho, Machame, and Northern Circuit Routes provide excellent acclimatization because they follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle. This helps your body adjust to the altitude slowly, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and improving your chances of reaching the summit.

Which route has the easiest summit night?

The Lemosho and Machame Routes both have easier summit nights compared to other routes. They approach the crater rim at Stella Point, which is less than an hour from Uhuru Peak. In comparison, the Rongai and Marangu Routes reach the crater farther from the summit, making the summit night longer and harder.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Cost

What you invest in this climb reflects the safety, support, and experience you carry to the summit.

The Kilimanjaro Climbing Cost usually ranges between $2,000 and $6,000 per person. The price depends on group size, route, number of days, and level of comfort. African Scenic Safaris offers both Classic and Luxury Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages—planned for safety, proper acclimatization, and the experience you want on the mountain.

Machame Route Pricing

(Per Person in USD)

1 pax 2 pax 3 pax 4 pax 5 pax 6 pax 7 pax 8 pax 9 pax 10 pax

6 Days (For Adult)

$3,010$2,435$2,340$2,305 $2,270$2,230$2,215$2,195$2,175$2,160

6 Days (For Child)

$2,390$1,805$1,710$1,665 $1,630$1,585$1,575$1,550$1,530$1,520

7 Days (For Adult)

$3,305$2,710$2,600$2,535 $2,490$2,470$2,435$2,425$2,405$2,395

7 Days (For Child)

$2,530$1,930$1,815$1,750 $1,705$1,680$1,645$1,635$1,610$1,600

Lemosho Route Pricing

(Per Person in USD)

1 pax 2 pax 3 pax 4 pax 5 pax 6 pax 7 pax 8 pax 9 pax 10 pax

7 Days (For Adult)

$3,505$2,820$2,724$2,655 $2,625$2,580$2,535$2,525$2,515$2,505

7 Days (For Child)

$2,720$2,035$1,935$1,865 $1,830$1,785$1,745$1,735$1,720$1,705

8 Days (For Adult)

$3,840$3,095$3,000$2,920 $2,875$2,810$2,790$2,765$2,745$2,710

8 Days (For Child)

$2,920$2,185$2,085$2,010 $1,965$1,900$1,870$1,850$1,825$1,800

Rongai Route Pricing

(Per Person in USD)

1 pax 2 pax 3 pax 4 pax 5 pax 6 pax 7 pax 8 pax 9 pax 10 pax

7 Days (For Adult)

$3,205$2,525$2,425$2,360 $2,340$2,270$2,260$2,250$2,230$2195

7 Days (For Child)

$2,570$1,885$1,790$1,715 $1,695$1,630$1,610$1,600$1,580$1,545

8 Days (For Adult)

$3,515$2,790$2,680$2,590 $2,560$2,515$2,490$2,480$2,460$2,435

8 Days (For Child)

$2,730$2,005$1,895$1,805 $1,765$1,720$1,700$1,690$1,665$1,645

Northern Circuit Prices

(Per Person in USD)

1 pax 2 pax 3 pax 4 pax 5 pax 6 pax 7 pax 8 pax 9 pax 10 pax

9 Days (For Adult)

$4,330$3,425$3,340$3,260 $3,175$3,120$3,030$2,985$2,945$2,910

9 Days (For Child)

$3,300$2,395$2,310$2,230 $2,140$2,085$1,995$1,955$1,900$1,870

Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro

Climbing is possible year-round, but choosing the right season can make your trek smoother and more enjoyable.

The Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry months—January to early March and June to October. These periods offer stable weather and better summit conditions. However, climbs continue year-round. During rainy seasons, the drier Rongai Route is often preferred, making it possible to trek even in wet months.

Most Ideal

Low Season

January

January kicks off a popular climbing season with clear skies, dry trails, and great daytime conditions. While nights are chilly, it’s a comfortable month for trekking. Routes like Machame and Lemosho are moderately busy, and many climbers book early with full climbing packages. It’s an ideal time for first-time climbers seeking a classic, well-supported ascent.

Highlights

Climbing conditions are dry, clear, and great for summit views.
Temperatures are manageable with occasional light showers.
Second peak climbing season begins across all routes.
Good mix of weather and moderate crowd levels.
Excellent time for scenic photography and diverse landscapes.

February

February offers some of the most stable and scenic conditions for climbing. Warm days, clear skies, and dry trails make it ideal for a successful summit. It’s a great month for both guided group tours and private treks, with classic and luxury options available for those seeking the best of Kilimanjaro.

Highlights

Warm, dry days dominate with strong visibility and trail conditions.
Excellent month for stable weather across climbing zones.
Trails are moderately busy but not overly crowded.
High summit success rate due to favorable environment.
Ideal for beginners seeking comfort and beautiful trekking views.

March

Early March has decent weather, but rain increases by mid-month, especially on southern slopes. Trails can get muddy, and visibility may drop, making proper gear essential. While conditions are more challenging, March offers a quieter, less crowded experience for well-prepared climbers.

Highlights

Early March offers fair weather before big rains return.
Rain increases mid-month with cloud and muddy trails.
Climbers should be prepared with waterproof and layered gear.
Lower traffic offers peaceful but less predictable experience.
Consider early departure to avoid worsening weather later.

April

April marks the height of the rainy season, with wet and muddy trails on most routes. However, the Rongai Route from the drier north offers better conditions and fewer crowds. Ideal for experienced trekkers, April provides a quieter climb for those ready to face variable weather and seek a more secluded adventure.

Highlights

Big rainy season begins with high chances of daily rainfall.
Trails are slippery and wet, especially in forest zones.
Very few climbers on the mountain during this period.
Temperatures drop, especially at higher elevations and overnight.
Not ideal unless well-prepared for consistent rain and mud.

May

May remains in the rainy season, with muddy trails, low visibility, and unpredictable weather. Despite this, the snow-capped scenery and misty atmosphere offer stunning views and solitude. Ideal for experienced or photography-focused trekkers, May is best tackled with professional guidance and solid preparation.

Highlights

Rain continues into mid-May with cooler, cloudier conditions.
Climber numbers remain low, creating a quiet mountain experience.
Trekking is possible but requires proper rain-ready gear.
Good time for solitude if you accept unstable weather.
Routes may be scenic but often hard to navigate.

June

June marks the start of the dry season with clear skies and improved trail conditions. The Lemosho Route stands out for its scenery and acclimatisation benefits. With fewer crowds than peak months, June offers a quieter, more personal trekking experience—ideal for those seeking scenic trails and solid weather without the high-season rush.

Highlights

Rain fades and skies turn clear for excellent trekking conditions.
Trails are dry, but nighttime temperatures remain very cold.
Fewer climbers make it a peaceful, underrated climbing month.
Popular routes feel almost private and uncrowded.
Ideal for experienced trekkers who enjoy calm mountain settings.

July

July marks the start of Kilimanjaro’s high season with dry weather and cooler nights. The Machame Route shines this month, offering stunning views and strong acclimatisation. Though trails and camps are busier, the vibrant energy and excellent conditions make July a top choice for fit, motivated climbers.

Highlights

Trails get busier as peak season begins across Kilimanjaro.
Weather stays dry with very cold mornings and nights.
Visibility is great above the forest and moorland zones.
Perfect time for groups and well-prepared climbers.
Plan early as routes and camps fill quickly.

August

August is a peak season on the mountain, with dry, stable weather and high summit success rates. Popular routes like Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai are busy with climbers worldwide. While trails can be crowded, clear summit views and a lively atmosphere make it perfect for social or group treks.

Highlights

Peak climbing season with sunny, dry weather at higher altitudes.
Crowds grow, especially on Machame and Marangu routes.
Great visibility above the cloud line for summit views.
Forest zones may still see occasional cloud and rain.
Best month for climbers prioritizing weather over quiet trails.

September

September continues the peak season with clear skies and dry trails. The Northern Circuit Route stands out for its low traffic, varied landscapes, and excellent acclimatisation. Ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter, scenic climb with a high chance of summit success.

Highlights

Excellent conditions continue with slightly warmer days than August.
Most routes remain crowded due to favourable summit success rates.
Forest areas may still be cloudy in early mornings.
Northern routes offer quieter trails and strong acclimatisation.
Ideal for those seeking a balance of weather and views.

October

October is a quieter, underrated month for climbing. Early weeks offer dry weather and fewer crowds, while late October may bring some rain, especially on southern routes. With proper gear, most trails remain accessible, making it a great choice for trekkers seeking a balanced, less crowded experience.

Highlights

The first half offers good weather and fewer climbers on trails.
Late October brings unpredictable rain in forested sections.
A peaceful time for solitude-seeking and flexible trekkers.
Light showers usually occur in the afternoons and don’t last long.
Prepare for shifting weather with rain protection and layers.

November

November falls in the short rainy season, bringing misty, slippery trails and limited visibility. However, it offers lower climbing costs and quieter routes. Budget-conscious or experienced trekkers can still reach the summit—especially via the drier Rongai Route—with the right gear and preparation.

Highlights

The short rainy season begins with increased cloud and daily mist.
Trails become slippery and visibility reduces in forest areas.
Very few climbers make this a quiet month.
The snow-capped summit looks beautiful through the passing mist.
Challenging but rewarding for those who enjoy solitude.

December

December brings increased climbing activity, especially during the festive season. Early in the month can be rainy, but mid to late December offers clearer skies and snowy peaks—perfect for memorable summit photos. With high demand for tours, it’s a lively and rewarding time to end the year on a high note.

Highlights

The Christmas season brings high traffic on popular Kilimanjaro routes.
Weather at lower elevations may be rainy and humid.
Summit areas stay colder and often snowy or frosty.
Book early as tours fill quickly during holidays.
Festive atmosphere, but busy camps and crowded trails.

Find Your Safari

Rise And Climb

Tanzania Awaits You

Behind The Scenes

Travel Smart Here

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing