There is no single "best" route up Kilimanjaro. There is only the route that best matches your fitness, your time and how you like to travel. Here is our honest guide.
Lemosho — the one we recommend most
Seven or eight days, approaching from the west through beautiful, quiet forest before joining the southern circuit. The extra days give your body time to acclimatise, and that is why Lemosho has some of the highest summit success rates on the mountain. If you can spare the time, take it.
Machame — the "Whiskey Route"
Six or seven days, steeper and more demanding than Marangu, but with superb scenery and a good acclimatisation profile thanks to its climb-high, sleep-low structure. Popular for good reason.
Marangu — the "Coca-Cola Route"
The only route with hut accommodation rather than tents, which some travellers love. It is the shortest option at five or six days — but that speed is exactly why its summit success rate is lower. If you choose Marangu, choose the six-day version.
Rongai — the quiet north
Approaches from the drier northern side, so it is a good choice in the rainy months and considerably less crowded. Gentler gradients, wilder feel.
Northern Circuit — the long way round
Nine days, the longest route on the mountain, circling the northern slopes. The most acclimatisation, the fewest people, the highest success rate. If you have the time, it is magnificent.
The rule of thumb
More days on the mountain means a better chance of standing on the summit. Almost everyone who turns back does so because of altitude, not fitness. When in doubt, add a day.