Machame Route Trekking: 7 Days (6-Day Alternative Available)

The dry seasons (June–October & January–March) offer the best conditions.

The best Kilimanjaro climbing route depends on your priorities—whether it’s scenery, acclimatization, difficulty, or crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown of the top routes:

1. Lemosho Route – Best for Scenery & Acclimatization

• Duration: 7-8 days
• Pros: Stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, excellent acclimatization
• Cons: Longer duration increases cost

2. Machame Route (“Whiskey Route”) – Most Popular & Scenic

• Duration: 6-7 days
• Pros: Beautiful views, good acclimatization profile
• Cons: Can be crowded during peak seasons

3. Rongai Route – Best for Fewer Crowds

• Duration: 6-7 days
• Pros: Approaches from the north, less rainfall, fewer climbers
• Cons: Less varied scenery

4. Northern Circuit Route – Best for Acclimatization & Success Rate

• Duration: 9 days
• Pros: Longest route, best acclimatization, 360-degree views
• Cons: Higher cost due to extended duration

5. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola Route”) – Easiest & Only Hut Accommodation

• Duration: 5-6 days
• Pros: Shortest route, hut accommodations instead of tents
• Cons: Lower success rate due to rapid ascent

For the highest summit success rate, Lemosho and Northern Circuit are excellent choices. If you prefer a shorter trek, Machame or Rongai are great options.

Yes, it is possible to trek Kilimanjaro during the rainy season, but it comes with challenges. Kilimanjaro has two rainy seasons:

• Long rains: March to early June (heavier rainfall, muddy trails).
• Short rains: November to early December (lighter rainfall, cooler temperatures).

Pros of Rainy Season Trekking

• Fewer crowds – The mountain is much quieter.
• Lush scenery – The rainforest zone is especially beautiful.
• Snow at the summit – Creates a stunning landscape.

Cons of Rainy Season Trekking

• Wet and muddy trails – Makes hiking more difficult.
• Reduced visibility – Clouds and fog may block views.
• Cold and damp conditions – Gear may stay wet for days.

Best Routes for Rainy Season

• Rongai Route – Approaches from the north, which gets less rain.
• Marangu Route – Has hut accommodations, keeping trekkers dry.

If you’re considering a rainy season trek, packing waterproof gear and choosing the right route can make a big difference

The cost of a tourist visa is US$50 per person and $100 for American citizens, to be paid in cash. We recommend buying the visa upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania. It is very easy to buy the visa upon arrival, and it is not necessary to arrange everything beforehand. Buying a visa upon arrival does not take much time at all. Forms can be obtained at the airplane/airport/border upon arrival. All you need to do is fill out the form and pay the fee, and you will get a visa stamped in your passport. Please make sure you have all the necessary jabs. A Yellow Fever jab, for example, is one legal requirement for being allowed to enter the country. It is not necessary to bring any pictures to get your visa, but please be aware that your passport has to be valid for another 6 months after departing from Tanzania. Citizens of some countries may have to get the visa prior to departure. Make sure you check with your country’s authorities in advance.

• When considering a plan, take inventory of the components of your trip. Pre-paid vacation home rentals, car rentals, and event tickets are more unconventional items to insure, yet they can be costly if forfeited due to an unexpected circumstance. If these costs are added into the total pre-paid cost of the trip, a comprehensive travel insurance plan could protect you if your trip should be cancelled or interrupted.
• For more information go to ( worldnomads.co.uk )

• Like many countries in Africa, Tanzania is relatively not much expensive by world standards in terms of domestic currency to foreign currency, and a lot of people rely on tipping from tourism to get by. And its definitely a big deal because it brings money to many of the service workers who work in the tourism industry and other sectors too depending on the service provided.

So before you go, you should know how much to tip in Tanzania.

• Situated just south of the equator, Tanzania is a vast country with a variable climate that depends heavily on the elevation and geography of your chosen destination. Generally speaking, the weather is tropical; particularly on the coast, where heat and humidity prevail. However, the northwestern highlands are consistently cool, while the central plateau remains dry all year round

Packing for Kilimanjaro is all about preparing for five different climate zones—from humid rainforest to freezing summit conditions. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Bags

• Duffel Bag (65-100L) – Carried by porters, holds your main gear.
• Daypack (30-40L) – You’ll carry this yourself, holding water, snacks, and layers.
• Backpack Rain Cover – Protects your gear from unexpected rain.
• Dry Bags – Keeps electronics and clothes dry.

Sleeping Gear

• 4-Season Sleeping Bag – Rated for -10°C to -20°C temperatures.
• Sleeping Mat – Adds insulation and comfort.
• Inflatable Pillow – Optional but useful.

Hydration & Accessories

• Hydration Pack (Water Bladder) – Holds 2-3 liters of water.
• Trekking Poles – Reduces strain on knees, especially on descents.
• Headlamp – Essential for summit night.

Clothing Layers

• Base Layers – Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms.
• Insulated Jacket – Essential for cold summit nights.
• Waterproof Jacket & Pants – Protects against rain and wind.
• Gloves & Hat – Keeps extremities warm.
• Hiking Boots – Sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in.

Yes, equipment rentals are available in Moshi and Arusha

No, tour operators provide high-quality tents and camping gear

Before trekking Kilimanjaro, it’s important to ensure you’re up to date on vaccinations to protect yourself from potential health risks. Here are the key vaccinations recommended for travelers to Tanzania:

• Yellow Fever – Required if you’re arriving from or transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk.
• Hepatitis A & B – Protects against liver infections transmitted through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids.
• Typhoid – Recommended due to the risk of contaminated food and water.
• Tetanus & Diphtheria – Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
• Malaria – Anti-malarial medication is recommended if you’re spending time in low-altitude regions like Moshi and Arusha

Basic first aid kits are available at most Tanzania lodges and camps, but you should always have one with you whenever an emergency arise. Your first aid kit should include mosquito repellent and malarial prophylactics, as well as your SPF preferred category sunscreen, antihistamine and an over-the-counter pain relieving medication, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Panadol or Tylenol and a few protective bags can be included in your first aid kit for this purpose. Bring larger lightweight cover bags for protecting your bagged camera and lenses too from dust and water where required e.g. canoeing or boating safari. Other items for your first aid kit are antiseptic gel, anti-diarrhea medication, antacid tablets for indigestion, Band-Aids with antiseptic cream, prescription medications and spare eyeglasses even if you wear contact lenses.

Yes, Flying Doctors insurance is highly recommended for Kilimanjaro trekking. While not mandatory, it provides emergency medical evacuation in case of serious altitude sickness, injury, or other health emergencies. Helicopter evacuations from Kilimanjaro can be extremely expensive, and having insurance ensures you get swift medical assistance without financial strain.

You can purchase coverage through AMREF Flying Doctors  , KiliMed Air

Rejoice Africa Tours on Kilimanjaro provides nutritious, high-energy meals to keep climbers fueled for the trek. Here’s what you can expect:

Typical Meals

• Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, sausages, toast with jam or peanut butter, fresh fruit, and hot drinks like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
• Lunch: Packed or cooked meals including sandwiches, boiled eggs, chicken, fresh fruit, and soup.
• Dinner: A hearty meal with soup, chicken or meat, vegetable sauce, cabbage, rice, pasta, or potatoes, with fresh fruit for dessert.
• Snacks: Biscuits, peanuts, popcorn, and energy bars to keep climbers energized between meals.

Special Dietary Needs

We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher, and allergy-specific diets—just inform us in advance. Note that a separate fee may apply

Trekking Kilimanjaro is an incredible adventure, but safety is key to a successful climb. Here are some essential precautions to follow:

1. Acclimatization & Altitude Sickness

• Choose longer routes (like Lemosho or Machame) for gradual acclimatization.
• Follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle to help your body adjust.
• Drink 3-4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated.
• Recognize symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, dizziness, nausea) and inform your guide immediately.

2. Experienced Guides & Porters

• We use certified Kilimanjaro guides who monitor your health and oxygen levels.
• Porters carry equipment and supplies, ensuring trekkers can focus on their climb safely.

3. Proper Gear & Clothing

• Wear layered clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.
• Use sturdy hiking boots with ankle support to prevent injuries.
• Bring a high-quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures.

4. Hydration & Nutrition

• Drink plenty of water and eat high-calorie meals for endurance.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration and altitude sickness.

5. Emergency Response & Evacuation

• Guides carry pulse oximeters to monitor oxygen levels.
• Emergency bottled oxygen is available for altitude sickness.
• Helicopter evacuation is available in severe cases.