TREKKING GEAR FOR MT KILIMANJARO

Each Kilimanjaro route has its own pros and cons. Some are great for scenery, but not so great for acclimatisation. Others offer high summit success rates but are also quite busy at certain times of the year. Choosing the right path also means making sure your trekking gear is up to the challenge, since each route places different demands on climbers.

Let’s jump in and look at the various Kilimanjaro routes to the summit.

1. The Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route is arguably one of the most beautiful Kilimanjaro routes, offering a well-paced itinerary for those who want a little more time to reach the summit.
It is a perfect route for acclimatisation, which is reflected in our higher summit success rate, as we start a little lower at Lemosho Gate and have our first night at Big Tree Camp. With the extra days, you’ll really appreciate reliable trekking gear that can handle varied terrain and longer hikes.

2. The Rongai Route

A faster climb, the Rongai Route is for those who are short on time or would like to test their physical and mental limits. As it ascends much faster than other routes, Rongai requires a high level of fitness and an ability to acclimatise quickly.
This route will see you climb Kilimanjaro from the northeast across stark rocky landscapes, enjoying spectacular views across the Kenya plains. You then go down the southern slopes to finish at Marangu.
If you’re looking for a challenging route, this is the way to go—just make sure your trekking gear is lightweight yet durable for the rapid ascent.

3. The Machame Route

The Machame Route to climb Kilimanjaro is one of the most famous options and can therefore get quite busy. It is a pretty tough option to summit that really challenges both you and your trekking gear on the way to Uhuru Peak, with long day walks that still include good acclimatisation opportunities.

4. The Northern Circuit

The remote Northern Circuit is the newest route on Kilimanjaro and is popular with trekking enthusiasts who want to avoid the crowds and experience the remote wilderness. The Northern Circuit almost completely circumnavigates Kili, offering ample time for acclimatisation and combining the best vistas of Rongai and Shira.
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience without the crowds, the Northern Circuit is your best bet. With so many days on the mountain, dependable trekking gear becomes essential to keep you comfortable throughout.

5. The Marangu Route

The Marangu route was nicknamed the ‘Coca-Cola’ route as Coke used to be bought along the way in tea huts. The route is often selected by unprepared, inexperienced climbers as a result of the reputation for being the “easiest” Kilimanjaro route, which contributes to the lower success rate.
It is also the shortest Kilimanjaro route with a relatively poor acclimatisation profile, a major factor in the low success rates. Even on this shorter climb, having the right trekking gear makes a big difference, since quick ascents can be tough without proper preparation.