More days on the mountain means better acclimatisation and a better chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Here is how the six main routes compare.
- Marangu – 6 days: the only route with hut beds. Gentle, but goes up and down the same way.
- Machame – 7 days: the most popular. Beautiful and varied, with the Barranco Wall scramble.
- Lemosho – 8 days: quiet rainforest start in the west, superb scenery and acclimatisation.
- Rongai – 7 days: from the drier north near Kenya; a good choice in the rainy months.
- Umbwe – 6 days: steep and direct, only for fit, experienced hikers.
- Northern Circuit – 9 days: the longest and least crowded, with the best summit odds.
Best time to climb
January to mid-March and June to October are driest. April–May is the long rainy season.
Our advice
First-timers: choose Machame (7 days) or Lemosho (8 days). Spend a day before the climb on an easy culture hike such as Materuni – it helps your body adjust and gives you a taste of Chagga life. Choose an operator that pays porters fairly and limits loads to 20 kg.