We offer three challenging and rewarding routes on Kilimanjaro as part of our varied Tanzanian itineraries. You may choose:



Marangu
The original route climbing the south-east side of the mountain on well maintained paths. The preferred choice for many trekkers, Marangu is the only hut-accommodated ascent.

Explore Treks:
Kilimanjaro - Marangu Trek
Marangu Trek with Zanzibar Extension

Rongai
The only route starting on the northern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border. Rongai is also one of the least trodden and considered to be the easiest of the camping treks with short daily stages and least severe gradient.

Explore Treks:
Kilimanjaro - Rongai, Safari and Zanzibar

Machame
Machame climbs from the west, circling the southern flank of the mountain. The terrain is more demanding with some steep sections such as the Barranco Valley but rewarded by stunning views of Kibo crater and southern icefields.

Explore Treks:
Kilimanjaro - Machame Trek
Kilimanjaro - Machame Trek with Zanzibar Extension
Tanzanian Volcano Trek with Zanzibar Extension

A typical day begins early, usually at sunrise. This is to allow a measured pace during the day's trek and to ensure we reach the next camp with plenty of daylight to spare and time to rest. Our porters prepare a cooked breakfast and plenty of hot drinks before we start out on the trail carrying only what we need for the day (water, camera, waterproofs, extra clothing and packed lunch). We walk at an easy pace to aid acclimatisation and generally stay together as a group with guides at the front and rear. We stop around midday for a lunch break, then press on to our night stop, aim to arrive mid afternoon. As our porters prepare our evening meal, we take time to relax and unwind - often in the most spectacular surroundings.

Dinner on Kili is good, filling mountain fare such as stews and pasta dishes. Finally a sound nights sleep enables us to acclimatise to the altitude and prepares us for the day ahead.

All Explore Kilimanjaro treks are made over six days with a day added to the standard itineraries set by the National Park on both the Marangu and Rongai routes. This is to aid acclimatisation through a more gradual ascent and allow plenty of rest en route, giving you the best chance of reaching the roof of Africa.

Whether carrying equipment and luggage or setting up camp or preparing meals, the enthusiasm and efficiency of our support team on Kilimanjaro is fundamental to the success and enjoyment of the trek. Our porters are mostly from the local Chagga tribe, well known for their independent spirit and strength of purpose. On a trek a strong and respectful camaraderie often builds between the group and the support team and many people tell us afterwards that these perhaps unexpected friendships make hiking on Kili all the more rewarding. As a supporter of the International Porters Protection Group Explore helps safeguard the interests and welfare of porters and is instrumental in setting standards of best practice on the mountain.

Ashley Toft, our General Manager talks about his Kili Adventure.

Cian O'Mahony, travelled on the Machame Route with Explore in October 2004, he has online his journal, preparation and equipment lists that he took with him, not to mention some fantastic photos!