The Complete Kilimanjaro Climbing Guide

Starts in the western rainforest, crosses the wide Shira Plateau and joins the Machame route near Lava Tower. The gradual gain in altitude and the extra days give your body time to adapt, which is why it is widely regarded as one of the best routes for acclimatisation and for views.

Best for: First-time climbers who want the best chance of reaching the summit, and anyone who values scenery and a gentler start.

Worth knowing: Needs seven to eight days and a longer drive to the trailhead, so it costs more than the shorter routes.

Often called the Whiskey route. It climbs through rainforest, crosses moorland, passes under the Lava Tower and goes beneath the Barranco Wall before the push to the summit. The "climb high, sleep low" profile helps acclimatisation, and the scenery changes every day.

Best for: Fit walkers who want a classic route with strong scenery and a good profile, with six or seven days available.

Worth knowing: The six-day version is quick for the altitude. The seven-day version gives a noticeably better margin.

The only route to approach from the north. It is drier and gentler on the way up, with a wilder, quieter feel, and it descends by the Marangu route. It is a good option in the rainy months because the north side gets less rain.

Best for: People who prefer a quieter, steady climb, and those travelling in or near the rainy seasons.

Worth knowing: Less varied scenery than Lemosho or Machame, and the ascent is steadier, with less "climb high, sleep low" built in.

The longest route. It follows the Lemosho start, then curves around the quiet north side of Kibo before the summit push. The extra days give excellent acclimatisation, and you see parts of the mountain few climbers reach.

Best for: Climbers with time who want the best chance of summiting and the most solitude.

Worth knowing: Longer and more expensive. The extra days are in camp, so you need to be comfortable with a longer expedition.

Known as the Coca-Cola route. It is the only route with sleeping huts instead of tents, which appeals to people who would rather not camp. It goes up and down by the same path.

Best for: Travellers who want a bed in a hut and are comfortable with a shorter, steeper profile.

Worth knowing: Fewer days means less time to acclimatise, and many guides advise adding an extra day. Hut places and crowds can be a factor in busy months.

The steepest and most direct route, gaining height quickly through forest. It is a serious climb with a strong sense of wilderness.

Best for: Experienced, very fit trekkers who already know how they respond to altitude.

Worth knowing: The quick gain in height makes it a poor choice for a first climb. Most guides recommend a longer route for most people.