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Mount Kilimanjaro

Rising above the clouds, Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain on Earth. One look at its snow-capped peak—and you're already on the journey of a lifetime.

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A Journey to Africa’s Highest Peak

Conquer Kilimanjaro in style. At 5,895 meters, this legendary peak offers an extraordinary high-altitude trek—no technical skills required. Just world-class guides, breathtaking scenery, and an unforgettable journey to the top of Africa.

Guided by Passion, Powered by Positivity

Our upbeat guides bring energy, knowledge, and song to your Kilimanjaro experience. It’s more than a climb—it’s a celebration.

The Summit is Just the Start

Reaching Uhuru Peak is breathtaking. But it’s what the mountain teaches you along the way—about yourself, about resilience, about joy in the face of challenge—that makes this climb unforgettable.

Mount Kilimanjaro key facts

Despite its height, Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb. You don’t need ropes, crampons, or climbing skills—just endurance, determination, and proper acclimatization.

Height:

5,895 meters (19,341 feet)

Attempts each year

35,000 to 50,000

Success rate

between 65% to 70%

Best time to climb

December - January to early March, June to October

Cultivation Zone 800 to 1,800 mt.

Fertile farmland with coffee, bananas, and local villages.

Forest Zone 1,800 to 2,800 mt.

Dense rainforest rich in wildlife, with frequent mist and lush vegetation.

Heather-Moorland Zone 2,800 to 4,000 mt.

A semi-alpine area with heath plants and colorful wildflowers.

Alpine Desert Zone 4,000 to 5,000 mt.

High-altitude terrain with volcanic rocks and sparse vegetation.

Arctic Summit climate zones 5,000 + mt.

Icy, oxygen-thin zone with glaciers, extreme cold, and harsh winds.

Malachite sunbirds

A small nectarivorous bird found on Kilimanjaro highlands.

Bush babies (galagos)

these are nocturnal and difficult to spot in day time

Distinctive colobus monkeys

One of the true treasures of Kilimanjaro

White Necked Raven

Aptly named for the prominent white band on the back of its neck.

The four-striped grass mouse

One of the smaller animals on Kilimanjaro

The Long Dry Season

The long dry season is a great time of year to climb the mountain. Temperatures are a little colder than the short dry season (January and February) but overall conditions are excellent with very little chance of precipitation.

The Short Wet Season

The short rains come between October and December. The timing of this season is a bit less predictable than during the long rains. We don’t recommend climbing once the rains have set in. Average temperature of 76°F (24.4°C) with rain slowly increasing in frequency with partly cloudy skies.

The Short Dry

This is the best time to trek Kilimanjaro. Especially during late January and into February, temperatures are generally a bit warmer than between June and October. Though this can vary from year to year.

The Long Wet Season

Towards the end of March, when the trade winds blowing across the Indian ocean come in contact with the mountain, the long rains begin. We don’t recommend climbing during this season as the rain can be heavy and the trails are wet and slipery.

Summit Weather

Most trekkers start their summit attempts around midnight. It’s bitterly cold, often with snow or ice on the trail. The aim is to get to Uhuru Peak at sunrise, as mostly the skies are clear and you’ll be rewarded to vast panoramic views of Mawenzi Meru peak . At the summit, Uhuru Point, the night time temperatures can range between 20 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). Due to Mount Kilimanjaro’s great height, the mountain creates its own weather.

The Long Dry Season

June to September

The Short Wet Season

October, November and December

The Short Dry

January to February

The Long Wet Season

March to May

Summit Weather

on the summit

Kilimanjaro trekking Routes

There are seven official routes to hike Mount Kilimanjaro, each offering unique and breathtaking natural scenery. At The Bugs Adventures, we specialize in five of these routes. Whichever you choose, be prepared—climbing Kilimanjaro is a true challenge that requires mental strength, physical readiness, and the right trekking gear.

Lemosho Route

Start your Kilimanjaro trek on the scenic Lemosho Route, known for its remote beauty and wildlife sightings. Enjoy a gradual ascent through unspoiled forests, guided by a park ranger on day one—perfect for acclimatization and adventure.

Machame route

Known as the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is a popular, tent-only trail offering stunning scenery and diverse landscapes—from rainforest to alpine desert—ending at the summit of Uhuru Peak. Ideal for those seeking a more adventurous climb.

Marangu route

Nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations. It offers a gradual ascent through lush rainforest and alpine meadows, making it a popular choice for first-time trekkers.

Rongai route

Approaching Kilimanjaro from the north, the Rongai Route offers a peaceful trek with fewer crowds. It’s known for its dry climate, open views, and a gradual climb—perfect for those seeking solitude and a unique perspective of the mountain.

Umbwe route

The Umbwe Route is the most direct and demanding trail up Kilimanjaro. With steep climbs through dense forest and narrow ridges, it’s best suited for experienced trekkers looking for a fast, adventurous ascent with minimal crowds.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

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Trekking to New Heights

Kilimanjaro climbing Lemosho Route

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Africa’s highest mountain. Our carefully crafted 10-day itinerary takes you from the vibrant town of Moshi to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters) via…

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Trekking to New Heights

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The Machame route is also known as a “Whiskey Route” and is better suited to the slightly more adventurous hiker. From late afternoon sunsets at Shira Peak, to the misty…

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