Given these summit success rates on Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the questions we are regularly asked concerns the breakdown of these summit rates by route. Although it is not publicized, the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority does monitor and maintain detailed leads of all park activities. Moreover, the first to summit data split for all routes is reported each year in the KINAPA annual report and the document for 2009/2010 can be found on the KINAPA website. Unfortunately, this document is not automatically available to the general public, and so I thought that I should compile and summarize the information therein as a valuable aid to those planning for a successful ascent of Kilimanjaro. For all granted climbs, the information is split into two: the route used to summit Kilimanjaro and the nationality split of all climbers. More interesting, for most climbers, would be the summit rates per route, so here they are.
The overall success rate in climbing Kilimanjaro on all routes has been reported to vary between 41-85%, with an average summit success rate (from all routes) of 65%. The overall completion rate is a sum of the average success rate for the entire route and those for each specific route, providing the breakdown of summit chances through varying routes.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be accomplished by most people who maintain a decent level of fitness. This achievable feat is mainly due to two factors: technical skills are not necessary and the climbs are fully supported. Unlike other high-altitude peaks that require specialized equipment and techniques, Kilimanjaro is mainly a hike, allowing participants to walk up and down the summit without the need for advanced mountaineering skills. Additionally, expeditions on Kilimanjaro are made easier by the presence of support crews, including guides, assistant guides, cooks, and porters. These professionals take care of various tasks such as leading the group, ensuring safety, carrying gear, and managing camp life. As a result, climbers can fully focus on the journey with just a lightweight daypack, without having to worry about logistical or physical challenges. However, despite these advantages, the overall success rate is still relatively low due to the mountain’s high altitude demands, emphasizing the importance of climbers’ ability to acclimatize.
Kilimanjaro Summit Success Rates (Reported in 2006)
In 2006, as reported by Kilimanjaro National Park, the success rates for climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro were as follows: All Climbers, All Routes: 45%, All Climbers, 5-Day Routes: 27%, All Climbers, 6-Day Routes: 44%, All Climbers, 7-Day Routes: 64%, and All Climbers, 8-Day Routes: 85%. Unfortunately, data for the success rate on 9-Day Routes was unavailable. When analyzing this information, it becomes evident that allowing enough time for acclimatization is crucial. The longer the chosen route, the greater the chances of reaching the summit successfully.
How Are Success Rates Measured?
The park has unclear criteria for determining its “success”. There are three points on the mountain that are considered the summit: Gilman’s Point, Stella Point, and Uhuru Point. When climbers reach any of these points, the park issues a summit certificate and presents it to the climber. Therefore, reaching any of these three summit destinations is likely considered a successful summit when reporting the figures. Additionally, each climbing company also has its own definition of success, which may not be consistent. It is suspected that some companies may even be dishonest about their success numbers. For clarity, when we mention our success rates at Ultimate Kilimanjaro, we are specifically referring to climbers who have reached the true summit, Uhuru Peak.
Today’s Kilimanjaro Summit Success Rates
Unfortunately, Kilimanjaro National Park has not provided any new statistics since 2006, leaving us with data that is almost 20 years old. These percentages are likely outdated. However, we believe that the success rates on Kilimanjaro today are significantly higher. We estimate that the current success rate for climbers on all routes and with different operators is around 70-75%. This marked improvement can be attributed to climbers making more informed choices nowadays. When we launched Ultimate Kilimanjaro in 2007, the majority of operators mostly guided climbers on just two routes: Marangu and Machame. The Marangu route takes 5 or 6 days to climb, while the Machame route takes 6 or 7 days. These routes have reported success rates ranging from 27% to 64%. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the overall success rate falls somewhere in the middle, at 45%. Since our establishment, we have always prioritized the success of our clients, which is why we have consistently advised against choosing these underperforming routes. Historically, we have primarily guided climbers on the 8-day Lemosho route. The park did not collect data for 9-day routes prior to 2006, which is why there is no available information. However, when the 9-day Northern Circuit route was introduced in 2014, we were one of the first companies to offer guidance on this highly successful route. The main reason why our success rates have always been among the best in the industry (in addition to our exceptional support and service) is because we specialized in longer routes. By opting for longer climbs, we provided climbers with the best chance of reaching the summit. Nowadays, more and more climbers, regardless of the company they choose, are opting for these longer routes. As a result, the overall success rates have accordingly increased.
Kilimanjaro Success Rates By Route
Kilimanjaro presents various routes that provide different experiences, challenges, and probabilities of achieving success. Let’s take a detailed look at these variations:
Lemosho Route: 90%
Northern Circuit: 95%
Marangu Route: 65%
Rongai Route: 85%
Machame Route: 90%
Umbwe Route: 75%
These success rates provide an overview of the likelihood of climbers reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via each route. Climbers need to consider these ratings along with other factors such as route difficulty, duration, and personal fitness level when choosing the most suitable route for their trek.
How to Improve Your Success Rate on Kilimanjaro
Acclimatization: The Key to Adjusting to Altitude
It is evident that longer routes are more beneficial for acclimatization. Spending an extended period of time at high altitudes allows the body to adapt to the lower oxygen levels, increasing the chances of success. It is not just the duration of time spent, but also the strategy of “climb high, sleep low” that aids in better adjustment and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Recognizing and managing symptoms of altitude sickness is crucial. Symptoms can vary from mild headaches and fatigue to more severe conditions such as acute mountain sickness (AMS), high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Taking preventative measures, such as walking at a slower pace and staying hydrated, is essential. Additionally, it is important to listen to your body and openly communicate with your guide, as they can help manage symptoms before they worsen.
Physical & Mental Fitness: Preparing for the Climb
While technical climbing skills are not necessary for climbing Kilimanjaro, it is crucial to have a good level of physical fitness. The trek involves long days of walking, often on steep and uneven terrain. Therefore, it is highly recommended to engage in a comprehensive training program prior to your adventure. This program should include cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking while carrying a weighted pack. By being physically prepared, you not only increase your chances of reaching the summit but also enhance your overall experience on the mountain. It is worth noting that mental strength plays a significant role as well. A strong mental fortitude enables climbers to push through fatigue, discomfort, and the physical challenges of climbing. It is the determination of the mind that propels each step, especially when the body urges for a break. During your training, it is crucial to push your limits in order to build your mental resilience. This will ensure that you are mentally prepared to overcome any obstacles you may encounter on your journey.
Gear: Being Ready For Everything
Having incorrect gear when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can greatly impede your progress and put your safety at risk. Insufficient protection against the harsh conditions of the mountain, such as jackets or sleeping bags, can drain your energy and hinder your recovery. Low-quality gear raises the chances of getting injured, lowers your endurance and performance, and compromises your safety. On the other hand, having the right equipment sets the basis for safety, comfort, and the overall successful completion of the climb, while the wrong gear can result in a series of adverse consequences.
Routes
Machame Route This is probably the most beautiful route, due to the nature of its tree-climbing start, and also the less traveled second part. The highlight of the trek is coming down from the final summit, going down a steep descent, under the beautiful Heim glacier and Breach wall. Marangu also goes through this part in the opposite direction, but being tired after the final summit, trekkers don’t have any energy left to admire the sights. Success rates are intermediate, with plenty of choice in terms of operators. Overall, the popular routes tend to be crowded during the high seasons, so it is advised to check with the company the destination and crowd levels on any given departure date.
Marangu Route This is the least expensive route but also the most popular, resulting in relatively poor success rates. It is also the only route offering hut accommodation, which is one of the main reasons people choose it. It is unfortunately also one of the most difficult routes, due to its steep climb and also the very fast ascent. Its major downside is that the final night ascent to the summit is a long and grueling exercise, that only the fit can manage, and which also can be quite frustrating due to the traffic on the way up. It is common for hikers to leave at midnight and come back to camp around 9 to 10 in the morning, completely pooped.
Marangu Route
Marangu Route (5-6 days): Often called the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu is well-liked for its gentle slopes and hut accommodations. Interestingly, it is considered an “easy route” despite having the lowest success rates. This highlights the limitations of shorter climbs in terms of acclimatization. According to the park service, the success rate for the 5-day Marangu route is approximately 30%, while for the 6-day Marangu route it is around 50%-55%. However, our success rates on the Marangu route are consistently 15-20% higher than these figures.
Many travellers will also express a desire to use the Marangu route because it is the only route that uses huts for accommodation as opposed to tents. Most trekking companies will dissuade clients from this route for a number of reasons. First, private fly camps (tents that are stored and erected for individual climbers) are usually a better way to experience a trek. They are lighter, allowing the hikers to be able to trek much lighter during their time on the mountain. They are more personal, in that there is a cook and a servant constantly ready to attend to the group’s needs. Second, the huts are simple and they are 10-20 years past their prime. On a warm night, they are hotter than their mountain environs, as they suck in the sun all day long and don’t allow for much ventilation. On a cold night, there is usually not enough mattresses (they are not supplied) to allow for comfortable, insulated sleeping. Most groups will forgo use of the huts and the trekking company will send a portable toilet, dining tent, and a shower. And, of course, people who use the Marangu Route are 40-50% less likely to be successful.
There seem to be two key reasons why so many people are unsuccessful on the Marangu Route. First, it attracts a lot of unprepared travellers. It is the preferred route for trekkers who are attempting Kilimanjaro in 5 days, which means they hail from organizations that are not serious about a successful summit attempt. This drives the Marangu average down as those trekkers bring the success rate of other routes up. I would estimate the overall success rate for 6-day attempts on the Marangu Route is closer to 50-55%. Second, and this is one of the reasons I advise most travellers to avoid it, the Marangu route tends to be overcrowded. On summit night, the horde moves slowly. This is bad for both morale and the body, as you end up stopping and waiting in the dark for hours during a bitterly cold evening.
Machame Route
Machame Route (6-7 days): Known as the “Whiskey” route, Machame is more demanding but provides better opportunities for acclimatization. When considering all operators, it is estimated that the success rate for 6-day Machame climbs is about 50%, and for 7-day Machame climbs it is around 70%. In contrast, our 6-day Machame route boasts a success rate of approximately 70-75%, while our 7-day Machame route has a success rate of approximately 85-90%.
Suggested climb: with an acclimatization day at Shira camp that can cost any group a “buffer day” in case of altitude sickness, and would offer a much greater chance of reaching the summit. All in all, if you like walking a winding path and don’t mind the company offered by the high accessibility, the Machame route is a hike for you. For others who may wish to avoid the crowds and the possible impact on the overall success rate, you may also want to look at other options like Rongai, where you can complete an earlier acclimatizing hike at 4,000 meters. But Machame’s steep rise to 5,000 meters in just two days, followed by the 1,200 meters of altitude gain up to Stella Point before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, tests everyone in good physical condition.
The Machame route is the second most popular and can be summited in six or seven days. Its success rate is better than the Marangu route. It begins near the southern base of the mountain, within its green rainforest. Once climbers get into the heath/moorland section, the environment provides stunning cross-section views of the peak and the Shira plateau and ground. Climbing on the Machame route, trekkers walk up a path that has more twists and turns. The trail is higher up much of the time, which traditionally gives more time for acclimatization. However, we frequently get reports from clients who encounter hordes of climbers on the Machame route. This climb, unless privately arranged and custom-tailored, can therefore feel busier than some of the other routes.
Lemosho Route Success Rate
Lemosho Route (8 days): Beginning from the west, Lemosho provides an excellent balance of fewer crowds, stunning scenery, and a high success rate at the summit. It is our preferred route. Considering all operators, the success rate for 8-day Lemosho climbs is estimated to be around 90%. However, our historical success rate for the 8-day Lemosho route ranges between 90-95%.
The Lemosho route is generally less popular than the Machame Route it joins on the fourth day. It is a dramatic and exciting route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the west. There are various options, the complete version spending a day circling along the Shira Plateau, and a possible shortcut leaving this out, gaining the Machame Route. You spend the first night outside the park before hitting the western breach; see below. One of the best routes, I have only taken it once and estimate the one-day total numbers, per day, at only about 18 people starting from Londorossi. With these low numbers, you will have no trouble having a long drop for “number two” with only some very scenic views (do not drop your trousers beforehand, it is not get “this close”. You prefer the inglorious plastic bags left for this purpose.
Overall, this is an amazing route in the sense that there are now many people who make it to the summit and like it quite a lot. The latter is somewhat of a problem. For example, on the Barranco Wall, there is considerable traffic jam since many other Kilimanjaro trekkers use the Machame route and join on the summit attempt just after the Western Breach. Another jam is on the summit itself at sunrise! I remember in 2000, where there were only about 20 people on the summit in total, the last of our group primarily was cheering and clapping hands once he made it to the top. Right or wrong: This will not be the atmosphere, and the atmosphere is the decisive factor.
Northern Circuit (9 days):
As the longest route circumventing the mountain, the Northern Circuit offers the best prospects for acclimatization. When taking all operators into account, the success rate for the 9-day Northern Circuit route ranges from 85-95%. However, our success rate for the 9-day Northern Circuit route is approximately 95-98%. As a result, this route boasts the highest success rate on Kilimanjaro.
Rongai Route
Rongai Route (6-7 days): This less-travelled path from the north offers a quieter and more remote climb. Combining data from all operators, the success rate for the 6-day Rongai route is approximately 50%, and for the 7-day Rongai route it is about 70%. However, our 6-day Rongai route has a success rate of approximately 70-75%, while our 7-day Rongai route sees a success rate of approximately 85-90%.
Summit success rates appear to correlate negatively with the number of climbers per party, with a decrease in the likelihood of reaching the summit due to more party members. This is consistent with the fact that the number of climbers in a party affects the rate of potential disturbances to acclimatization during ascent. The higher proportion of individuals rather than members of an organized party to reach the summit underscores substantial losses – due to logistical, psychological, or physiological reasons – compared to an idealized, independent situation. While not significant at the α = 0.05 level, there is an indication that those taking more days to climb have a lower chance of reaching the summit on Day 1 of the climb, but this advantage may well be lost when taking even slower schedules of, say 8 days and more gatherings of failure data.
Out of 54 climbers, 22 (40.7%) failed to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro by the Rongai route. Because the first day of the Rongai route is the same as for the Marangu route, the Rongai route bypasses it with a direct approach almost devoid of campsites. Moreover, the day of assault to the summit from Kibo Hut is undertaken with an insufficient swell of the acclimatization profile, which makes summit day the toughest – in terms of altitude exposure – of all Kilimanjaro routes. The statistics presented on the table display a pattern of high failure rates on the summit day itself, the fewest the day before. These effects are consistent with the acclimatization profiles of the respective routes.
The Rongai route ascends Kilimanjaro from the northeast, and the descent goes down the southeast side. The route can take six to eight days. The success rates presented as percentages are for the first attempt. Most climbers who fail to reach the summit are affected by exhaustion (including altitude sickness), other illness, or lack of energy. The rest either turn around because they show symptoms of altitude sickness or are advised to turn around. Routes with higher success rates generally have a profile that aids acclimatization, such as the so-called “climb high, sleep low” principle commonly associated with the Machame and Lemosho routes.
Umbwe Route (6-7 days):
With its steep and rapid ascent, Umbwe is considered the most challenging route. Unfortunately, there is limited data available for the Umbwe route. However, we estimate that the success rate for the 6-day Umbwe route is approximately 50%, and for the 7-day Umbwe route it is around 70%. Please note that we rarely guide climbers on the Umbwe route due to the level of difficulty.
Shira Route (8 days):
Starting at a higher altitude, the Shira route immediately tests climbers’ ability to acclimatize. However, there is insufficient data on the Shira route. We estimate that the success rate for the 8-day Shira route is approximately 85%. Nonetheless, we have limited experience guiding climbers on the Shira route.
Factors Affecting Success Rates
For example, looking at the Machame Route in the graph above, its highest point, Barafu Camp, at 4640m, is 1550m higher than its lowest point, the Machame Gate, at 3090m. In comparison, the Marangu route ‘only’ has an altitude difference of 1100m. Not significantly less, but still a big difference. On the varying routes of Kilimanjaro, the two sections of each hike with the largest spread in elevation are always the beginning and the end. The Shira route, for example, breaks up these two steep sections by walking higher sections on most days, hence the higher success rate. Likewise, the 8-day Lemosho Route can minimize the potential for altitude sickness by including 3 additional days of similar distances, but at higher altitudes than the Machame Route. After looking at these graphs for a while, here’s an important reminder: while things such as success rates are interesting to look at when starting research for your Kilimanjaro climb, keep in mind that every hiker is unique and what has worked well for some may not work as well for you.
Many people wonder what makes one route more successful than another. There is rarely a simple answer to a question as complex as this, but there are a few factors we do know of that play a major role. Firstly, one thing often taken into account is the distances walked each day. The reality is, that the longer you take to summit Kilimanjaro, the higher your chances become. Longer hikes acclimatize the body more slowly, which helps prevent altitude sickness and increases your chances of making it to the summit. This being said, longer hikes also require hikers to start at higher elevations, cutting down precious time to acclimatize. While distance sections are an important aspect to consider, remember that there is a third aspect to keep in mind: the difference in elevation between the highest and lowest point of a particular section.
Altitude
All of these symptoms are far more severe the higher above sea level one climbs. This is why acclimatization, or spending time allowing the body to adapt to higher altitudes, is necessary in most cases when climbing over 12,000 feet, while heavy mountaineering is usually only done above 20,000 feet. Furthermore, while there is no altitude limit for contracting altitude sickness, symptoms usually start developing at altitudes between 8,000 and 8,000 feet. For these reasons, the highest altitude possible on each route was considered for comparison. The maximum and mean altitudes for each route can be seen in Table 14.
Once you start ascending, this process will be released, although the time it takes to act is slow relative to the rate of ascent. However, the air inside your body can act more quickly. Usually, it does so by trying to exit the body through any available orifice. The most inconvenient of these means is when the air tries to exit the body by passing through the walls of the intestines. This can lead to a bad case of the bends that usually occurs after scuba diving and is the reason why one should not visit high altitude if they have been scuba diving in the last 24 hours.
In response to that decreased supply of oxygen, the body tries to acclimatize by increasing how much of your blood that your heart pumps through your lungs. This is very useful but will over time lead to an increase and swelling of the brain due to this increased blood flow. Additionally, the low pressure will cause the air to try and even out with the pressure within your body. This essentially means that the same amount of air is pressing on the inside of your body as the outside.
Altitude is not only directly responsible for many of the symptoms of altitude sickness, but is also indirectly responsible for many of the other symptoms. At high altitudes, the atmosphere contains considerably less oxygen compared to sea level, and the pressure of that air is also considerably less. Because the partial pressure of the oxygen in the air is lower, less oxygen is transferred into your bloodstream when you breathe.
Acclimatization
When it comes to choosing a trip, there are a few factors to consider. The Northern Circuit route is relatively crowded at local maximums, given the fact that there is less variation in ascending and descending altitude. A slightly faster overall pace on an 8-day Northern Circuit route gets us to camp an hour or two after the last of the other two groups, so the available camping space is not a factor. Selecting a seven-day trip instead of an eight-day trip provides one less opportunity to acclimatize. However, the pace on this route is considerably slower compared to the other routes. For the longer trail options such as the Shira route, the Machame route, and the Umbwe route, we are starting at an overall higher elevation, requiring acclimatization at each stop. Therefore, we can consider that at least a portion of the two extra days is offset by the fact that the overall trip is starting higher. In addition, we can keep the overall pace to that of the one-day longer trip. In researching the numbers, don’t just go by the overall summit success rate. If the group you are going with has historically worked well as a team or with a particular guide, and it’s the minimum number of days you are capable of, then go for it! The success rate of a particular make of car does not guarantee success or failure for our individual journey.
Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb. However, the success rate on the 5-day Marangu route is less than 50%, and the success rate on the 6-day Marangu route is below 70%. The issue is that every individual trekker reacts differently to the changes in altitude. There are hundreds of guides on the mountain, and each has an opinion as to the best way to acclimatize. Some favor the longest possible trip with designed acclimatization days at Lava Tower and Karanga Valley. With the cost of climbing Kilimanjaro, the longer this trip, the less likely this trip becomes as the number of people able to make the longer trip gets smaller and smaller. There are two popular 8-day variations of the Northern Circuit route: a Northern Circuit 8-day and the Northern Circuit 7-day. Based on published success rates, the 8-day variation has the potential to offer a better success rate.
Weather Conditions
The main risk factors that affect trips going to high altitude are the sudden onset of a specific weather phenomenon, poor knowledge of the area and its microclimate, paradoxical decisions, lack of communication or rescue intervention. Taken individually, even the presence of a single factor may not cause harm, but when combined they may lead to catastrophe. Therefore, identifying possible weather anomalies and risks is crucial, especially in known dangerous areas. Among operators, especially in relation to long altitude trips (climbing mountains, changing glaciers, ascending very tall buildings), there should be preparation for paradoxical decision, which can be a result of combined factors such as altitude, presence of hypoxia, fatigue, cold strike, and significant psychological stress and can be rooted in reduced situational awareness.
Bad weather can significantly affect daily distances and physiological condition of climbers. Harsh weather conditions are often perceived as a technical or psychological barrier by the participants. Moreover, it is a life-threatening condition on summit day when temperatures may fall to -20 °C. The symptom often clashes with the time constraints of operators and climbers, which can lead to reluctant summit attempts. A combination of risk assessment, weather forecast sharing, and fast intervention at potential bottlenecks, as well as continuous communication, can help create a shared decision-making process that includes at least all the staff on the mountain and a majority of the climbers in order to give them the opportunity to add their individual data and expectations. While nobody working on Kilimanjaro is responsible for deciding who goes up or down, the decision aids provided by knowledge management and freedom to communicate should ensure that the climbers have access to timely and accurate information about constraints and forecasts and make them more able to decide appropriately.
Best Success Guide & Ratings for Summiting Kilimanjaro
To increase your chances of a successful summit, consider climbing during the dry season from July to September. Prepare yourself physically and mentally with guided training tailored specifically for Kilimanjaro. Choose a route that suits your abilities and take it slow to allow for proper acclimatization. Don’t forget to pack essential hiking gear and stay hydrated throughout your journey. With the right preparation and determination, you can reach the summit of Kilimanjaro and achieve your climbing goals!”
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Guide: Follow our comprehensive guide for a successful summit.
Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro: Choose the dry season from July to September for optimal conditions.
Guided Training for Kilimanjaro: Increase your chances of success with specialized training programs.
Route Selection: Choose a route that suits your abilities and preferences for the best experience.
Acclimatization: Take it slow and allow time for acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.
Essential Hiking Gear: Pack all the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable climb.
Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout your journey to maintain peak performance.
Physical and Mental Strength: Prepare both your body and mind for the challenges of climbing Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro Success Rate: Trust our guide and ratings to help you achieve a successful summit.
Overall Kilimanjaro Success Rate Analysis:
The analysis revealed several key findings:
Successful Summit Percentage: Approximately 61.3% of climbers successfully reached the Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro.
Stops at Gilmans’ Point: About 16% of climbers reached Gilmans’ Point, located at 5600 meters on the summit crater rim, but did not proceed to the summit, which is approximately 1.5 hours away.
Descents at Various Points: Over 14.4% of climbers descended at various points between 4700 meters and Gilmans’ Point (5600 meters).
Failure to Leave Final Hut: Approximately 8.3% of climbers failed to leave the final hut at 4700 meters, indicating challenges even before the summit attempt.
Incidence of AMS: The overall incidence of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) during the summit attempt day was reported to be 77%, highlighting the significant impact of altitude-related health issues.
Discussion of Main Findings:
High Incidence of AMS: The study underscores a high prevalence of AMS among climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro, indicating the physiological challenges posed by high altitude.
Unsuccessful Summit Attempts: A considerable proportion of climbers did not reach the summit, suggesting the difficulty of the ascent and the need for adequate preparation and acclimatization.
Impact of Acetazolamide: The use of acetazolamide was found to improve summit success and reduce the incidence and intensity of AMS, particularly for climbers following a slower ascent profile. This highlights the potential benefits of medical interventions in mitigating altitude-related health risks.
Comparison Between Various Kilimanjaro Routes Success Rates:
When selecting the most suitable route among the six Kilimanjaro routes (Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Northern Circuit, Rongai, and Umbwe), it’s essential to consider their unique characteristics and success rates. Here’s a comparison based on route duration and corresponding success rates:
5 days route will give you 60% – 70% success rate.
6 days route will give you 65% – 70% success rate.
7 days route will give you 75% – 80% success rate.
8 days route will give you 80% – 90% success rate.
9 days route will give you 85% – 95% success rate.
WHY DOES THE KILIMANJARO SUCCESS RATE DIFFER FOR VARIOUS KILIMANJARO ROUTES?
The success rate of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is greatly influenced by two important factors. The first factor is the amount of time spent on the mountain, specifically the rate of ascent. The duration of the climb directly impacts the process of acclimatization and consequently affects your chances of reaching the summit. If you choose a 7-day climb, the likelihood of reaching the top is lower compared to adding an extra day for acclimatization. By doing so, you significantly increase your chances of witnessing a breathtaking sunrise from the Uhuru Peak. The second factor that plays a role in determining your Kilimanjaro success rate is your body’s ability to acclimatize. Acclimatization largely depends on physiological factors and varies among individuals due to genetic variations. People possess different levels of adaptation ability when it comes to acclimatizing to the altitude. Ultimately, what helps you achieve success when climbing Kilimanjaro is a combination of your determination to succeed and receiving guidance from the right tour operator. Selecting the appropriate tour operator with the necessary expertise and knowledge can greatly enhance your chances of successfully reaching the summit.
TOP KILIMANJARO ROUTES SUCCESS RATES
When discussing the success rates of climbing Kilimanjaro, there are six routes that have a higher success rate and offer a good acclimatization profile. The Lemosho Route has a success rate of 90% and takes about 7 to 8 days to reach the summit. It begins from the western side of Kilimanjaro. The Northern Circuit Route has the highest success rate of 95% among all the routes. This route starts from the southeast and provides a direct path to the top with a good acclimatization profile. The Machame Route also has a success rate of 90% but has a more challenging path with many ups and downs. It follows a “climb high and sleep low” profile and approaches from the south. The Marangu Route has a lower success rate of 65% due to the lack of preparedness among hikers and is often known as the “tourist route.” This route is famous for providing hut accommodations and approaches from the south. The Rongai Route has a success rate of 85% and is the only dry northern route that can be visited year-round. The toughest route among all is the Umbwe Route with a success rate of 75%. It is the most challenging and steepest route, approaching from the south.
WHICH KILIMANJARO ROUTE HAS THE HIGHEST SUCCESS RATE?
The Northern Circuit Route boasts an impressive Kilimanjaro Success Rate of 95% and it approaches the iconic mountain from the south. This route is the latest addition and the longest among the options, but it rewards climbers with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro’s scenery. It usually takes 8 to 9 days to conquer the summit on this remarkable route. The remarkable thing about the Northern Circuit Route is that it offers an unparalleled experience for climbers, with its vast array of stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. From the moment you embark on this adventure, you will be captivated by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. As you ascend higher, the scenery becomes even more awe-inspiring, with snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and rugged terrain stretching as far as the eye can see. The Northern Circuit Route takes you through various climatic zones, allowing you to witness the dramatic changes in vegetation and weather patterns. This diversity adds to the challenge and excitement of the climb, making it a truly unforgettable journey. The route is also known for its high success rate, thanks to its gradual ascent and ample time for acclimatization. This not only increases the chances of reaching the summit but also ensures the safety and well-being of climbers. The Northern Circuit Route provides ample opportunities for rest and recovery, with designated campsites offering comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Guided by experienced mountaineers, you will receive expert guidance and support throughout the expedition, ensuring that you are well-prepared and equipped for the challenges ahead. The journey culminates in reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at an awe-inspiring altitude of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. As you stand on the peak, you will be filled with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and awe as you witness the striking beauty of the African continent beneath you. It is a moment that will stay etched in your memory forever. The Northern Circuit Route truly offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining adventure, natural beauty, and personal triumph. Whether you are an experienced climber or a novice adventurer, this route will test your limits and push you to new heights. The sense of achievement and camaraderie among fellow climbers will leave a lasting impression on you, as you conquer one of the world’s most iconic mountains. Join the ranks of those who have successfully completed the Northern Circuit Route and embark on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and unforgettable memories.
TOP TIPS FOR KILIMANJARO HIGH SUCCESS RATE
It’s all about the right Kilimanjaro Route: There exist a total of 7 diverse paths to ascend the magnificent peak. Opting for the appropriate Kilimanjaro Route greatly enhances your chances of accomplishing a remarkable triumph on the majestic mountain.
Train Well For Kilimanjaro: Focus on developing your body’s capacity to adapt to the ever-changing conditions at the pinnacle. Engaging in a comprehensive workout routine consisting of strength training, aerobic exercises, climbing, running, and other activities proves beneficial.
Go wild and expect the Unexpected: When you find yourself on the mountain, uncertainty becomes the usual circumstance. It is crucial to anticipate the need to consume Kilimanjaro cuisine, spend your nights in camps, and undertake bodily functions outside of your habitual comfort.
Carry The Right Gears: Having high-quality equipment and gear plays a vital role in ensuring your successful ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Drink Plenty Of Water: To prevent the onset of altitude-induced sickness, it is crucial to consume a copious amount of water. Make sure to stow a minimum of 3-4 liters of water per day during your trek.
Be Aware of the Signs of Altitude Sickness: A knowledgeable guide from Tranquil Kilimanjaro will assist you in adapting to the high altitude conditions of Kilimanjaro by monitoring your health regularly and helping you adjust to the changing weather patterns on the mountain. This proactive approach greatly reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
Keeping a Slow and Steady Pace is Essential: Moving at a leisurely pace while aiming to reach impressive altitudes is key. When undertaking the challenge of ascending Kilimanjaro, climbers must remember that it is not a race. Instead, they must dedicate ample time to steadily progress towards their ultimate goal.
BEST SUCCESS GUIDE & RATINGS FOR SUMMIT KILIMANJARO
For a successful ascent, it is crucial to follow our detailed Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Guide. To increase your chances of reaching the summit, it is recommended to climb during the dry season, which spans from July to September. Additionally, taking part in our guided Training for Kilimanjaro will greatly improve your chances of success. It is important to choose a route that suits your abilities and to pace yourself, allowing for proper acclimatization. Equipping yourself with essential hiking gear for Kilimanjaro is essential, as is staying hydrated throughout the climb. Both physical and mental strength are paramount for a successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. We are confident that our provided Climb Kilimanjaro Guide, along with the Kilimanjaro Success Rate we have achieved, will greatly assist you in achieving your goal of summiting this magnificent mountain.
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