Depending on your chosen route, plan for 7-9 days of awe-inspiring trekking. The routes that take 7 days on the mountain are the Machame Route, Rongai Route and Marangu Route. Have in mind that some of these routes can be done in less days, but this is something that we don’t recommend you do. While the Marangu route is typically completed in under seven days, it’s important to chat about safety when climbing up to 19,341 feet. We genuinely believe that rushing this experience might not be the best idea. Speeding through the ascent can increase the risk of altitude sickness, which is something we definitely want to avoid. Taking the time to acclimatize properly allows your body to adjust to the higher altitudes, making for a safer and more enjoyable journey to the summit. So, we highly suggest considering a more extended itinerary. This ensures you’ll have the best experience possible and make memories to treasure! Your safety and enjoyment should be your top priorities.

For a breathtaking journey, consider the Lemosho Route spanning 8 days. Or maybe opt for Rongai tranquil path in 7 days, or indulge in the Northern Circuit’s stunning 9 day expedition. The Western Breach route up Kilimanjaro is an adventurous but demanding path, known for its steep ascent. The route takes about 8 days, allowing for acclimatization and safety precautions. 

The Northern Circuit is the longest route, spanning 9 days, giving you plenty of time to soak in the stunning scenery and adjust to the altitude. This route takes you all around the mountain, offering a diverse range of landscapes. And don’t miss out on the unique experience of spending a night at Crater Camp, nestled near the summit. It’s an extraordinary opportunity usually included in longer itineraries and this unforgettable overnight stay in the caldera is a true highlight.

Whatever route you choose, remember to include travel days and allow for extra rest.

To make the most of your experience, consider taking additional days off work. This ensures you have ample time for preparation, travel, and recovery. Including travel to and from Kilimanjaro, as well as potential rest days before and after the climb, a total of 12-15 days off work is recommended for a comfortable and enriching adventure. Remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey—so savor every moment!

In general, the descent from the summit of Kilimanjaro, after a successful ascent, requires approximately 1.5 days to complete. For instance, if you’re following an 8-day itinerary on the Lemosho Route, the ascent phase would span 6.5 days, allowing for a steady and deliberate approach to reaching the summit. Once you’ve conquered this remarkable feat, the subsequent 1.5 days are allocated for the descent, ensuring ample time to relish the awe-inspiring vistas and guaranteeing a safe return. This thoughtfully balanced schedule not only heightens the likelihood of a successful summit but also enriches the overall experience, transforming your Kilimanjaro adventure into an unforgettable journey.

To ensure a safe and well-prepared Kilimanjaro climb, it’s recommended to allocate a total of 11 days/10 nights in the country. This includes 2 days prior to the ascent for acclimatization and logistical preparations, and an additional night after descending from the mountains for some well-deserved rest.

If you are traveling from the US, you can make the most of weekends and optimize your schedule, doing the following. A popular approach is departing from the United States on a Friday and arriving on Saturday night. This allows for a day of rest on Sunday, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet your guides, undergo a gear check, and get acclimated. The official climb typically commences on Monday. After conquering the summit, the descent occurs the following Monday, giving you ample time to soak in the incredible experience. Travelers often choose to either depart for their wildlife safari or commence their journey back home on Tuesday.

This well-structured timeline ensures you have the necessary time to acclimate, embark on your climb, and enjoy a seamless and memorable adventure on Kilimanjaro.