#1, Lemosho Route vs. Machame Route: Which Is Better for Climbing Kilimanjaro?

When planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the right route. Among the most popular and scenic options are the Lemosho Route and the Machame Route — both offering incredible scenery, high summit success rates, and proper acclimatization profiles.

But which one is right for you?

This guide compares the Lemosho Route vs. Machame Route across key aspects like scenery, difficulty, acclimatization, duration, cost, crowd levels, and success rates, helping you make an informed decision for a safe and rewarding Kilimanjaro climb.

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏞 Route Scenery & Landscape

Lemosho Route

Lemosho is widely regarded as the most scenic route on Kilimanjaro. It begins on the remote western slopes, crossing the lush Londorossi rainforest, then ascending through Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and the Southern Circuit before summiting via Stella Point. Views of Mount Meru, expansive moorlands, and deep gorges make it ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

Machame Route

Known as the “Whiskey Route”, Machame is dramatic and rugged. The trail moves from the rainforest to steep ridges, then onto the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and famous Barranco Wall. It also offers the Southern Circuit scenery — but compared to Lemosho, less solitude and more foot traffic.

🧭 Acclimatization Profile

Lemosho Route

Lemosho’s longer duration (especially the 8-day version) allows for a slower ascent, giving trekkers better acclimatization and higher summit success rates. The route includes several “climb high, sleep low” stages that help your body adjust gradually to altitude.

Machame Route

Machame also offers good acclimatization through strategic elevation gain and descent (e.g., via Lava Tower and Barranco Valley), but has fewer days than Lemosho, making the adaptation period tighter. Opting for 7 days instead of 6 greatly improves success.

🧗 Difficulty & Trekking Experience

Lemosho Route

The trail is moderately challenging, especially from day 3 onward, but spread over more days. It’s less steep at the start and gives climbers more time to adjust. The longer trek means better pacing and fewer altitude-related issues.

Machame Route

More physically demanding due to shorter time, steeper terrain, and rapid elevation gain, especially in the early days. Suitable for fit hikers, but not recommended for first-timers unless on the 7-day version.

🚶 Crowd Levels

Lemosho Route

Begins on the remote western side and joins the Machame trail only after Day 3. For the first couple of days, hikers enjoy peace, wildlife sightings, and untouched forest trails. It’s perfect for trekkers seeking more privacy and a quieter climb.

Machame Route

It’s the most popular Kilimanjaro route, which means more trekkers, busier camps, and sometimes congested trails — especially in peak seasons. Great for social trekkers, but not ideal for solitude.

💰 Cost Comparison

Lemosho tends to be slightly more expensive due to its longer itinerary and remote starting point (which requires longer transport). However, the added acclimatization days and reduced risk of failure can make it worth the investment.

🎯 Who Should Choose Which Route?

Choose Lemosho Route If You:

• Want maximum acclimatization and high summit success

• Prefer a quieter, more remote start

• Value diverse and extended scenery

• Have the budget and time for an 8-day adventure

• Are a first-time high-altitude trekker

Choose Machame Route If You:

• Are physically fit and want a challenge

• Are on a tighter budget or schedule

• Enjoy a social trekking atmosphere

• Are doing the 7-day version for better acclimatization

🗻 Final Verdict

Both the Lemosho and Machame Routes are excellent choices for summiting Kilimanjaro — sharing much of the same upper-mountain path and offering phenomenal scenery and success rates.

• For those seeking a quieter, slower-paced, scenic route with high success, Lemosho is the clear winner.

• For the more budget-conscious adventurer who wants a thrilling climb and is short on time, Machame delivers.

Ultimately, your fitness level, schedule, and preference for crowds vs. solitude should guide your choice.