Choosing the right route is one of the most important decisions when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Two of the most popular options are the Itinéraire Lemosho and the Itinéraire Machame—both scenic, successful, and well-established.
But which one is right for you?
This guide compares Lemosho vs Machame Route based on acclimatization, difficulty, success rates, crowd levels, and overall experience.
🌍 Overview: Lemosho vs Machame
| Feature | Itinéraire Lemosho | Itinéraire Machame |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7 à 8 jours | 6 à 7 jours |
| Taux de réussite | ~90% | ~85% |
| Acclimatation | Excellent | Very Good (7 days) |
| Paysage | Remote & diverse | Dramatic & iconic |
| Crowds | Low–Moderate | Haut |
| Difficulté: | Modérée | Moderate–Challenging |
🥇 Lemosho Route: Best for Acclimatization & Scenery
Why choose Lemosho?
Longer itinerary allows gradual altitude gain
Excellent “climb high, sleep low” profile
Starts on the quieter western side
One of the highest summit success rates
Lemosho is widely considered the best all-round Kilimanjaro route, especially for first-time climbers.
✅ Best for:
Beginners
Climbers worried about altitude sickness
Those wanting fewer crowds and scenic variety
🥈 Machame Route: Best for Adventure & Challenge
Why choose Machame?
Steeper and more physically demanding
Famous Barranco Wall adds adventure
Strong acclimatization when done in 7 days
Stunning southern circuit views
Machame is often called the “Whiskey Route” due to its tougher terrain compared to Marangu.
⚠️ Important:
Avoid 6-day Machame itineraries if possible—they increase altitude sickness risk.
✅ Best for:
Randonneurs en forme
Adventure seekers
Climbers comfortable with crowds
Winner: Lemosho Route
Lemosho’s extra days and gentle altitude gain make it safer for acclimatization. Machame performs well too—but only with a 7-day itinerary.
👥 Crowd Levels
Lemosho: Starts quiet, merges later
Machame: Busy from early stages
If solitude matters, Lemosho is the better choice.
🧠 Which Route Should You Choose?
Choose Itinéraire Lemosho si:
✔ Vous êtes un grimpeur débutant
✔ You want the best acclimatization
✔ You prefer fewer crowds
✔ Summit success is your top priority
Choose Itinéraire Machame si:
✔ You want a more adventurous trek
✔ You’re physically fit
✔ You don’t mind busy trails
✔ You choose a 7-day itinerary
🏁 Verdict final (Recommandation 2026)
🥇 Itinéraire Lemosho – Best overall choice
🥈 Route de Machame (7 jours) – Best for adventure
Les deux voies sont excellentes, mais Lemosho offre un taux de réussite plus élevé et une acclimatation plus sûre, ce qui en fait l'option préférée de la plupart des grimpeurs.
🔥 Lemosho is the best overall route for comfort, success rate, and scenery.
🔥 Machame is best for budget-conscious but fit trekkers who want a more adventurous climb.
To read full route details:
👉 Lemosho Route: https://kilimanjaroclimbingclub.com/lemosho-route/
👉 Machame Route: https://kilimanjaroclimbingclub.com/machame-route/
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