Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route vs Lemosho Route – Which is the Better Climb?
The Machame and Lemosho Routes are two of the most scenic and successful trekking options on Mount Kilimanjaro. Both follow a similar southern circuit with excellent acclimatization profiles and high summit success rates. The Machame Route is slightly shorter and more popular, attracting many climbers for its dramatic views and varied landscapes. The Lemosho Route starts from the west and offers a quieter, more gradual ascent through untouched rainforest and Shira Plateau, making it ideal for those seeking a more remote experience with even better acclimatization. This guide compares both routes in terms of scenery, length, altitude gain, difficulty, and overall experience to help you make the right choice.
1. Introduction – Machame Route vs Lemosho Route
The Machame Route and the Lemosho Route are two of the most recommended ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Both routes are scenic, offer good acclimatization profiles, and are camping-based. However, they differ in starting points, crowds, and day-to-day experiences. This comparison helps you decide which route is better aligned with your trekking style, fitness level, and expectations.
2. Route Overview and Duration
The Machame Route starts from the southwest of Kilimanjaro and is often completed in 6 or 7 days. It is more direct, making it slightly steeper in sections. The Lemosho Route begins farther west and joins the Machame trail on Day 3 or 4, but it offers a more gradual climb, usually done in 7 or 8 days. The Lemosho Route is slightly longer, giving climbers better time to acclimatize to high altitude.
- Machame: 6–7 days, more popular and direct
- Lemosho: 7–8 days, longer and more remote start
3. Scenic Beauty and Diversity
Both routes are incredibly scenic and pass through Kilimanjaro’s rich ecological zones, from rainforest to alpine desert to glaciers. However, the Lemosho Route is considered more varied because of its remote western beginning. You’ll enjoy untouched wilderness for the first two days before merging with the Machame path. Machame also offers spectacular views, including the famous Barranco Wall, but you'll share the trail with more climbers.
- Machame: Lush rainforest, moorland, and Lava Tower views
- Lemosho: Remote forests, sweeping western slopes, panoramic vistas
4. Acclimatization and Success Rate
Lemosho is widely considered the better route for acclimatization due to its longer duration and gradual ascent profile. Both routes follow the “climb high, sleep low” strategy, but the extra day on Lemosho allows your body more time to adapt to the altitude. Machame is also effective, especially the 7-day version, but the 6-day version is more physically demanding and offers less time for adjustment.
- Machame 6-day: ~70% success rate
- Machame 7-day: ~85% success rate
- Lemosho 7-day: ~85% success rate
- Lemosho 8-day: ~90–95% success rate
5. Physical Challenge and Trail Style
Machame is steeper in the early days, particularly as you approach Shira Plateau and Lava Tower. Lemosho is more gradual early on, but both routes eventually converge and tackle similar terrain, including the Barranco Wall. Both require stamina and mental toughness, but Lemosho gives more recovery time due to its slower pace.
6. Traffic and Crowd Levels
The Machame Route is the most popular route on Kilimanjaro, attracting thousands of climbers each year. This means more campsites with other groups and a lively trekking atmosphere. The Lemosho Route, while growing in popularity, is quieter—especially during the first few days before it joins the Machame trail. If you're seeking solitude and a less crowded climb, Lemosho is the better choice.
- Machame: High traffic, more social
- Lemosho: Quieter, more remote start
7. Accessibility and Logistics
Machame is closer to Moshi and Arusha, making it easier and slightly cheaper to access. The Lemosho starting point requires a longer drive to Londorossi Gate, which increases cost but adds adventure. Both routes are fully supported by professional trekking teams including guides, porters, and cooks.
8. Who Should Choose Machame?
Machame is ideal if you:
- Have limited days (6 or 7) and want a cost-effective trek
- Are physically fit and ready for steeper sections
- Enjoy a more social atmosphere with fellow climbers
- Prefer a slightly more direct summit approach
9. Who Should Choose Lemosho?
The Lemosho Route is best if you:
- Prefer a quieter, more scenic approach
- Want higher summit success through gradual acclimatization
- Are climbing Kilimanjaro for the first time and want a more relaxed pace
- Have 7 or 8 days available for the trek
10. Final Thoughts – Lemosho vs Machame
In 2025, both the Lemosho and Machame routes remain excellent choices for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Machame is faster and more budget-friendly, while Lemosho is quieter, longer, and often more successful. Your decision depends on your fitness, budget, and how much time you can commit. If you want a well-balanced mix of scenery, acclimatization, and success, the Lemosho Route is arguably the best Kilimanjaro trekking route.
Jaynevy Tours offers guided climbs on both routes with full camping support, professional local guides, and personalized service. Let us help you reach the summit safely and confidently.
Contact us for Machame or Lemosho trekking packages, dates, and detailed pricing via Chat on WhatsApp or jaynevytours@gmail.com.