The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic, best-acclimatized, and professionally recommended routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching the mountain from the remote western side, the Lemosho Route offers a gradual ascent through diverse ecosystems before joining the Southern Circuit toward the summit.

The Machame Route, often referred to as the "Whiskey Route," is one of the most popular and visually dramatic routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its varied terrain, excellent acclimatization profile, and spectacular scenery, the Machame Route approaches the mountain from the southwest, ascending through dense rainforest before joining the Southern Circuit to the summit.

The Marangu Route, commonly known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the oldest and most established route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers permanent mountain hut accommodation, making it unique among Kilimanjaro climbing options.

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most comprehensive route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the best acclimatization profile and highest summit success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes. Approaching the mountain from the remote western side, the Northern Circuit traverses the rarely visited northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, beneath the dramatic cliffs of Mawenzi Peak, before completing the summit ascent from the east.

The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro route that approaches the mountain from the north, near the Kenya–Tanzania border. Known for its drier climate, gentle gradients, and quieter trails, the Rongai Route offers a more gradual and less crowded ascent compared to the southern routes.

The Shira Route is a western-approach Kilimanjaro route that begins at a higher starting elevation than most other routes, accessing the mountain via the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic caldera. The route offers wide-open landscapes, dramatic skies, and excellent views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

The Umbwe Route is widely regarded as the steepest and most direct route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching the mountain from the southern slopes, Umbwe ascends rapidly through dense rainforest and narrow ridges before joining the Southern Circuit near Barranco Camp.