Many travelers’ dream journey is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and go trekking with mountain gorillas in East Africa at the same time. This guide will help you plan the perfect dual adventure, whether you’re an experienced hiker, a wildlife lover, or just someone who wants a trip that combines physical challenges with close encounters with nature.
This piece goes into great detail about the best ways to reach the top of Kilimanjaro, how to get the permits you need to go gorilla trekking, and insider tips for a smooth, mind-blowing trip.
The Best Routes to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northern Tanzania, is Africa’s tallest peak and one of the world’s most iconic trekking destinations. The climb doesn’t require technical climbing skills, but the route you choose can significantly impact your success, acclimatization, and overall experience.
- Machame Route (6–7 days)
- Nicknamed: The “Whiskey Route”
- Pros: Scenic, popular, high success rate with good acclimatization
- Cons: Can get crowded, especially in peak season
- Lemosho Route (7–8 days)
- Pros: Remote and quiet, excellent acclimatization, stunning scenery
- Cons: Slightly more expensive due to longer duration
- Marangu Route (5–6 days)
- Nicknamed: The “Coca-Cola Route”
- Pros: Huts instead of tents, easier logistics
- Cons: Shorter acclimatization window, lower success rate
- Rongai Route (6–7 days)
- Pros: Approaches from the north, less traffic, dry climate
- Cons: Less varied scenery than other routes
- Northern Circuit Route (8–9 days)
- Pros: Longest route = best acclimatization, low crowds, panoramic views
- Cons: Most expensive due to time and logistics
Pro Tip: Opt for a route that gives you 7 or more days to increase your chances of summit success and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Gorilla Trekking Permits: What You Need to Know
After summiting Kilimanjaro, many travelers fly to Rwanda or Uganda to fulfill the second half of their East African dream — tracking endangered mountain gorillas in the wild.
Gorilla trekking is highly regulated to protect these rare primates, and permits are mandatory.
- Where to Trek With Gorillas
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
- Easier access, shorter travel times, more luxurious options
- Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- More rugged, diverse group locations, offers budget-friendlier options
- Cost of Gorilla Permits (as of 2024)
- Rwanda: $1,500 USD per person
- Uganda: $800 USD per person (foreign non-residents)
Note: Permit prices vary for East African citizens and residents. Discounts may be available during the low season.
- How to Get Gorilla Permits
- Through authorized tour operators (recommended for international travelers)
- Directly from:
- Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
- Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
Important: Permits are limited to 8 people per group per day. Book 3–6 months in advance, especially for high-season travel (June–September & December–February).
Planning the Ultimate Route Combination
To make the most of your adventure, here’s how to smartly combine Kilimanjaro and gorilla trekking:
Sample Itinerary (12–14 Days)
- Day 1–2: Arrive in Tanzania (Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Day 3–9: Climb Mount Kilimanjaro (Lemosho or Machame Route)
- Day 10: Rest day in Arusha or Moshi
- Day 11: Fly to Kigali, Rwanda or Entebbe, Uganda
- Day 12–13: Gorilla trekking experience
- Day 14: Departure
Travel Tips
- Book a multi-country East Africa Tourist Visa (valid in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda).
- Use local eco-certified tour operators for sustainability and conservation support.
- Consider adding a Serengeti safari or Ngorongoro Crater visit if time allows.
What to Pack for a Dual Adventure
Packing for both a mountain and a rainforest requires strategic planning. Here are essentials for each:
Kilimanjaro Essentials
- Layered clothing (base, mid, and outer)
- Warm gloves, hat, and thermal wear
- Waterproof boots and jacket
- Daypack and hydration system
Gorilla Trekking Essentials
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirt and pants
- Gardening gloves (for pushing through brush)
- Gaiters or waterproof boots
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Camera with no flash
Pro Tip: A soft-sided duffel and a 30-40L daypack are ideal for both adventures.
The Adventure of a Lifetime
Few travel experiences are as exciting as reaching the top of Kilimanjaro or as close as looking into the eyes of a wild mountain gorilla. This combination of bucket-list items will take you from Tanzania’s glaciers to Rwanda’s or Uganda’s lush rainforests. It will be an adventure of a lifetime that honors both personal success and wildlife conservation.
This book has all the information you need to plan your honeymoon, a trip to find new things by yourself, or a big trek with a group.