6-Day Summit to Savannah; Marangu Route & Mkomazi NP

Kili Hike Adventures

4.9/5 – 14 Reviews

$2,074 to $2,085 pp (USD)

2 travelers on Start date

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Overview Day by Day Rates Inclusions Getting There Offered By

Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

You'll be collected from the airport.
Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Day 1

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Elevation: 1,870m to 2,700m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Your journey begins at Marangu Gate, where you will register and start your climb. The trail starts with a gradual ascent through lush rainforest, where you may spot blue monkeys and a variety of bird species. The path is well-trodden and shaded, providing a pleasant start to your adventure. After a few hours, you will arrive at Mandara Hut, nestled among towering trees. In the afternoon, you have the option to explore Maundi Crater, which offers stunning views of northern Tanzania and Kenya. You'll return to Mandara Hut for dinner and an overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Marangu Gate (Mt Kilimanjaro)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 2

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

After breakfast, you leave the rainforest and ascend into the moorland zone. The trail opens up, offering expansive views of Kibo and Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro's twin peaks. As you hike, you will notice the change in vegetation, with giant heathers and unique plants like the endemic Lobelia deckenii. The path is mostly gentle, with some steeper sections, but the breathtaking scenery will keep you motivated. By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, where you can rest, acclimatize, and enjoy the sunset.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 3

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Today's trek takes you through the alpine desert, a stark and beautiful landscape. The terrain becomes more rugged, with fewer plants and a rocky path leading towards Kibo Hut. You’ll pass the last water point at the base of the Maua River, so it’s important to fill up your bottles. The air is thinner, and the temperatures drop as you ascend, making this a challenging day. You’ll reach Kibo Hut in the late afternoon, where you'll have an early dinner and go to bed early to prepare for the midnight summit push.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 4

Summit Day & Descent to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), descent to 3,720m
Distance: 20 km (5 km ascent, 15 km descent)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. Under the cover of darkness and with the help of your headlamp, you’ll make your way up the steep scree towards Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. This is the most physically and mentally demanding portion of the trek. As dawn approaches, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point, where you can rest briefly before continuing along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The sight of the sun rising over the landscape is unforgettable, making the grueling climb worthwhile. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll begin your descent back to Horombo Hut. The descent is long and tiring, but you’ll be able to rest and recover at Horombo Hut.

Main Destination:

Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 5

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate & Transfer to Mkomazi

After a good night's sleep, you’ll start your descent back to Marangu Gate. The trail takes you through the moorland and back into the lush rainforest, where you’ll notice the air becoming warmer and more humid. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement. From Marangu Gate, you’ll be transferred to Mkomazi National Park, a serene and lesser-known destination perfect for relaxation. After the long trek, this peaceful environment offers a welcome respite. You’ll check into your lodge or camp for a restful evening.

Main Destination:

Marangu Gate (Mt Kilimanjaro)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 6

Relaxation in Mkomazi National Park & Departure

Spend your final day in the tranquil surroundings of Mkomazi National Park. Enjoy a leisurely morning with the option of a light game drive to spot elephants, giraffes, and the park’s unique black rhinos. The park is a beautiful place to unwind after your Kilimanjaro climb. In the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax at the lodge or camp, enjoying the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. Later, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.