$2,178 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arusha to Marangu Gate - Mandara Hut
Arusha to Marangu Gate - Mandara Hut
The Marangu Route begins at Marangu Gate (1,870 meters) on the southeastern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. After a scenic two-hour drive from Arusha, passing through the charming village of Marangu, you’ll arrive at the gate. Here, you’ll meet your trekking team, complete registration with the National Park Authorities, and observe porters assembling and weighing the gear they’ll carry throughout the climb.
The first day’s trek is a gradual ascent through the lush rainforest, a vibrant ecosystem filled with unique flora and the possibility of spotting wildlife like colobus monkeys and tropical birds.
You’ll spend your first night at the Mandara Frame Huts (2,700 meters), a well-maintained campsite offering basic comforts, including solar-powered lighting, flush toilets, and piped water from a nearby mountain stream. Each hut accommodates 6–8 people in bunk beds, so earplugs are recommended if you’re a light sleeper. Rest well in preparation for the journey ahead!
Day 2
Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
On this day early after breakfast, you will start your trekking at around 8:00 am.
The trek continues through the rainforest, around the base of the Maundi Crater and then transitions rather rapidly into the low alpine moorland zone.
If the weather is clear, you should definitely take the opportunity to scramble up the Maundi Crater to get your first full view of Kibo. During the trek, you will also see giant lobelias which are scattered throughout the landscape at this altitude. The trek takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to complete and covers a distance of (11.5km / 7miles).
At Horombo Hut at an altitude of (3,720 meters), you will be served dinner and shown to your sleeping quarters for the night.
Day 3
Acclimatisation at Horombo Hut
Acclimatisation at Horombo Hut
Horombo Hut is dedicated to acclimatization, which is crucial for preparing your body for the higher altitudes. After breakfast, we’ll embark on a hike towards Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s majestic peaks. The hike will take around 3 hours of steady climbing, followed by a 1.5-hour descent back to Horombo Hut.
This hike is designed to help your body adjust to the thinning air and improve your chances of a successful summit. Acclimatization hikes like this one are key to preventing altitude sickness and allowing your body to gradually adapt to the altitude. We highly recommend this excursion to maximize your chances of reaching the summit with confidence.
Spend the rest of the day resting, hydrating, and enjoying your surroundings at Horombo Hut, as the evening sets in and you prepare for the next stages of your trek.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Horombo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
After an early breakfast at Horombo Hut, you’ll begin the 1,000-meter ascent to Kibo Hut, covering a distance of approximately 10 km. The trek will take you through the alpine desert, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you approach the base of Kibo Peak.
It's important to fill up your water reserves at Horombo Hut, as there will be no more water sources until you return after reaching the summit. However, bottled mineral water is available for purchase at Kibo Hut if needed.
Once at Kibo Hut, you’ll be served an early dinner and have a few hours to rest and prepare. We recommend getting to bed early, ideally by 7:00 pm, as you'll be awakened around 11:30 pm to begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak (the summit). Ensure all your gear is ready for a prompt departure, including insulated water, snacks, your headlamp, and a camera to capture the unforgettable moments on your journey to the roof of Africa.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Kibo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Then Horombo Hut
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Then Horombo Hut
This day begins with summit night. After being awoken, you will be served some hot tea and biscuits and then begin your summit ascent.
This route follows a rocky path to the first checkpoint, Hans Meyer Cave at 5,150 meters. Then continue to zigzag for a good 2-3 hours until you get to Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters) on Kibo’s crater rim. You will most likely be very tired at this point.
Take some time to rest and refuel with a snack. The final push is tough and requires mental stamina. Focus on moving slowly and deliberately for the final 200-meter ascent.
- Main Destination:
- Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro)
- Accommodation:
- Horombo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate - Arusha
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate - Arusha
On the final day of your trek, you’ll descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, covering nearly 20 km. This final stretch usually takes around 7 hours to complete, but after days of trekking, you’ll likely find your thoughts drifting to the hot shower awaiting you that evening.
The descent takes you through beautiful moorland and rainforest, and as you approach the gate, a sense of accomplishment and relief will begin to set in. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you will receive your well-earned summit certificate as a testament to your determination and achievement.
It is customary to show your appreciation to your trekking team with tips, recognizing their hard work and support throughout the journey. Afterward, a vehicle will take you back to your hotel or your next destination, where you can begin celebrating your successful Kilimanjaro climb!
- Main Destination:
- Marangu Gate (Mt Kilimanjaro)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
