7 Days Kilimanjaro Hike via Marangu Route

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Moshi: Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts

   • Distance: 7 km / 4.3 mi • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours • Habitat: Rainforest • Elevation: 1,830m / 6,000ft to 2,740m / 9,000ft Your adventure begins with a one-hour scenic drive from Moshi to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu. The drive will take you through the picturesque Village of Marangu. Upon arrival at the park gate, we will complete the necessary registration formalities while observing the bustling activities of other trekkers and their crews. Once the permits are issued, the trek commences. This day leads you through the lush rainforest, characterized by its dense vegetation, towering trees, and abundant birdlife. Your guide will enrich the experience by pointing out various local flora and fauna. As you ascend, be prepared for the trail’s sometimes muddy and slippery conditions, gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended to ensure stability. You will reach Mandara Huts in the late afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy your first night on the mountain

2. Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

   • Distance: 11 km / 6.8 mi • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours • Habitat: Moorland • Elevation: 2,740m / 9,000ft to 3,690m / 12,100ft After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, you will leave the rainforest behind and continue on an ascending path. Today’s trek takes you through the heathland, where you will encounter unique plant species such as giant lobelias and groundsels. As you climb higher, the landscape gradually transforms into open moorland, characterized by small shrubs and expansive views. A lunch stop halfway offers a chance to rest and enjoy the stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. The day concludes as you reach Horombo Huts, situated beneath the impressive Kibo Summit. Temperatures at this altitude begin to drop, so it’s important to stay warm as you settle in for the night

3. Day 3: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts

   • Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours • Habitat: Semi-Desert • Elevation: 3,690m / 12,100ft to 4,695m / 15,400ft Following breakfast, you will continue ascending through the diminishing heathland, which gradually gives way to a barren, rocky landscape resembling a lunar terrain. This day’s trek will take you across the Saddle, a broad, desolate plain connecting Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. During lunch break, you’ll have time to take in the surreal surroundings and mentally prepare for the upcoming summit attempt. The trail continues until you reach Kibo Huts in the afternoon, where you will rest and acclimatize in preparation for the early morning summit push

4. Day 4: Summit Day: Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak, then Descent to Horombo Huts

   • Ascent: 4 km / 2.5 mi | 5-7 hours • Descent: 14 km / 8.7 mi | 5-6 hours • Habitat: Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit • Elevation: 4,695m / 15,400ft to 5,895m / 19,340ft (Uhuru Peak), then descending to 3,690m / 12,100ft Your summit day begins early, typically between midnight and 2am, under the cover of darkness. This is the most challenging day both mentally and physically. The trail ascends in a switchback pattern, navigating through scree and potentially snow, as you make your way towards Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. After a short rest at Gillman’s Point, where you can witness the magnificent sunrise, you’ll continue your final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, take a moment to celebrate your incredible achievement with photos and perhaps a few tears of joy. The descent begins soon after, retracing your steps back to Kibo Huts for a brief rest and lunch. The journey continues as you descend to Horombo Huts for your last night on the mountain. Meal Inclusion: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Horombo Huts

5. Day 5: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate, Return to Moshi

   • Distance: 18 km / 11.2 mi • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours • Habitat: Rainforest • Elevation: 3,690m / 12,100ft to 1,830m / 6,000ft On the final day of your trek, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a heartfelt farewell ceremony with your trekking team. It’s time to express your gratitude and provide tips to your guides, cooks, and porters before beginning the descent. The path takes you back through the rainforest, with a stop at Mandara Huts for lunch. The trail can be steep, muddy, and wet, so gaiters and trekking poles are again recommended. Upon reaching the Marangu Gate, you will receive your summit certificates, commemorating your successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where a well-deserved hot shower, a hearty dinner, and a chance to celebrate your remarkable accomplishment await. Meal Inclusion: Breakfast, Lunch

6. Day 7: Airport Drop: Off

   This day, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Safe travels, and we hope you have enjoyed your Kilimanjaro adventure! PRICE INCLUDES**** • Transfers to and from the airport • Mountain and Safari Special Camping fees • X6 nights Full board Accommodation on the Mountain • X2 night BB Accommodation at Kili wonders Hotel in Moshi • Mountain Camping facilities tents, table, chairs, mess tent • Mountain Rescue fees • Mountain and Safari Guides • Crew of Porters and Chef • Evacuation fees (Flying Doctor) • Local government taxes • Transfers to and from the mountain gate • clean water daily • Lunch boxes PRICE EXCLUDES **** • International, and Local airfare & Visa fees • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages • All items of a personal nature e.g. telephones • Sleeping bag • Personal trekking gears