Trekking Kilimanjaro: 6 Days via the Marangu Route

Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Itinerary:The adventure begins at Marangu Gate, where you complete registration formalities before starting your trek through lush rainforest. The trail ascends gradually, surrounded by towering trees, vibrant birdlife, and the chance to spot colobus monkeys. Arrive at Mandara Hut in the afternoon, where you can relax or take a short walk to the Maundi Crater for stunning views of Kenya and northern Tanzania.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner provided at camp.

OVERNIGHT:Mandara Hut.

Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Distance:12 km (7.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Itinerary:Leave the forest behind as the trail ascends into the open moorland, offering views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks and diverse alpine plants such as giant lobelias and groundsels. Break for lunch along the way before continuing to Horombo Hut, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

Meals: Lunch and dinner provided at camp.

OVERNIGHT:Horombo hut.

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

Distance: 5 km (3 miles) round trip

Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Itinerary:This day is dedicated to acclimatization to increase your chances of success on the summit. Take a short hike to Zebra Rocks, a natural formation with striking black-and-white streaks, or relax at Horombo Hut while enjoying the stunning scenery.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

OVERNIGHT:Kibo hut.

Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Itinerary:The trail becomes steeper and more challenging as you traverse the Saddle, a barren but striking alpine desert located between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon to rest and prepare for the summit push.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

OVERNIGHT:Kibo Hut.

Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut (4,703m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Distance: 16 km (10 miles) round trip

Hiking Time: 12–16 hours

Habitat: Arctic to moorland

Itinerary:Begin your summit attempt just after midnight, trekking in the dark to reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) by sunrise. From there, push onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

OVERNIGHT:Horombo Hut.

Day 5: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m)

Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Itinerary:Enjoy a gradual descent through the moorland and rainforest zones back to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch provided.

OVERNIGHT:No Accommodation.