5 Days Marangu Router Trek Kilimanjaro Summit

After breakfast and receiving a short briefing, we will drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, which takes approximately 1 hour. At the gate, we will register and start our climb. The first day's trekking will take us through the beautiful rainforest to the Mandara camping. Along the way, keep an eye out for impressive Eucalyptus trees, various bird species, and Colobus monkeys. If time allows, we can take a side trip to Maundi Crater, which offers stunning views.
• Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
• Distance: 8km/5mi
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: Half body(L&D)

Leaving the rainforest behind, we will follow an ascending path across the open moorlands towards the Horombo encampment. The views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo along the way are breathtaking. Look out for giant lobelias and groundsels that dot the landscape. As we gain altitude, you may start to feel the effects of the higher elevation.
• Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
• Distance: 12km/7.5mi
• Habitat: Heath land
• Meals: Full body (B, L&D)

Continuing our ascent, we will pass the last watering point and cross onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro, nestled between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The vegetation transitions into the upper heath land before eventually giving way to an otherworldly "moonscape." At Kibo Hut, we will have dinner, rest, and prepare for the summit trek
• Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
• Distance: 9km/5.5mi
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Full body (B, L&D)

In the early morning hours, around midnight to 2 am, we will start the climb to the summit. The way will be steep and predominantly composed of snow until we reach Gilman's Point, located on the crater rim. From there, we continue to ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible views. Don't forget to capture a photo at the summit to share with your loved ones. Afterward, we will descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo Hut before continuing to the Horombo encampment. The initial part of the descent will be in the dark, so headlamps or flashlights are necessary. It will be extremely cold until we begin descending further, so warm layers are essential. This is considered the most challenging part of the trek with numerous switchbacks. By maintaining a slow and steady pace ("pole pole" in Swahili) and maintaining a positive mindset, you will reach your goal!
• Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft • Descend to 3700m/12,200ft
• Dis

After breakfast, we will begin a steady descent through the moorland, passing by the Mandara Hut. We will continue descending through a lush forest path until we reach the National Park gate at Marangu. The lower elevations may be wet and muddy, so wearing gaiters and using trekking poles will be helpful. You can switch to wearing shorts and T-shirts as the weather gets warmer (keep rain gear and warmer clothing accessible). At Marangu gate, a vehicle will be waiting to drive us back to our hotel in Moshi, which should take approximately 1 hour.
• Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
• Distance: 20km/12.5mi
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: Breakfast only