5 Days Trekking Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

After breakfast and the briefing, we will drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, which takes approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival, we will register and begin the climb. The trail leads through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment. If time allows, a side trip to Maundi Crater offers stunning views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. Look out for impressive Eucalyptus trees, birdlife, and Colobus monkeys in the rainforest. We will have lunch and dinner at Mandara Hut.

Leaving the rainforest behind, we will ascend through the open moorlands to reach the Horombo encampment. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo. Keep an eye out for giant lobelias and groundsels. This hike typically takes around 5-6 hours. We will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Horombo Hut.

Continuing our ascent, we will pass the last watering point and trek onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The landscape transitions from upper heath land to an otherworldly "moonscape" as we climb higher. We will have dinner and rest at Kibo Hut in preparation for the summit climb. The hike usually takes around 5-6 hours. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Starting very early in the morning (around midnight to 2 am), we will begin the challenging climb to the summit. The path is steep and consists of scree or snow, leading to Gilman's Point on the crater rim. From there, we will continue to ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you can capture breathtaking views and take memorable photos. After spending some time at the summit, we will descend to Kibo Hut for lunch and rest before continuing to the Horombo encampment. The total hiking time can range from 6-8 hours for the ascent and 15km/9mi for the descent. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

After breakfast, we will steadily descend through the moorland to reach the Mandara Hut. From there, we will continue descending through the lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. This part of the trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. You can wear shorts and t-shirts at lower elevations, but keep rain gear and warmer clothing easily accessible. At Marangu gate, a vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, which takes approximately 1 hour. Breakfast will be provided.