Overview
The Marangu route, approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast, is renowned as the most accessible trekking path. As the oldest and most established route, it appeals to those who prefer not to camp, offering dormitory-style huts for overnight accommodation. This route provides a unique experience, allowing climbers to use the same path for both ascent and descent. An additional day for acclimatization can be incorporated if desired.
Highlights
Day 1: Arrival – Sal Salinero Hotel
Day 2: Trek from Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Day 3: Trek from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Day 4: Trek from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Day 5: Summit day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Horombo Hut
Day 6: Descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Sal Salinero Hotel
Day 7: Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver and transferred to Moshi. Your accommodation for the night will be at the Sal Salinero Hotel, where dinner and lodging are provided.
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,843m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Distance: 8km
Estimated trekking time: 4-5 hours
After breakfast, you’ll be transported to Marangu gate for registration and introduction to your support team. The ascent begins on a clear ridge trail through the tropical rainforest. This biodiverse zone is home to endemic flora and fauna, including blue monkeys near the forest’s upper edge. The trek continues across picturesque hillsides until reaching Mandara Hut. You may opt for a short walk to Maundi Crater for potential views of Mawenzi Peak or relax at the camp. Dinner and overnight at Mandara Hut.
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: 12km
Estimated trekking time: 6-8 hours
The day’s trek transitions from forest to high moorland, characterized by heather and Lobelia Deckenii. Weather permitting, the volcanic peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi become visible. After a full day’s climb, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, a village-like complex accommodating up to 120 people – the only hut on Kilimanjaro with beds. Dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Distance: 10km
Estimated trekking time: 6-8 hours
This gradual ascent to Kibo Hut serves as a crucial acclimatization day. En route, you’ll have the opportunity to take an acclimatization walk to Zebra Rocks and the base of Mawenzi peak. The trek continues across the lunar desert to Kibo Camp, situated at the base of Kibo Crater Wall. An early dinner precedes overnight rest at Kibo Hut in preparation for the summit attempt.
Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,703m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: 6km ascent, 16km descent
Estimated trekking time: 6-8 hours ascent, 4-5 hours descent
The summit push begins around midnight with tea and light refreshments. The arduous ascent to Uhuru Peak challenges climbers with cold temperatures and strong winds until reaching Gilman’s Point. As dawn breaks, the final stretch to Uhuru Peak via Stella Point rewards climbers with breathtaking sunrise views. After a brief time at the summit, the descent to Horombo Hut begins, where dinner and a well-earned rest await.
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,848m)
Distance: 20km
Estimated trekking time: 5-7 hours
The final day on the mountain involves a long descent through the tropical rainforest. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate from park headquarters. Our driver will meet you for the transfer back to Sal Salinero Hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a celebratory dinner and comfortable accommodation.
Day 7: Departure
After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.
