6-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route: Comfort Trek with Sleeping Huts

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft

1. 5h
   Habitat: Rain Forest
   
   We depart Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. At the upper edge of the forest line, we have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft

1. 4h
   We start the day continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. We may get our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks - two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft

1. 5h · Admission ticket included
   Habitat: Heath
   
   This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut.

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft

1. 3h · Admission ticket included
   We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft

1. 8h
   Habitat: Arctic
   
   Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
   Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft
   Distance: 16 km/10 miles
   Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
   Habitat: Heath
   
   Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
   
   After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft

1. Kilimanjaro National Park
   6h
   Habitat: Rain Forest
   
   On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

Pickup details

Pickup is provided from hotels/lodges in Moshi town.
Pickup time is usually between 07:00 – 08:00 AM, depending on hotel location and traffic conditions.
Climbers staying outside Moshi town (e.g. Arusha or remote lodges) may be charged an additional transfer fee or advised to arrive in Moshi one day before the climb.
Please be ready in the hotel lobby at least 10 minutes before pickup time.
Our team will confirm the exact pickup time one day before departure.
After pickup, climbers will be transferred to Marangu Gate for registration and start of the trek.

• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels