6 Days
Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Climbing
Tour Overview
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Huts
After breakfast, you will be transferred from Arusha to Marangu Gate, the southeast entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park. Upon arrival, you will register and begin your ascent. The first section of the trail takes you through the lush rainforest, where you may spot various bird species and, with luck, black-and-white Colobus monkeys. Be prepared for wet, muddy conditions in this section.
Climbing Highlights
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Elevation Gain: 1,843m/6,046ft to 2,700m/8,858ft
- Habitat: Rainforest
- Accommodation: Mandara Huts
Day 2: Mandara Huts – Horombo Huts
Today, you will leave the rainforest behind as you trek through heath and moorland. The trail offers spectacular views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. It’s important to take it easy and stay hydrated, as this is the point where altitude sickness may begin to affect some hikers. You will arrive at Horombo Huts in the afternoon, where you can relax and take in the view of Kibo.
Climbing Highlights
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Elevation Gain: 2,700m/8,858ft to 3,720m/12,205ft
- Habitat: Heath/Moorland
- Accommodation: Horombo Huts
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Huts
This extra day is critical for acclimatization, improving your chances of summiting. You can choose to rest at Horombo Huts or take short hikes for acclimatization. One option is a trek to Mawenzi Hut for amazing views of both Kibo and Mawenzi. Alternatively, you can hike to the Zebra Rocks (around 310 meters of ascent).
Climbing Highlights
- Optional Hiking: 1-2 hours
- Overnight Altitude: ~3,720m/12,205ft
- Habitat: Heath/Moorland
- Accommodation: Horombo Huts
Day 4: Horombo Huts – Kibo Huts
Today’s trek takes you through a stark and rocky alpine desert. The landscape is desolate, with volcanic rock formations scattered along the path. The final stretch to Kibo Huts is steep and more challenging. Once at Kibo, you’ll need to rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt. Be sure to organize your gear and have everything ready for the cold and challenging summit push.
Climbing Highlights
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Elevation Gain: 3,720m/12,205ft to 4,703m/15,430ft
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Accommodation: Kibo Huts
Day 5: Kibo Huts – Gilman’s Point – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Huts
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is tough, with steep switchbacks and loose scree, making it the most difficult part of the ascent. Reaching Gilman’s Point at dawn allows for a breathtaking sunrise. From here, you will follow the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895m. After celebrating at the summit, you will begin your descent, first returning to Kibo Huts for a short rest and meal, and then continuing down to Horombo Huts.
Climbing Highlights
- Ascent Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Descent Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Elevation: 4,703m/15,430ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 3,720m/12,205ft
- Habitat: Arctic/Alpine Desert/Heath
- Accommodation: Horombo Huts
Day 6: Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Arusha
On your final day, you will descend through the heath and rainforest zones, enjoying your last glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s ecosystem. At Marangu Gate, you will sign out of the park and receive your summit certificates. You will then be driven back to Arusha, where you can relax and celebrate the end of your successful Kilimanjaro climb.
Climbing Highlights
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Elevation Loss: 3,720m/12,205ft to 1,843m/6,046ft
- Habitat: Heath/Rainforest
- Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
Customize Your Safari
focusing on Your specific interests
At Premier Africa Adventures, we craft climbing adventures as unique as you are. Share your vision, and we’ll handle every detail from choosing the ideal route, to planning your trekking activities that fit your unique interests and schedule. Let’s bring your dream of climbing Kilimanjaro to life.
