Tanzania: 6-Day Kilimanjaro Trekking via Marangu Route
ID: GYG887770-1394777
Category:
Country: Tanzania
Duration:
6 days
Description
Embark on a 6-day trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the rainforest and winding trails as you trek to the roof of Africa (Kilimanjaro Peak)
DAY 1: MARANGU GATE – MANDARA HUTS
Depart from Moshi and drive through the village of Marangu to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Wait for your permits to be issued while observing the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for their journey ahead. Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and winding trails as your guide introduces you to the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.
DAY 2: MANDARA HUTS – HOROMBO HUTS
Leave the rainforest behind and continue on an ascending path through heathland, where you might spot giant lobelias and groundsels. As you move into the open moorlands, small shrubs become the predominant vegetation. Stop for lunch along the way, with amazing views of Mawenzi. Reach Horombo Huts in the late afternoon, with a spectacular view of Kibo Summit in the distance. The temperature begins to drop as you settle in for the night.
DAY 3: HOROMBO HUTS
Spend a full day and a second night at Horombo Hut. This day allows for further acclimatization and rest. You can either relax at the hut or take a short hike up to Mawenzi Base Camp before returning to Horombo. This extra day is crucial for acclimatization and will help you better understand the mountain's weather and altitude. After resting, continue your journey to Kibo Hut on Day 4, where you'll prepare for your midnight summit attempt.
DAY 4: HOROMBO HUTS – KIBO HUTS
Continue through dwindling heathland that transitions into a moonscape as you approach the sweeping saddle connecting Mawenzi and Kibo. Stop for lunch along the way, and later cross this large saddle, with Kibo Summit looming ahead, marking the starting point for your summit climb in just a few hours.
DAY 5: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT – HOROMBO HUTS
Begin your summit attempt with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. Ascend in switchbacks through heavy scree and possibly snow, heading towards Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. Here, you will be rewarded with a magnificent sunrise during a short rest. Faster hikers may reach the summit in time to enjoy the sunrise at Uhuru Peak. The final hour to Uhuru Peak is likely to involve walking through snow, but the reward is worth it: the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa.
DAY 6: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – MOSHI
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation with your crew, begin your descent, stopping at Mandara Huts for lunch. Be sure to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, as you will be leaving them here. Continue down to the Marangu Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. The weather becomes much warmer as you descend, and the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. Once at the gate, a vehicle will meet you for the drive back to your hotel in Moshi (about 45 minutes).
Highlights
- Discover the Marangu Route, the only route with permanent sleep huts
- Trek through the rainforest, moorland, and semi-desert landscapes
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the rainforest and winding trails
- Spot giant lobelias and groundsels as you trek through the heathland
- Reach the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Acclimatization days are crucial for a successful summit.
The descent shares the same path as the ascent, expect high traffic.
Prepare for cold temperatures and possible snow at the summit.
Stay hydrated and monitor for signs of altitude sickness.
Physical fitness is required, with preparation recommended months in advance.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.