Embark on an unforgettable adventure up Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa, with this thrilling 6-day trek via the Marangu Route. Starting from Moshi, you’ll journey through lush rainforests, across alpine deserts, and all the way to the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Each day brings new challenges and awe-inspiring scenery, from the moss-draped forests at Mandara Hut to the vast, barren landscapes surrounding Kibo Hut. With a carefully planned itinerary for acclimatization, you’ll maximize your chances of reaching the summit safely and successfully. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is demanding, but the sense of achievement at standing on Africa’s highest point will make it all worth it. After summiting, enjoy the descent through the lush lower slopes, where you’ll collect your well-deserved summit certificate before heading back to Moshi to celebrate your accomplishment!
Your adventure begins with a 50-minute drive from Moshi to the Marangu Gate of Kilimanjaro National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass through the village of Marangu, located on the lower slopes of the mountain. After signing in at the park office and finalizing preparations, porters will load their packs with food, water, cooking gas, and your gear.
The trek begins with a steady climb on a cleared ridge trail through the lush rainforest. As you ascend, you’ll encounter mist-covered trees draped in moss, typical of this habitat. You’ll also pass by the unique wildlife of Kilimanjaro, with opportunities to spot a variety of animals.
Your first overnight stop is Mandara Hut, a group of wooden A-frame huts situated in a forest clearing at 2,700 meters. The camp offers solar-powered lighting, flush toilets, and piped water from springs above. Enjoy a warm meal and rest up for the days ahead.
After breakfast, you’ll begin the day’s trek through a stretch of forest, skirting the base of the Maundi Crater. A short detour to scramble up the rim of the crater provides an impressive view of the Kibo Crater, with its majestic glaciers shimmering in the morning sun.
The trail then transitions from rain forest to the open moorland, where you’ll encounter spectacular plants like the giant lobelia (up to 3 meters tall) and the giant groundsel (up to 5 meters tall). After about 6 hours, you’ll reach Horombo Hut at 3,720 meters, where you can enjoy a hot meal, wash up with hot water, and rest for the night.
Horombo Hut serves as a vital acclimatization point. Perched on a small plateau, this lively camp offers a chance to rest and adjust to the altitude. You’ll meet other hikers who are either ascending or descending, sharing stories and experiences.
To further aid your acclimatization, a hike towards Mawenzi Hut is highly recommended. This hike takes you past the Zebra Rocks and lasts around 3 hours up and 1.5 hours down. Remember to move slowly, stay hydrated, and give your body time to adjust. Meals will be provided at the hut, and you’ll enjoy a restful night in preparation for the challenging days ahead.
After breakfast, the ascent continues into the Alpine Desert. You’ll have the option of two routes to the Saddle (the area between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo). The upper route is the more familiar path, but the lower route is recommended as it is easier and less eroded.
At around 4,130 meters, you’ll pass the last watering point before filling up your water bottles, as there are no water sources at Kibo Hut. Once you reach Kibo Hut at 4,700 meters, settle in for a quick rest, prepare your equipment for the summit, and get a good night’s rest before the big day ahead.
The big day has arrived! You’ll wake up around 11:30 PM and start the summit attempt at midnight. The first section of the climb leads you to Hans Meyer Cave (5,150 meters), where you can take a short rest. The next phase involves a steep, rocky path to Gillman’s Point (5,681 meters), where the trail levels out and the summit becomes in sight. This section is extremely demanding and will require a slow and steady pace.
From Gillman’s Point, you’ll encounter snow-covered paths leading to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Reaching the summit is a monumental achievement! After a brief celebration and photos, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for a quick rest before continuing the 3-hour descent to Horombo Hut for the night.
After breakfast, the descent begins, taking about 6 hours to reach Marangu Gate. On the way down, you’ll pass Mandara Hut again. Once at the gate, climbers are required to sign out, and successful summiteers receive their certificates. Climbers who reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) receive gold certificates, while those who make it to Gillman’s Point (5,685 meters) receive green certificates.
After the descent, return to Moshi for a well-deserved hot shower, dinner, and celebration of your incredible achievement!
| 6 DAYS MOUNTAIN CLIMBING | |||||
| Standard ACCOMMODATIONS | 1PAX | 2-3PAX | 4-5PAX | 6+PAX | |
| JAN-MAY | 1950 | 1850 | 1800 | 1760 | |
| JUNE – OCT | 2150 | 2080 | 2000 | 1950 | |
| NOV – 15 DEC | 1950 | 1850 | 1800 | 1760 | |
| DEC – 2ND JAN | 2150 | 2080 | 2000 | 1950 | |
