5-Day Kilimanjaro Climb Through Marangu Route

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Marangu Gate - Mandara Hut

On the first day of the trek, hikers cover a distance of approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles), which typically takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete. The trail leads through a dense and vibrant rainforest, offering a cool and shaded hike surrounded by tall trees, moss, and a variety of plant life. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, trekkers must register with the park authorities before beginning the ascent. The hike continues steadily uphill through the lush forest until reaching Mandara Hut, the first overnight stop. After settling in, there is an optional short walk to Maundi Crater, which offers beautiful panoramic views, including glimpses into Kenya on a clear day. The night is spent resting at Mandara Hut in preparation for the next stage of the climb.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut

On the second day, trekkers cover about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), taking roughly 6 to 8 hours to complete. The trail begins with a steady ascent through the upper rainforest before transitioning into the heath and moorland zone. As the vegetation becomes more sparse, giant groundsels and other high-altitude plants become more common. Along the way, hikers enjoy sweeping views of Mawenzi and Kibo, two of Kilimanjaro’s main volcanic peaks. The changing landscape and rising altitude become more noticeable. The day ends at Horombo Hut, where trekkers spend the night and rest for the next leg of the journey.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut

On the third day, the trek covers approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) and takes about 6 to 7 hours. The trail leads into the alpine desert zone, where the landscape becomes dry, rocky, and more barren. Vegetation is minimal, and the air is noticeably thinner. Early in the hike, trekkers pass the “Last Water Point,” the final spot where water is naturally available. From there, the route continues across the wide, open saddle between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks a high-altitude plateau with stunning, yet harsh surroundings. The day ends at Kibo Hut, located at the base of the summit path. Here, climbers rest and prepare for the challenging midnight ascent to the summit.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak

Day four is the most demanding part of the trek, covering about 21 kilometers (13 miles) round trip and taking 10 to 14 hours. The journey begins just after midnight, as trekkers leave Kibo Hut and climb slowly in the cold, dark conditions toward Gilman’s Point (5,685m). From there, the trail continues along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) the highest point in Africa. Reaching the summit at sunrise offers breathtaking views and a great sense of achievement. After spending a short time at the top, climbers begin the long descent, first returning to Kibo Hut for a brief rest, then continuing down to Horombo Hut. The night is spent here to recover from the physically and mentally challenging summit day.

Main Destination:

Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate

On the final day of the trek, hikers descend approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles), which usually takes about 5 to 7 hours. The trail leads from the moorland zone back into the lush rainforest, with a noticeable increase in warmth and humidity as the altitude drops. The path can be slippery, especially in wet conditions, so careful footing is important. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, trekkers sign out of the park and receive their summit certificates, green for those who reached Gilman’s Point and gold for those who made it to Uhuru Peak. Afterward, a vehicle transfers climbers back to their hotel or lodge for a well-earned rest and celebration.

Main Destination:

Marangu Gate (Mt Kilimanjaro)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.