7-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek to Uhuru Peak with Hut Stays

• Meet our dedicated driver upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), holding a sign with your name.

• Enjoy a seamless and comfortable transfer to your hotel in Arusha.

• Receive a delicious meal upon arrival at the hotel.

• Attend a pre-trekking briefing with our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide to learn about your upcoming Kilimanjaro expedition.

• After breakfast, depart Arusha for a 3.5-hour drive to the Marangu Gate.

• At the gate, complete the necessary registration formalities before starting the trek through the verdant rainforest.

• Hike steadily uphill to Mandara Hut, your first camp, with possible sightings of monkeys and other wildlife.

• Arrive at Mandara for a warm meal and an overnight stay in comfortable A-frame huts.

• In the evening, optionally take a short acclimatization hike to Maundi Crater for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Montane Forest

• Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Mandara Hut.

• Continue your trek through the lush rainforest, transitioning into the moorland zone.

• As you ascend, the vegetation gradually changes, giving way to a more rugged, open landscape.

• Enjoy stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks on the trek to Horombo Hut.

• Upon arrival at Horombo Hut, have a warm meal and time to relax and acclimatize to the higher altitude.

• In the evening, your guide will brief you on the next day's trek to ensure you are well-prepared.

Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft

Distance: 12km/7.5mi

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: Heathland

• Trek across the expansive lunar desert known as the "Saddle," a barren and rugged landscape between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

• Although the terrain is stark and desolate, the views of the towering peaks on either side are truly awe-inspiring.

• The hike takes approximately 6 hours, giving you ample time to take in the vastness of the landscape.

• Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you'll settle in for an early dinner and rest, conserving energy for the upcoming summit attempt.

• In the evening, your guide will provide a detailed briefing to prepare you for the final ascent, which begins just before midnight.

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft

Distance: 9km/5.5mi

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Around midnight, you will be awakened to begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak.

• The climb to Gillman's Point (5,685 m) is steep and strenuous, typically taking about six hours of steady climbing.

• This section will test your endurance, and your guide will support you along the way.

• From Gillman's Point, you will traverse the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

• If the weather cooperates, you will see a breathtaking sunrise over the continent.

• After celebrating at the summit, you will descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.

Elevation: 4700 m/15,500 ft to 5895 m/19,340 ft, down to 3700 m/12,200 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 mi up, 15 km/9 mi down

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up, 6-8 hours down

Habitat: Alpine Desert

• After breakfast, begin your descent through the moorland and lush rainforest zones, heading back to Marangu Gate.

• On the way down, enjoy the final views of the landscape and reflect on your accomplishment.

• Upon reaching the gate, receive your well-earned summit certificate.

• Drive back to Outpost Lodge in Arusha, where a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await.

• If you would like to extend your adventure, meet with our safari coordinator to explore options such as a wildlife safari or a trip to the beaches of Zanzibar.

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft

Distance: 20km/12.5mi

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Forest

• After breakfast, you'll be transferred back to the airport for your departure.

• If you wish to extend your adventure, you may add a day trip to your itinerary to explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in local culture.

• Alternatively, continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or exploring the island's rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone.

• If you're interested in adding a safari experience, please explore the available safari options for more information.