Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut and Maundi Crater Hike
Meet your Tanzanian mountain guide at the agreed-upon location and leave Moshi early for the drive to Marangu Gate, the threshold of magnificent Kilimanjaro. It is just an hour's drive, but you will be captivated by the countryside.
Register at Marangu Gate before your adventure begins.
Cover the ridged, narrow trail as you wander through the rainforest. Its lush and misty allure, with trees adorned with moss, will captivate you. The canopy overhead is alive with birdsong and strange rustlings.
Come across tired hikers descending from the summit, and give them a high five for the effort.
Continue on the hike to Mandara Hut, which takes about three hours.
Stop to rest your legs and enjoy a relishing lunch at the hut.
Take the short but challenging walk to Maundi Crater. On a clear day, the views to the east over Taveta and to the northwest to Mawenzi Peak are stunning.
Hike back down to Marangu Gate, where a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Moshi.
Elevation Gain: 915 meters, 3,000 feet.
