Marangu Gate Hike to Mandara Hut and Maundi Crater
You will be picked up in the morning from your hotel in Moshi and driven to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu Gate (1860 m). The drive takes approximately 1 hour. Once the necessary gate registration has been completed, your trek begins as you hike through the dense Kilimanjaro rainforest.
Alongside the impressive vegetation, you may catch a glimpse of black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and various bird species. Your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will share information about Kilimanjaro and explain the different species of plants and animals you see. You may also meet mountain climbers descending from the summit, and perhaps hear about their experiences.
After a 3-4 hour hike, you will reach Mandara Hut (2700 m), where you will have a well-earned rest and lunch. Your guide will then take you on a short hike of about 15 minutes to Maundi Crater, where you can enjoy wonderful views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Northern Tanzania, and Kenya.
After enjoying the views, you will return to Marangu Gate, a walk of about 2-3 hours, where your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel. On the return journey, you can enjoy the sunset and the day's memories.
Altitude gain: 1860 m to 2700 m
Distance (one way): 8 km
Hiking time: 3-4 hours up / 2-3 hours down (total 5-7 hours)
Habitat: Mountain Forest
