Tanzania · Trekking

5-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Trek via Marangu Route to Uhuru Peak

5 Days Round trip from Marangu Gate Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek through lush rainforest while spotting blue monkeys and vibrant birdlife
02 Witness the transition from rainforest to moorland with giant lobelias and groundsels
03 Cross the alpine desert via the iconic Last Water Point and the Saddle
04 Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, after a midnight summit ascent

Embark on a 5-day trek on Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, starting at Marangu Gate and climbing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Along the way, experience Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems as you pass through lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert landscapes. The journey includes a midnight summit ascent, panoramic views from Gilman's Point and Uhuru Peak, and a rewarding descent back to Marangu Gate. Finish your adventure with your summit certificate and a well-deserved celebration in Moshi or Arusha.

Begin the final ascent at midnight, climbing through the night.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut through the Rainforest

Morning:

Arrive at Marangu Gate, complete registration, and meet your guides and porters.
Begin your trek through lush rainforest.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a packed lunch along the trail.
Continue hiking, spotting blue monkeys and a variety of birds as you ascend.

Evening:

Arrive at Mandara Hut, settle in, rest, and explore the nearby Maundi Crater for panoramic views.
Have dinner and receive a briefing for the next day.

Elevation: 1,970m (6,460ft) to 2,720m (8,900ft)

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut across the Moorland

Morning:

Have breakfast at Mandara Hut.
Continue the ascent, leaving the rainforest and entering the moorland.

Afternoon:

Stop for lunch on the trail with views of giant lobelias and groundsels.
Continue hiking toward Horombo Hut with views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

Evening:

Arrive at Horombo Hut, settle in, and rest.
Have dinner and prepare for the next day's hike.

Elevation: 2,720m (8,900ft) to 3,720m (12,200ft)

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Habitat: Heath and Moorland

Day 03

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut through the Alpine Desert

Morning:

Have breakfast at Horombo Hut.
Ascend through the alpine desert, passing the Last Water Point.

Afternoon:

Enjoy lunch en route with views of the barren landscape.
Trek through the Saddle, a broad plain between Kibo and Mawenzi.

Evening:

Arrive at Kibo Hut, rest, and prepare for the midnight ascent.
Have an early dinner and try to get some sleep before the final ascent.

Elevation: 3,720m (12,200ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft)

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 04

Midnight Summit Ascent to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo

Night:

Begin the final ascent at midnight, climbing through the night.
Reach Gilman's Point (5,685m/18,650ft) by sunrise for stunning views.

Morning:

Continue the summit push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate at the summit, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Afternoon:

Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and lunch.
Continue descending to Horombo Hut.

Evening:

Arrive at Horombo Hut, then rest and recover after the long day.
Have dinner and get a good night's sleep.

Elevation: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) and down to 3,720m (12,200ft)

Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles) round trip

Hiking Time: 10-15 hours

Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

Day 05

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate Descent

Morning:

Have breakfast at Horombo Hut.
Begin the descent through the moorland.

Afternoon:

Stop for lunch on the trail.
Continue descending through the rainforest, enjoying the final leg of the trek.

Evening:

Arrive at Marangu Gate, complete park formalities, and receive your summit certificate.
Transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest and celebration.

Elevation: 3,720m (12,200ft) to 1,970m (6,460ft)

Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest

Where this trip takes you

Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Marangu Gate 4 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park Entry Fees: Grants you access to Kilimanjaro's natural beauty and wonders.
Camping Fees: Accommodations during the trek, immersing you in the stunning landscapes.
Transportation: Convenient transport to and from the Kilimanjaro gate, so you can focus on the climb.
Team Kilimanjaro Rescue Fees (18%): Ensures you have a safety net in any unforeseen circumstances.
VAT on Tour Fees: Transparent pricing with included value-added tax.
Professional Mountain Guides, Cooks, and Porters: A skilled and friendly team to assist you throughout the journey.
3 Hot Meals Daily: Energise you with delicious meals during the trek.
Treated and Filtered Drinking Water: Hydration is key, and you'll have access to clean water throughout.
Hot Water for Washing: Comfort and cleanliness even in the mountainous terrain.
Fair Wages for the Mountain Crew: Supporting the hardworking individuals making your adventure possible.
Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO) Government Taxes: Complying with regulations and contributing to sustainable tourism.
Oximeter: Monitoring oxygen levels for your safety at higher altitudes.
Emergency First-Aid Kit: Preparedness for any medical needs that may arise.
Visa - MasterCard (3.5%): Convenient payment options for a hassle-free experience.

What's Not Included

Airfare: Your journey to and from Kilimanjaro is an extra consideration to plan for.
Tips: While the crew is well taken care of, tips for porters, guides, cooks, and assistant guides are not included.
Flights: Your personal flights are separate from the transportation to the Kilimanjaro gate and are not part of the package.
Hotels in Kilimanjaro/Arusha: Accommodations outside the trek duration require separate arrangements and expenses.
Transfer from Arusha to Kilimanjaro: Transportation between these locations is an additional arrangement to be made.
Airport Transfer Round Trip: Pickup from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to the hotel in Kilimanjaro and return transfer from the hotel to JRO.
Hotel Upgrade Costs: Any preference for alternative hotels beyond the standard ones will have additional costs.
Non-essential Items: Personal choices like alcohol, beverages, cigarettes, snacks, etc., fall outside the package.

What to bring

Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking shirts and thermal underwear.
- Mid Layers: Insulating layers like fleece jackets and vests.
- Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants.
- Hiking Pants: Comfortable, durable hiking pants.
- Warm Hat and Gloves: Insulated hat and gloves for cold nights and summit day.
- Sun Hat: Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
- Socks: Moisture-wicking and thermal socks.
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Gaiters: To keep dirt and rocks out of your boots.
- Gaiters: To keep dirt and rocks out of your boots.
- Gaiters: To keep dirt and rocks out of your boots.
Personal Items
Backpack: Daypack (20-30 liters) for carrying daily essentials.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for temperatures down to at least -10°C (14°F).
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable trekking poles to aid with balance and reduce strain.
- Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder: At least 2-3 liters capacity.
- Water Purification Tablets: For additional water purification.
- Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen to protect against UV rays.
- Lip Balm: SPF-rated lip balm to prevent chapped lips.
- Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Personal Medications: Any prescription medications, plus a basic first aid kit.
Gear and Equipment
- Headlamp: Bring extra batteries for night hikes and camp use.
- Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's glare.
- Camera: To capture the stunning scenery, plus extra memory cards and batteries.
- Snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars.
- Multi-tool or Knife: Handy for various tasks.
- Dry Bags: To keep your gear and clothes dry.
Hygiene and Health
- Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrushes, and other personal hygiene items.
- Wet Wipes: For quick clean-ups when water is scarce.
- Hand Sanitizer: To maintain hygiene.
- Toilet Paper: A roll of toilet paper or biodegradable wipes.
Documentation and Money
- Passport: Valid passport with visa if required.
- Cash: Some cash for tips and small purchases (Tanzanian Shillings and small USD bills).
- Travel Insurance: Proof of travel insurance covering trekking activities.
- Emergency Contacts: A list of emergency contacts and important phone numbers.
Miscellaneous
- Notebook and Pen: For journaling your experience or noting important information.
- Ziplock Bags: To protect small items from moisture.
- Travel Pillow: For added comfort while sleeping.
- Ear Plugs: To block out noise at campsites.

Know before you go

Travel and Logistics
- Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa for Tanzania and apply in advance. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Vaccinations and Health: Get necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever, and consider additional ones like hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis. Carry a basic first aid kit and personal medications.
- Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking and medical evacuation.
- Arrival and Departure: Plan your flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport and arrange airport transfers to and from your hotel.
Preparation and Training
- Physical Fitness: Ensure you are in good physical condition. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training, and practice hiking with a loaded backpack.
- Acclimatization: The Marangu Route is shorter, so proper acclimatization is crucial. Consider spending an extra day at Horombo Hut to acclimatize.
- Gear Check: Double-check your gear to ensure you have all necessary items and that they are in good condition.
- On the Mountain
- Weather Conditions: Be prepared for varied weather conditions, including rain, wind, and cold temperatures, especially near the summit.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and eat regularly to maintain energy levels.
- Altitude Sickness: Be aware of symptoms like headache, nausea, and dizziness. Inform your guide if you feel unwell, and follow their advice.
Cultural and Environmental Considerations
- Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos of people.
- Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all waste and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
- Support the Local Economy by buying local products and services, fairly compensating porters and guides, and tipping according to local guidelines.
Safety and Communication
- Listen to Your Guides: Follow your guides' instructions at all times. They are experienced and knowledgeable about the route and conditions.
- Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and know the location of the nearest medical facilities.
- Communication Devices: Consider carrying a mobile phone or satellite phone for emergencies. Check with your guide service for communication options.
Documentation and Money
- Essential Documents: Carry copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and emergency contacts.
- Cash and Cards: Bring enough cash for tips, small purchases, and a credit card for larger expenses.
Enjoying Your Trek
- Pace Yourself: Walk at a steady pace to conserve energy and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Take Breaks: Regular breaks help with acclimatization and allow you to enjoy the scenery.
- Stay positive and flexible. Weather and trail conditions can change, and a good mindset will help you handle challenges.