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

• Connect with your tour guide in Moshi and transfer to Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning the trek. The hiking trail starts by ascending through a beautiful tropical rainforest.
• At the upper edge of the forest line, you may have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to reveal beautiful hillsides before reaching Mandara Hut.

Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

• Start the trek through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. Along the way, you may get your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi, two of the three volcanic peaks that form the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Heath

• This extra day is meant for acclimatization and can be spent on a day hike to Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi.
• After spending some time exploring the area, head back to Horombo Hut.

Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Heath

• Climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo. Your camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall.
• Once here, get some rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for summit day.

Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Very early in the morning, around midnight, begin the hike to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek, and the wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme.
• Ascend in the darkness for several hours, taking frequent but short breaks. At Gilman's Point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with one of the most magnificent sunrises you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak.
• Finally, arrive at Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
• After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and celebrating your accomplishment, descend to Horombo Hut.
• Later in the evening, enjoy your last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 19 km
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
Habitat: Arctic

• On the last day, enjoy a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest.
• Once at the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will meet you here and drive you back to the hotel in Moshi.

Trip ends.

Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 21 km/12 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest