6-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek with Uhuru Peak Summit

Before beginning the trek, the hikers and driver head to Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities. The trail climbs through tropical rainforest near the upper edge of the forest line, where playful blue monkeys can sometimes be seen. The track then widens to reveal beautiful hillsides before reaching Mandara Hut campsite.

Rising (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Stretch: 8 km
Climate: Rain Forest
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Shelter: Mandara Hut

On the second day of the Marangu hiking trail, the trek begins with a steep ascent through the forest before opening into high moorland. If the sky is clear and free of clouds, there may be your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi, two of the three volcanic peaks that form the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Rising (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Stretch: 12 km
Hiking time: 6-8 hours
Climate habitat: Heath / Moorland

This extra day is used for acclimatization. Hike toward, or all the way to, Mawenzi Hut and then return to Horombo Hut. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi.

Rising (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,160 ft to 12,205 ft
Stretch: 10 km
Hiking time: 3-5 hours
Climatic Habitat: Heath

On day four, hikers climb gradually and then cross the lunar desert of the "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach the campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once at camp, hikers rest, enjoy an early dinner, and prepare for the summit hike the following day.

Rising (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Stretch: 10 km
Hiking time: 6-8 hours
Climatic habitat: Alpine Desert

The hikers and team wake in the middle of the night and begin the final push to reach the Roof of Africa. The trail to Gilman's Point is very steep, and the ascent is slow and steady. From Gilman's, the route traverses along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. The hikers and team stay at the summit for a short time to take photos and enjoy the views before descending back to Horombo Hut.

Rising (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
Stretch: 22 km
Hiking time: 10-13 hours
Climatic habitat: Arctic

A long trek is in store for today; however, it is mostly downhill. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, hikers collect their certificate as proof of their achievement and then take the car transfer back to the hotel in Moshi.

Descend (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Stretch: 20 km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours
Climatic Habitat: Rain Forest