6-Day Kilimanjaro Hike via Marangu Route to Uhuru Peak

If you have arranged the optional airport transfers, we will pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your accommodation in Moshi. You should plan to arrive at least one day before the trek begins.

Today, we will spend time on a pre-trek briefing at your Moshi hotel. We will also review your equipment and arrange the rental of any gear that is required.

After breakfast and preparation, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, which takes around 60 minutes. After registration, begin the trek and walk through the rainforest to Mandara Hut.

A side trip to Maundi Crater is an excellent way to see the surroundings, including views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, look out for towering eucalyptus trees, birdlife, and Colobus monkeys.

Leave the lower slopes of the tropical rainforest behind and follow an ascending trail across the open moorlands to Horombo Hut. The views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are spectacular.

Look out for giant lobelias and groundsels along the way. You may also begin to feel the effects of the altitude.

Spend the day resting at Horombo Hut, with an optional hike toward Mawenzi Peak.

Continue climbing as you pass the last watering point and walk onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The vegetation begins as upper heathland, but gradually disappears into a stark moonscape.

Have dinner, rest, and prepare for your summit ascent.

Very early in the morning, between 12 am and 2 am, begin the ascent to the summit over steep and heavy scree or snow, heading to Gilman's Point on the crater rim. From there, continue climbing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

There are incredible views every step of the way. Take your photo at the summit to share with your loved ones. Afterward, descend and stop for lunch and a short rest at Kibo before continuing down to Horombo Hut.

After breakfast, make a steady descent through the moorland to Mandara Hut. Continue descending through the lush forest trail to the National Park gate at Marangu.

At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles will be helpful. Shorts and T-shirts will likely be enough to wear, but keep your rain gear and warmer clothing handy.

A vehicle will be waiting for you at the Marangu Gate to drive you back to your accommodation in Moshi, a journey of around 60 minutes.