5-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek to Uhuru Peak at Sunrise

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Immerse yourself in the scenic diversity of Kilimanjaro's landscapes
• 02 Engage in cultural encounters with the local people along the Marangu Route
• 03 Witness the breathtaking sunrise from Gilman's Point
• 04 Celebrate reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa

Embark on a memorable journey through the rugged beauty of Kilimanjaro via the iconic Marangu Route. Over five exhilarating days, you'll traverse diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, as you ascend toward majestic Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Known as the most popular route up Kilimanjaro, the Marangu Route offers stunning scenery along the way and a rewarding summit experience.

Push your limits as you navigate steep slopes and snow, eventually reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and enjoying astounding 360-degree views.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Moshi to Marangu Gate and Trek to Mandara Hut

• Today marks the beginning of your 5-day Marangu Route trek. After a hearty breakfast, your expert guide will meet you at your lodge for a pre-trek briefing. From Moshi, you'll be driven to Marangu Gate (1,860 m), the starting point of the renowned Marangu Route, where your Kilimanjaro journey truly begins.
• Enjoy the natural beauty and unique flora and fauna of the lush rainforest.
• Your destination for the day is Mandara Hut (2,700 m), a comfortable resting spot surrounded by natural beauty.

2

Day 02

Trek Through Heather and Moorland to Horombo Hut

• Hike from Mandara Hut (2,700 m) through enchanting heather and moorland toward Horombo Hut (3,720 m), enjoying breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Embrace the magnificent vistas as you progress through this 5-day Marangu Route trek adventure, covering a distance of approximately 12 kilometers.
• By the end of the day, you'll arrive at Horombo Hut (3,720 m), a well-deserved resting point along the 5-day Marangu Route trek.

3

Day 03

Ascend Across the Saddle to Kibo Hut

• Embark on an exhilarating day of trekking as you ascend higher toward the alpine desert on the 5-day Marangu Route trek.
• Pass by the Last Water Point and traverse the mesmerizing Saddle, nestled between the iconic peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi, experiencing the unique terrain for which the 5-day Marangu Route trek is renowned.
• After a challenging but rewarding trek of around 6-7 hours, you'll reach Kibo Hut (4,703 m), where you'll rest and prepare for the final push toward Uhuru Peak.

4

Day 04

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Hut

• Begin your ascent toward Gilman's Point (5,685 m) in the early hours, under the shimmering stars, on the final summit day of the trek.
• Push your limits as you navigate steep slopes and snow, eventually reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and enjoying astounding 360-degree views. Here, you'll witness a breathtaking sunrise.
• Descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut, where you'll spend the night.

5

Day 05

Descend to Marangu Gate and Return to Moshi

• Descend to Marangu Gate, complete the formalities, and receive your summit certificate.
• After a triumphant descent and a heartfelt farewell to Kilimanjaro, you'll be transferred back to Moshi, forever cherishing the memories of your unforgettable 5-day Marangu Route trek.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver
• Professional guide and enough porters
• Emergency rescue fees
• Emergency oxygen

What's Not Included

• Accommodation
• Alcohol beverages
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcohol beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visa

What to bring

• Clothing: Inner, Middle and Outer Layers
  • T-shirts, preferably moisture-wicking (2 or more).
  • Long-sleeve shirts (2).
  • Long underwear pants (2).
  • Underwear (3 to 5).
  • Heavy fleece or down jacket.
  • Sweatshirt (optional).
  • Fleece pants (optional).
  • Trekking pants (1 or more).
  • Shorts (optional).
  • Waterproof jacket with hood.
  • Rain poncho.
  • Waterproof pants.
• Hats, Gloves and Gaiters
  • Wide-brimmed hat.
  • Wool hat (should cover ears).
  • Balaclava or ski mask.
  • Lightweight gloves.
  • Insulated wool or down mittens (worn outside lightweight gloves).
• Footwear: Shoes and Socks
  • Hiking boots with ankle support.
  • Camp shoes or tennis shoes.
  • Plastic bag to carry spare shoes.
  • Hiking socks (5).
  • Sock liners (optional).
• Sleeping bag.
• Note: We can provide sleeping bags on request free of charge.
  • Sleeping bag rated to -15°C / 0°F.
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional).
  • Sleeping bag stuff sack.
  • Sleeping pad (optional on Machame Route).
• Duffel Bags and Day Packs
  • Large duffel bag for carrying your gear.
  • Day pack for carrying what you need on the trail.
  • Waterproof cover for daypack.
  • Dry bags in several sizes.
  • Stuff sacks for dirty clothes/shoes.
• On the Trail
  • Sunscreen.
  • Lip balm with sunscreen.
  • Iodine water tablets.
  • Water bottles (2 or 3) or CamelBak.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Headlamp with extra batteries.
  • Plastic bags for garbage.
  • High-energy snacks.
  • Waterproof bags to protect electronics or paperwork.
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
  • Umbrella (optional - works great in light rain or to protect from the sun).
  • Toilet paper.
  • Medical tape (for preventing or treating blisters).
  • Trekking poles (optional).
• First Aid Kit and Toiletries
• Note: Our team brings along a basic first aid kit, but we recommend you also carry the following:
  • Advil or Ibuprofen.
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness).
  • Personal prescriptions.
  • Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers' diarrhea).
  • Diaper rash cream (can treat rashes or chafing).
  • Basic toiletries (soap, deodorant).
  • Wet wipes.
  • Panty liners and tampons.
  • Face lotion.
  • Hair brush, hair ties.
  • Hand warmers.
  • Ear plugs for sleeping.
• Paperwork and Money
  • Passport (needed at the entry gate for registration).
  • Money for tips at the end of the trek.
• Other Items
  • Portable solar charger.
  • Journal, pen, and paper.

Know before you go

• Physical fitness: The Marangu Route is considered one of the easier routes up Kilimanjaro, but it still requires a good level of physical fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for long days of hiking at high altitudes, with some steep sections.
• Altitude sickness: Altitude sickness is a real risk when trekking at high altitudes. Trekkers should be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate precautions, such as acclimatization days and staying hydrated.
• Packing list: It's essential to pack appropriately for the trek, including warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and other essentials. A detailed packing list provided by the tour operator will ensure that trekkers have everything they need for a comfortable journey.
• Acclimatization: The Marangu Route has a relatively fast ascent profile, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness. It's important to choose a tour operator who includes acclimatization days in the itinerary to help trekkers adjust to the altitude gradually.
• Permits and regulations: Trekkers need to obtain permits to hike Kilimanjaro, and these should be arranged in advance through a licensed tour operator. Additionally, there are regulations in place to protect the environment and ensure the safety of trekkers, such as the requirement to hike with a certified guide.
• Training: While the Marangu Route is less challenging than some of the other routes up Kilimanjaro, it's still important to be adequately prepared. Trekkers should undertake some training hikes to build up their endurance and get used to walking with a backpack.
• Weather: The weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot and humid at lower altitudes to below freezing at the summit. Trekkers should be prepared for a variety of conditions and pack accordingly.
• Travel insurance: It's essential to have travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, as well as medical evacuation in case of emergencies.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Moshi Kilimanjaro

Tour start

Moshi, Tanzania

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.