Tanzania · Trekking

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

6 Days Round trip from Moshi Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Hike through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to heath, moorland, and alpine desert
02 Summit Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point at 5,895 meters, for a mesmerizing sunrise
03 Ascend to Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt
04 Experience the thrill of conquering Kilimanjaro, the "Roof of Africa"

Conquer the majestic Kilimanjaro on this challenging trek via the Marangu Route, led by experienced guides. Traverse diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to heath, moorland, and alpine desert, before ascending the lunar-like terrain to Kibo Hut for your summit attempt. Challenge yourself to reach Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point at 5,895 meters, and witness a breathtaking sunrise, weather permitting. Descend with the lasting reward of an unforgettable achievement.

Challenge yourself to reach Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point at 5,895 meters, and witness a breathtaking sunrise, weather permitting.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Moshi to Mandara Hut through Rainforest

Drive to Marangu Gate, Kilimanjaro National Park.
Register with the park authorities.
Meet your porters.
Begin the trek through lush rainforest.
Hike for 5-7 hours to Mandara Hut (2,700 m).

Overnight stay.

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut across Moorland

Hike through heath and moorland landscapes.
Enjoy potential views of Kilimanjaro's peak, weather permitting.
Trek for 6-8 hours to Horombo Hut (3,720 m).

Overnight stay.

Day 03

Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

Spend an acclimatization day at Horombo Hut (3,720 m).
Rest and adjust to the increasing altitude.
Take optional short walks for further acclimatization.
Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 04

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut via Alpine Desert

Ascend across a lunar-like landscape between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks.

Trek through increasingly barren and rocky terrain.

Hike for 6-8 hours to Kibo Hut (4,703 m), the base camp for your summit attempt.

Day 05

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Hut

Begin a pre-dawn summit attempt for Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Witness sunrise from the summit, weather permitting.
Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest.
Continue the descent to Horombo Hut.

Overnight stay.

Day 06

Descend to Marangu Gate and Return to Moshi

Descend through the moorland and rainforest zones.
Retrace your steps back to Marangu Gate, Kilimanjaro National Park.
Collect your summit certificate, if applicable.
Transfer back to Moshi.
Celebrate your summit achievement, if you wish.
Rest and enjoy the accomplishment.

Where this trip takes you

Mandara Hut rainforest, Horombo Hut moorland, Kibo Hut alpine desert, Uhuru Peak sunrise

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Moshi 3 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Professional, experienced mountain guides
Guides, porters, cook salaries, and park fees
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on a twin-sharing basis)
Sleeping mattress
Emergency oxygen cylinder
All meals while on the mountain
Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Clean, purified drinking water
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Camping or hut fees (part of park fees)
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate

What's Not Included

Tanzania visa
International and domestic flights
Hotel (available as an optional add-on)
Transfers (available as an optional add-on)
Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc. (available for rent)
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Liquors, beers, and bottled beverages
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)

What to bring

Essential Gear:
- Quality hiking boots: ensure they are broken in and suitable for long hikes.
- Comfortable backpack: large enough to carry your essentials but not too heavy.
- Sleeping bag: rated for low temperatures (0°F to -10°F).
- Clothing layers: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.
- Headlamp or flashlight: essential for early morning starts and night treks.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: UV protection is crucial due to the high altitude and sun exposure.
- Trekking poles: provide stability and reduce strain on knees during descents.
- Water bottles or hydration system: stay hydrated throughout the climb.
- First aid kit: including medications for altitude sickness, blisters, and other common ailments.
- Snacks: high-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits for quick boosts of energy.
Clothing:
- Base layers: moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials.
- Insulating layers: fleece or down jackets for warmth.
- Outer layers: waterproof and breathable jacket and pants to protect against rain and wind.
- Hiking pants: comfortable and durable for long treks.
- Warm hat and gloves: essential for cold temperatures at higher altitudes.
Personal Items:
- Passport and visa: ensure they are valid for the duration of your stay in Tanzania.
- Travel insurance: including coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation.
- Cash: small bills for tips and incidentals. USD is widely accepted.
- Toiletries: including biodegradable soap and wet wipes for hygiene.
Important Considerations:
- Physical fitness: train beforehand to improve endurance and stamina.
- Altitude acclimatization: understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and acclimatize properly.
- Guided tours: most climbers opt for guided tours, which provide experienced guides, porters, and logistical support.
- Weather conditions: Kilimanjaro's weather can be unpredictable; be prepared for rain, wind, and cold temperatures.
- Leave No Trace: respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles and packing out all waste.

Know before you go

Physical Fitness: Kilimanjaro is a strenuous trek, and being in good physical shape will greatly increase your chances of success. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking on varied terrain are recommended to prepare your body for the challenge.
Altitude Acclimatization: Altitude sickness is a real risk when climbing Kilimanjaro. The Marangu Route offers a more gradual ascent, which can aid acclimatization, but it is essential to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and follow your guide's advice.
Packing Essentials: Make sure you have all the necessary gear for the trek, including sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a headlamp, and plenty of snacks and water. Your tour operator will likely provide a detailed packing list.
Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, including medical evacuation in case of emergencies.
Permits and Guides: Climbing Kilimanjaro requires permits, and it is mandatory to be accompanied by a certified guide. Ensure that your tour operator takes care of all necessary permits and provides experienced guides.
Weather Conditions: Kilimanjaro's weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot at the base to freezing at the summit. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress accordingly in layers.
Environmental Considerations: Respect the natural environment by adhering to the "leave no trace" principles. Dispose of waste properly and follow your guide's instructions on environmental conservation.
Mental Preparedness: Climbing Kilimanjaro is not just a physical challenge but also a mental one. Stay positive, take each step at a time, and draw inspiration from the stunning landscapes and your fellow climbers.