Kenya, Tanzania · Trekking

6-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Group Climb to Uhuru Peak

6 Days Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience Kilimanjaro's changing landscapes, from lush rainforest to alpine desert
02 Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa
03 Enjoy a group climb with camaraderie and support from fellow adventurers
04 Stay in rustic mountain huts along the Marangu Route
05 Take in views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya from Maundi Crater

Join a group expedition to summit Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the popular Marangu Route. Over six days, travel through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest and open moorland to alpine desert, while sharing the challenge with fellow adventurers. Led by experienced mountain guides, this climb combines camaraderie, acclimatization time at Horombo Hut, and the reward of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Continue ascending to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Shared

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

Hotel to Mandara Hut through the Rainforest

After breakfast and a briefing, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1 hour), register, and commence the climb. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment. A side trip to Maundi Crater is a good way to see the surroundings, including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. Look for towering eucalyptus trees, birdlife, and Colobus monkeys in the rainforest.

Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut across the Moorlands

Leave the glades of the rainforest and follow an ascending path across the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. The views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and groundsels along the way. You may begin to feel the effects of the altitude.

Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 03

Acclimatization Rest Day at Horombo Hut

Rest day at Horombo Hut with an optional hike by Mawenzi Peak.

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 0km/0mi
Hiking Time: 0 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 04

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut across the Saddle

Ascending, pass the last watering point and walk onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins in the upper heathland but then disappears into a "moonscape." Have dinner, rest, and prepare for the summit climb.

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Hut

Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman's Point, located on the crater rim. Continue ascending to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here, descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing to the Horombo encampment.

Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and Moshi

After breakfast, a steady descent takes you through the moorland to Mandara Hut. Then descend along a lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and T-shirts will probably be plenty to wear, but keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy.
A vehicle will be waiting for you at Marangu Gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour).

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast

Where this trip takes you

Uhuru Peak, Maundi Crater, the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro 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
Sleeping mattress
Emergency oxygen cylinder
All meals while on the mountain
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

Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
- Insulating layers (fleece jacket, down jacket)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking pants and shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Thermal underwear (for summit night)
- Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter or scarf
- Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Gaiters (to keep snow and debris out of boots)
Footwear:
- Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Camp shoes or sandals for resting at campsites
Gear:
- Backpack (40-60 litres) for carrying personal items and water
- Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures (rated to at least -10°C/14°F)
- Sleeping pad or mat for insulation and comfort
- Trekking poles for stability and reducing strain on knees
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection and glacier glasses for summit day
- Sun hat with a wide brim for sun protection
- Buff or bandana for sun protection and dust
- Personal first aid kit with essentials like blister treatments, pain relievers, and any prescription medications
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, hand sanitiser, etc.)
- Quick-dry towel
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Climbing Equipment (if not provided by the tour operator):
  - Warm and waterproof gloves for summit night
  - Crampons (if needed for icy conditions)
  - Ice axe (if required for steep sections)
  - Helmet (for protection against falling rocks)
Miscellaneous:
- Water bottles or a hydration system with a capacity of at least 3 litres
- Snacks and energy bars for quick energy boosts
- Personal identification and travel documents (passport, insurance information)
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
- Notebook and pen for journaling or taking notes
- Trash bags for carrying out waste and keeping gear dry
Optional Extras:
- Portable solar charger or power bank for electronic devices
- Lightweight camp chair or seat pad for comfort during breaks
- Book or e-reader for downtime at campsites

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 exercise, 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: Ensure 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 that you purchase travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes and medical evacuation in case of emergencies.
Permits and Guides: Climbing Kilimanjaro requires permits, and you must be accompanied by a certified guide. Ensure your tour operator handles 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.