Tanzania · Trekking

6-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek with Uhuru Peak Summit

6 Days Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek through tropical rainforest to Mandara Hut, with chances to spot blue monkeys
  • 02 See your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi as the trail opens into high moorland
  • 03 Use an extra acclimatization day to hike on Mawenzi Ridge
  • 04 Cross the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo
  • 05 Take on the demanding midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak in extreme alpine conditions

Embark on a thrilling 6-day Kilimanjaro adventure on the Marangu Route, beginning at Marangu Gate and hiking through lush tropical rainforest to Mandara Hut. Continue through forest and high moorland with your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi, then spend an extra acclimatization day on Mawenzi Ridge. Cross the lunar desert of the Saddle to Kibo Hut before making your challenging midnight push to Uhuru Peak. Descend through changing landscapes and tropical rainforest to Marangu Gate, collect your summit certificate, and return to Moshi.

This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek, and the wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut through Rainforest

  • Depart Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning your trek. The hiking trail starts by ascending through a beautiful tropical rainforest, where you may see blue monkeys near the upper edge of the forest line. The trail then widens to reveal beautiful hillsides before you reach Mandara Hut.
2
Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut across Moorland

  • Start the day by continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. Along the way, you may get your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks - two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
3
Day 03

Acclimatization Hike on Mawenzi Ridge

  • This extra day is set aside for acclimatization and can be spent hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi.
  • After spending some time exploring the area, head back to Horombo Hut.
4
Day 04

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut via the Saddle

  • Climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo.
  • Your camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for summit day.
5
Day 05

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak

  • Begin your push to the summit in the morning, around midnight. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek, and the wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme.
  • Ascend in the darkness for several hours, taking frequent but short breaks along the way.
6
Day 06

Descent to Marangu Gate and Return to Moshi

  • On your last day, trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest.
  • Once at the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will meet you here and drive you back to the hotel in Moshi for a hot shower.
Mandara Hut, Mawenzi Ridge, Uhuru Peak

Where this trip takes you

Mandara Hut, Mawenzi Ridge, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd 3 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private transport to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodations in Moshi
  • 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi
  • Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro Gate
  • Park entry fees
  • Camping fees
  • Team Kilimanjaro rescue fees
  • 18% VAT on tour fees and services
  • 4-season mountain tents
  • Double-layered sleeping mats
  • 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
  • Sufficient treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek
  • Hot water for washing
  • Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
  • Government taxes
  • Portable oxygen tanks and ox meter
  • Emergency first-aid kit

What's Not Included

  • Lunches, dinners, and drinks at your hotel before and after the climb
  • Travel insurance
  • A portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is available for an extra charge of $70 for the entire trek
  • Flights
  • Laundry (available at the hotel)
  • Personal items and toiletries
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (guide to tipping on the mountain)

What to bring

  • Clothing layers: Pack moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer (fleece jacket), and a waterproof outer layer (rain jacket) to adjust to varying temperatures.

  • Quality hiking boots: Invest in comfortable, sturdy, well-worn hiking boots with good ankle support for rocky terrain.

  • Sleeping gear: Bring a high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, and consider a sleeping pad for added comfort on rough surfaces.

  • Personal medications and first-aid kit: Carry personal medications, altitude sickness medication, and a small kit for minor injuries.

  • Hydration system: Use a hydration bladder or durable water bottles to ensure you stay well hydrated throughout the trek. Consider water purification tablets or filters as well.

  • Remember also to pack sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) and snacks for energy.

Know before you go

  • Accommodation: The Marangu Route offers hut accommodations, which provide more comfort than camping routes. However, they can be crowded, so booking in advance is advisable.

  • Altitude acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. The 6-day itinerary helps with this, but staying hydrated and ascending slowly is essential.

  • Physical fitness: Prepare physically for the trek. Engage in cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and hiking practice with a weighted backpack to build stamina.

  • Weather conditions: Be ready for varying weather conditions, including rain, cold, and wind. Dress in layers and invest in quality waterproof gear.

  • Day hiking gear: Bring the right equipment, such as sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, trekking poles, and a good daypack. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a hydration system.

  • Enjoy your trek, and ensure you prioritize safety and health.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kilimanjaro International Airport, Kilimanjaro Airport Road, Tanzania
Tour start
Kilimanjaro Airport Rd, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 6 days finish where they began, in Kilimanjaro Airport Rd.

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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,737.00 — $1,788.00
Double Sharing $1,737.00

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