Tanzania · Trekking

5-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek with Uhuru Peak Sunrise

5 Days Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Pass through lush tropical rainforest with chances to spot blue monkeys on the way to Mandara Hut
02 Catch your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi as the trail opens into high moorland
03 Cross the lunar landscape of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo en route to Kibo Hut
04 Summit Uhuru Peak after a challenging ночной ascent and witness sunrise from Gilman's Point
05 Collect your summit certificate at Marangu Gate after descending through the rainforest

Experience the iconic Kilimanjaro trek on this 5-day hiking adventure via the Marangu Route, starting at Marangu Gate and ascending through lush tropical rainforest to Mandara Hut. Continue through high moorland to Horombo Hut, with views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, then cross the lunar landscape of the Saddle to Kibo Hut. Push for Uhuru Peak in the early hours and witness a stunning sunrise from Gilman's Point before descending through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will collect your summit certificate and return to Moshi.

Push for Uhuru Peak in the early hours and witness a stunning sunrise from Gilman's Point before descending through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will collect your summit certificate and return to Moshi.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut through Tropical Rainforest

Depart Moshi for Marangu Gate, where you will complete the necessary formalities before beginning the trek. The hiking trail starts with an ascent through a beautiful tropical rainforest.
At the upper edge of the forest line, you may spot blue monkeys. The trail then widens to reveal beautiful hillsides before you arrive at Mandara Hut.

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut across High Moorland

Start the day by continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. Along the way, you may catch your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks - two of the three volcanic peaks that form the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 03

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut via the Saddle

Climb gradually before crossing the lunar desert of the "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo. Your camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the base of the Kibo crater wall.
Upon arrival, rest and enjoy an early dinner as you prepare for summit day.

Day 04

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak

In the morning, around midnight, begin your push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging part 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.
At Gilman's Point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with one of the most magnificent sunrises you are ever likely to see, rising over Mawenzi Peak.

Day 05

Descent to Marangu Gate and Return to Moshi

On the final day, trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest.
Once you reach the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, collect your summit certificates.
A vehicle will meet you here and drive you back to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower.

Where this trip takes you

Marangu Gate rainforest, Mandara Hut hillsides, Kibo Hut on the Saddle, Uhuru Peak sunrise

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd 3 cities · 5 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
Enough 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 the Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Government taxes
Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter
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 ($70 for the entire trek)
Flights
Laundry (available at the hotel)
Personal items and toiletries
Tips for guides, porters, and cook

What to bring

Appropriate Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, including thermal base layers, a waterproof jacket, and warm outer layers.
Good Quality Hiking Gear: Sturdy, well-fitted hiking boots, trekking poles, and a durable backpack for comfort and support.
Personal Items and First Aid: Sunscreen, lip balm, a reusable water bottle (or hydration system), and a basic first aid kit for minor emergencies.
Snacks and Hydration: High-energy snacks, such as nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit, to maintain energy levels, along with electrolyte tablets for hydration.
Be sure to adjust quantities based on your personal needs and preferences.

Know before you go

Accommodation: The Marangu Route is known for its hut system, which provides basic lodging along the way. Reservations may be required, especially during peak trekking seasons. Make sure to pack accordingly for shared facilities.
Altitude Considerations: The trek reaches high altitudes (Kilimanjaro's summit at 5,895 meters/19,341 feet). Acclimatizing correctly and listening to your body to avoid altitude sickness is crucial. Stay hydrated and ascend slowly.
Weather Preparedness: The weather can be unpredictable, ranging from warm at lower altitudes to cold and rainy at higher elevations. Bring layered clothing, waterproof gear, and appropriate trekking shoes to handle varying conditions.
Guided Treks Required: All trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide and porter. Choose a reputable trekking company that prioritizes safety, supports local communities, and operates responsibly on the mountain.

Logistics