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Tanzania · Trekking
The journey
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro on the popular Marangu Route, known for being less expensive and easier than many other trekking routes on the mountain. Over five days, trek through tropical rain forest, moorland, and the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, with overnight stays at Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo huts. Take in great views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, reach Gillman's Point on the crater rim, and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Successful climbers receive summit certificates at the end of the trek.
A slow but steady pace will take you to the rim of the main crater, Gillman's Point at 5,685 m.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
After breakfast, make the short journey of about 45 minutes from your hotel to Marangu Kilimanjaro Park Gate for the necessary formalities.
The climb starts through a fascinating tropical rain forest.
Reach the first hut at Mandara for dinner and an overnight stay.
Alternatively, simply rest and relax in the beautiful forest around the camp.
(Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut (2,700 m): 5-6 hours walking.)
Today, the first part of the walk is a steep ascent through the forest, but the path soon opens out into moorland and, in clear weather, offers great views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
Arrive at Horombo Hut in the mid-afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery around the camp.
(Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720 m): 4-6 hours walking.)
Gradually climb towards the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo.
Walk for 6-7 hours at a slow pace until you reach Kibo Hut (4,700 m), where you will spend the night in a comfortable hut.
There is no running water at Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent relaxing in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night.
(Horrombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700 m.); 4-6 hours walking)
Wake up before midnight under the cover of darkness.
Begin a steep climb over loose volcanic scree. A slow but steady pace will take you to the rim of the main crater, Gillman's Point at 5,685 m.
Rest there for a few minutes to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling good can continue slowly to make the three-hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m, the highest point in Africa.
Descend to Kibo Hut and stop for some refreshment.
Continue descending to reach Horombo Hut.
(Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut (3,720 m): 13-15 hours walking).
Today, descend past Mandara Hut to Marangu National Park, where successful climbers will receive their summit certificates.
Transfer to Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort for dinner and an overnight stay.
(Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate then Moshi/Keys Hotel: 6-7 hours walking)
Where this trip takes you
Mandara Hut, the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, Uhuru Peak
The route
The fine print
2 nights' hotel accommodation in Moshi is included.
Quality, waterproof, four-season private mountain sleeping tents.
Professional, experienced mountain guides.
All park fees.
Rescue fees.
All meals while on the mountain.
Arrival and departure transfers.
Guides', porters', and cook salaries, as well as park fees.
Quality mess tents with tables and chairs.
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food.
Clean, purified drinking water.
Crisis management and safety procedures.
Fair and ethical treatment of porters.
Sleeping mattress.
Emergency evacuation by Flying Doctor Society of Africa.
Normally, April and May are the months with long rains and should be avoided.
November brings short rains, but it does not often rain all day.
The best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is January to February and September.
Logistics
Your 5 days finish where they began, in Marangu.
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