Tanzania · Trekking

5-Day Kilimanjaro Trek to Uhuru Peak via the Marangu Route

5 Days Round trip from Marangu Gate Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Ascend gradually along well-maintained trails ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers
02 Trek through diverse ecological zones, including heath, moorland, and alpine desert
03 Witness breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the vast saddle leading to Kibo
04 Summit Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, the highest point in Africa
05 Receive your Kilimanjaro climbing certificate at Marangu Gate upon completion

Embark on a 5-day Kilimanjaro adventure via the Marangu Route, the mountain's most accessible and established trail. Known for its gradual ascent and hut accommodations, this route takes you through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, culminating at the majestic Uhuru Peak. Experience the only route with dormitory-style huts, making it a popular choice for first-time trekkers. Despite its reputation as the easiest route, proper preparation is essential for summit success.

Wake around midnight and begin the final ascent to the summit under starlit skies.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English, French, German, Italian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut Through Rainforest

Begin the trek at Marangu Gate (1,860 meters) after registration and a briefing from your guides.
Ascend gradually through the lush rainforest while observing rich flora and potential sightings of blue monkeys and colobus monkeys.
Reach Mandara Hut (2,700 meters) after 4-5 hours of trekking.
Explore the nearby Maundi Crater if time and energy permit.

Dine and rest overnight at Mandara Hut in shared dormitory-style accommodations.

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut Across Moorland

Depart Mandara Hut and trek through heath and moorland zones, leaving the rainforest behind.
Pass through scenic hillsides with giant lobelias and stunning views of Mawenzi Peak.
Reach Horombo Hut (3,720 meters) after approximately 6-8 hours of trekking.
Hydrate and rest to prepare for the altitude change.

Enjoy dinner and sleep at Horombo Hut.

Day 03

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut via the Alpine Desert

Begin the gradual ascent through alpine desert terrain, passing the Last Water Point and reaching the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo.
Marvel at the stark beauty of the landscape while trekking toward Kibo Hut (4,703 meters).
Arrive at Kibo Hut after 5-7 hours of trekking.
Eat an early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit attempt.

Sleep for a few hours before the early morning start.

Day 04

Midnight Summit to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo

Wake around midnight and begin the final ascent to the summit under starlit skies.
Trek slowly and steadily through steep scree slopes, pausing at Gilman's Point (5,681 meters) on the crater rim.
Continue to Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate briefly at the summit before descending back to Kibo Hut for rest and a meal.
Proceed down to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved overnight stay.

Day 05

Final Descent to Marangu Gate and Return to Moshi

Begin the final descent through moorland and rainforest zones.
Arrive at Mandara Hut for a short rest and refreshments.
Continue to Marangu Gate, where your successful trek concludes.
Collect your summit certificates and meet your driver for transfer back to Moshi.
Celebrate your achievement with your team and reflect on the experience of a lifetime.

Where this trip takes you

Marangu Gate, Mandara Hut, Mawenzi Peak, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Marangu Gate 3 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

National park permits
Camping/hut fees
Rescue services
All meals while in the mountains
Guides' and porters' wages
Round-trip airport transfers between Arusha and JRO
Round-trip transfers between Arusha and the mountain gates
Hotel stays in Arusha for pre- and post-trek (2 nights in total) on a bed and breakfast basis
Sleeping mats, 2-inch foam
Private portable toilet
Wash basins with hot water each morning and evening

What's Not Included

Flights: International flights to and from Tanzania are generally not included.
Visas: Tanzanian visas are typically the climber's responsibility.
Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and other support staff are rarely included.
Personal gear: Climbers need to bring their own gear, such as appropriate clothing, boots, and a sleeping bag.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical and evacuation coverage, is usually not included.
Pre/post-climb accommodation and meals: Unless specifically stated, accommodation and meals in Moshi before and after the trek are not included.
Personal spending money: Expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and snacks are not included.

What to bring

Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants: essential for protection against rain and strong winds at higher altitudes.
Insulated jacket and pants: provide warmth in cold temperatures, especially during summit night.
Hiking boots: waterproof and broken in to prevent blisters.
Hiking socks: wool or synthetic socks to keep your feet warm and dry.
Base layers (top and bottom): wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable.
Fleece jacket: provides additional insulation.
Warm hat and gloves: essential for cold temperatures, especially at night and during summit attempts.
Hiking pants: durable and comfortable for hiking.

Logistics