Marangu Route offers a slow, steady climb to each of the daily camps, which has given it the reputation for being the easiest trekking route on Kilimanjaro. Don’t underestimate this trail however, as the approach to the final camp can be physically demanding with roughly 1000 meters of vertical gain on that day alone.
Marangu Route offers a slow, steady climb to each of the daily camps, which has given it the reputation for being the easiest trekking route on Kilimanjaro. Don’t underestimate this trail however, as the approach to the final camp can be physically demanding with roughly 1000 meters of vertical gain on that day alone.
Arrival Day
Moshi Town - Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted and driven to Keys Hotel in Moshi town for a briefing and overnight stay.
Moshi – Marangu Gate (1860m) – Mandara Hut (2700m)
Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast and a briefing, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 2…
Arrival Day
Moshi Town - Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted and driven to Keys Hotel in Moshi town for a briefing and overnight stay.
Moshi – Marangu Gate (1860m) – Mandara Hut (2700m)
Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast and a briefing, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 2 hours), register, and begin the climb. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment. A side trip to Maundi Crater offers a great view of the surroundings, including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, bird life, and Colobus monkeys.
Hike Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Mount Kilimanjaro - Leave the rainforest glades and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. The views of Mawenzi and the Kibo summit are stunning. Look for giant lobelias and groundsels. You may start to feel the effects of the altitude.
Hike Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Mount Kilimanjaro - Ascend past the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Vegetation starts with upper heathland but then disappears into a “moonscape”. Have dinner, rest, and prepare for the summit climb.
Hike Kibo Hut to Summit, and down to Horombo Hut
Mount Kilimanjaro - Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), start the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. Continue ascending to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The views are incredible at every turn. Take a picture at the summit to show your friends and family. Descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing to the Horombo encampment. The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you’ll need all your warm layers. This is the most challenging part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly “pole pole” and maintaining a positive attitude will get you there!
Horombo Hut (3720m) - Marangu Gate (1860m) – Marangu
Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, a steady descent takes you down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through 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 sufficient (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). A vehicle will meet you at Marangu gate to drive you back to Keys Hotel. Don’t forget to tip your guides and porters. It’s time for celebration!
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Tips
- Tips
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
