Marangu Mountain Trail

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Check-in begins at 2:00 pm. In the evening, join a briefing with the climb representatives who will provide essential information about your upcoming ascent and ensure you are fully prepared. For details on what to bring, please refer to the ‘What do I need to bring’ section. Overnight in Moshi.

We begin the day with an early breakfast before meeting your guide and mountain support team at the hotel for a brief orientation. Afterwards, we transfer by vehicle to Kilimanjaro National Park’s eastern entrance at Marangu Gate, situated at 1,860 metres. Here, we complete the necessary formalities, including obtaining climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service. The trek then commences through lush rainforest, where occasional tropical showers are common—so it’s advisable to bring spare clothing and a raincoat. We hike approximately 11 kilometres over five to seven hours, ascending to Mandara Hut at 2,700 metres. At the camp, our support crew will set up the huts and prepare lunch. Along the Marangu route, you will stay overnight in these huts, which offer a comfortable alternative to tents.

After breakfast, we set off from Mandara Hut (2,700 m) for a moderate trek to Horombo Hut (3,720 m), the second high-altitude camp on the route. Along the way, you will pass through alpine moorland and enjoy views of Kilimanjaro’s two volcanic peaks – Kibo and Mawenzi – upon arrival. After lunch, we undertake an acclimatisation hike towards Kibo Hut, gaining 200 metres in altitude to 3,920 m before returning to Horombo Hut for dinner. The trek covers approximately 10 km and takes around 5 to 6 hours, with the acclimatisation walk adding another 1 to 2 hours over 2.5 km. Alternatively, you may choose to spend an extra night here for further acclimatisation, which includes a morning hike to Kibo Camp and a restful afternoon with spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes. This option extends the itinerary by one day. Overnight accommodation is in the Horombo Huts.

After breakfast, we will set off from Horombo Hut (3,720 m) and trek to Kibo Hut (4,700 m). The hike is manageable, but maintaining a steady pace is important to conserve energy for the summit attempt ahead. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, lunch will be served, followed by ample time to rest. We recommend you avoid any strenuous activity and drink plenty of water to aid acclimatisation. The day’s trek covers approximately 10 kilometres and takes between 4 and 8 hours, depending on pace and conditions. Overnight accommodation will be at Kibo Hut.

We set off just after midnight from Kibo Hut (4,700 m) to begin the final ascent to Kilimanjaro’s summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). While the climb is physically moderate, the high altitude demands careful pacing and endurance. Each pair of climbers is accompanied by a dedicated guide who monitors your condition throughout. After reaching Uhuru Peak, you may choose to visit the nearby glacier before descending back to Kibo Camp for a short rest. We then continue the descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m) where you will spend the night. The day covers approximately 16 kilometres and typically takes between 9 and 12 hours.

After a hearty breakfast, we begin the final descent from Horombo Hut (3,720 m) to Marangu Gate (1,860 m) at Kilimanjaro National Park’s exit. The trek covers approximately 18 kilometres and typically takes 5 to 6 hours. Upon arrival, the group will come together to celebrate your achievement and you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts in the guestbook. We will then present your commemorative certificate at our office before transferring you back to the hotel in Moshi for your overnight stay.

After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Please note that hotel check-out is at 11:00 am. If your flight departs later in the day, you may arrange for a late check-out at an additional cost.