5 DAYS MT. KILIMANJARO TREKKING (MARANGU ROUTE)

Overview

Embark on an exhilarating 5-day Mount Kilimanjaro climbing adventure via the Marangu Route, the easiest and most direct path to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. This trek offers a moderate ascent, comfortable hut accommodations, and breathtaking landscapes. The journey begins in Arusha and concludes in Moshi or Arusha, providing a seamless and memorable experience for adventurers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The easiest route to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Moderate and steady climbing experience with a high success rate.
• Accommodation in simple yet comfortable mountain huts.
• Professional and knowledgeable guides to ensure a successful ascent.
• Starts in Arusha and ends in Arusha, Moshi, or at the airport.
• Tipping for guides, porters, and cooks is mandatory.

CLIMBING GEAR CHECKLIST

• Backpack: Rucksack for personal items (carried by porters).
• Sleeping Gear: Mountain-type sleeping bag.
• Footwear: Hiking/climbing boots, camp shoes, trainers (no sandals).
• Clothing: Thermal socks, wind pants, wind shirts, fleece jacket, rain parka.
• Accessories: Warm hat, balaclava, gloves, sunglasses, headlamp with extra batteries.
• Trekking Gear: Trekking poles, gaiters, water purification tablets.
• Toiletries: Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer, first aid kit.

INCLUDED

• Transport to and from the base of the mountain.
• Accommodation in huts.
• Park entrance fees and permits.
• Guides, porters, and cook fees.
• Three meals per day while on the mountain.
• Boiled drinking water.
• Rescue fees.
• Certificate of Achievement.

EXCLUDED

• Personal climbing gear.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs, etc.).
• Sleeping bag (mountain type).
• Bath towel.
• Tips for guides, porters, and cook (mandatory).

Tour Plan

DAY 1: ARUSHA – MANDARA HUT

• Elevation: 1,700m to 2,740m.
• Distance: 7 km.
• Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
• Habitat: Montane Forest.

Begin your adventure with a drive from Arusha to Marangu Gate for registration and briefing. The trek starts through a lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and diverse bird species. Reach Mandara Hut for an overnight stay, with an optional short hike to Maundi Crater for panoramic views.

DAY 2: MANDARA HUT – HOROMBO HUT

• Elevation: 2,740m to 3,700m.
• Distance: 11 km.
• Hiking Time: 6 – 8 hours.
• Habitat: Heathland.

Depart from the rainforest and ascend through moorlands, passing unique vegetation like giant lobelias and groundsels. Spectacular views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks unfold as you approach Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight rest.

DAY 3: HOROMBO HUT – KIBO HUT

• Elevation: 3,700m to 4,700m.
• Distance: 10 km.
• Hiking Time: 6 – 8 hours.
• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Today’s trek takes you through the barren alpine desert. The last water source is passed before reaching Kibo Hut, where you will rest and prepare for the summit attempt at midnight.

DAY 4: KIBO HUT – UHURU PEAK – HOROMBO HUT

• Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m to 3,700m.
• Distance: 4 km ascent, 14 km descent.
• Hiking Time: 10 – 15 hours.
• Habitat: Arctic conditions at the summit, descending to moorland.

Begin the summit trek in the early hours, climbing steep scree to Gilman’s Point before pushing onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Enjoy the sunrise from the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Kibo for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.

DAY 5: HOROMBO HUT – ARUSHA

• Elevation: 3,700m to 1,700m.
• Distance: 18 km.
• Hiking Time: 5 – 7 hours.
• Habitat: Moorland to Montane Forest.

Descend through moorlands and lush rainforest, arriving at Marangu Gate for summit certificates. A vehicle awaits to transfer you back to Arusha or Moshi, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.