Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route 5-6 Days Itinerary
This descriptive itinerary captures the essence of the Kilimanjaro Climb via the Marangu Route, highlighting the diverse landscapes, challenges, and triumphs encountered along the way.
Experience the Majesty of Kilimanjaro: 5-6 Day Marangu Route Climb and embark on an unforgettable journey to conquer Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the iconic Marangu Route. This meticulously crafted itinerary blends adventure with comfort, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Tanzania.
Arrival: Optional airport transfers from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport to your hotel in Moshi.
Activity: Pre-trek briefing at your hotel. Arrive at least one day before the trek starts to review your equipment and rent any necessary gear.
Begin your ascent from the Marangu Gate, surrounded by lush rainforest teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Follow well-marked trails that wind through the verdant scenery, eventually reaching Mandara Hut. Rest in comfortable mountain huts and soak in the tranquility of your surroundings.
You leave the glades of the rainforest and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to the Horombo Huts. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and grounsels. You may begin to feel the effects of the altitude.
Rest day at Horombo Hut with an optional hike by Mawenzi Peak.or aclimatization at the zebra rock near with mawenzi peak
Ascending, we now pass the last watering point as we walk onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with the upper heathland but then disappears into a “moonscape.” We will then have dinner, rest, and prepare for the summit climb.
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s point located on the crater rim. Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here, we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing to the Horombo Huts. 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 will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most challenging part of the trek, with many switchbacks. Going slowly “pole pole” and an optimistic attitude will get you there!
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us 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 plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). A vehicle will meet you at Marangu gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour).
