7 Days - Kilimanjaro Climb - Marangu Route

Tour details

7 Days - Kilimanjaro Climb - Marangu Route

Safari Overview

The Marangu Route is the most well-known trail for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a direct ascent and descent with hut accommodations along the way.
Trekkers stay at Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo Huts, making it the only route where climbers sleep in permanent shelters instead of tents.
For those new to high-altitude trekking, an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Huts is highly recommended to improve endurance and adaptation. Since hut spaces are limited, securing accommodations in advance ensures a smooth experience.
Starting from Marangu village, the trail heads westward toward Kibo, passing through lush rainforest, heath, and moorland before transitioning into an alpine desert and ultimately the icy summit zone at Uhuru Peak. The descent follows the same route, offering a well-paced and scenic journey back

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Later, your guide will brief you on the trek ahead before you settle in for a restful overnight.

Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

After leaving the hotel, the journey begins at Kilimanjaro Gate, located on the outskirts of Marangu Village, a picturesque area known for its coffee and banana plantations. Once the entrance formalities are complete, the trek ascends through a pristine forest, leading to Mandara Hut (2,720m).
Nearby, the Maundi Crater stands as a volcanic remnant, offering a scenic afternoon excursion. Alternatively, trekkers can unwind and soak in the serene beauty of the forest. The area is rich in birdlife, and playful monkeys are often spotted near the huts, adding to the charm of the day's hike.

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Leaving Mandara Hut, the trek begins with a steep forested ascent, soon transitioning into grassy moorland. On a clear day, stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks unfold in the distance.
The route continues with a steady climb through moorland terrain, where towering giant heather and scattered groundsel plants add to the unique landscape. Eventually, you'll arrive at Horombo Hut (3,720m), a spectacular resting point offering breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Situated near Kibo's glaciated dome, this camp truly makes you feel as if you're floating above the clouds.

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Leaving Horombo Hut, the journey continues with a gradual ascent through the Desert Saddle, a vast, barren landscape nestled between Mawenzi and Kibo. As the terrain shifts to loose scree, the sense of high-altitude wilderness becomes even more striking.
By midday, trekkers reach Kibo Hut (4,720m) at the base of the crater wall. The afternoon is reserved for rest and nourishment, allowing climbers to prepare for the final ascent ahead. With a very early night, the summit push draws closer.

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut

The final ascent begins at 1 a.m. guided by torchlight, as you make your way toward Gilman's Point (5,685m). The initial climb is steep and rocky, but well-defined zig-zag paths help maintain a steady pace, leading to the crater rim in about five to six hours—just in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise.
For those with extra energy, a three-hour round trip continues along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak (5,896m), passing near the majestic glaciers that still dominate the summit. After taking in the views and celebrating the achievement, the descent back to Horombo Hut is swift, offering time to rest and reflect on conquering Africa's highest peak.

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Mandara Forest to Arusha

The journey retraces familiar paths, beginning with a gentle walk through moorland toward Mandara Hut, followed by a lush forest descent leading to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate.
The dense greenery and rich vegetation stand in stark contrast to the barren summit, offering a fresh perspective on the mountain's diverse landscapes. From the gate, a transfer back to Arusha awaits, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Day 7: Departure

With the trek completed, you'll be transferred to the airport for your return journey home, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

1. Mount Kilimanjaro (within Kilimanjaro National Park)

Known for:

  • Highest mountain in Africa (5,896 meters / 19,341 feet)
  • One of the Seven Summits of the world
  • Distinct ecological zones: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glacial summit
  • Trekking routes like Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and more
  • Accessible climb without technical mountaineering
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Stunning sunrise views from Uhuru Peak
  • Rich biodiversity and endemic species in lower zones

TOUR FEATURES

  • Classic drive safari
  • Can start any day
  • Accommodation level: Comfort
  • Tour activity level: Light
  • Game drives in 4×4 vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Optional extension Zanzibar available

INCLUDED

  • Pickup Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to the lodge
  • Transfer from the Lodge to Kilimanjaro Airport
  • Accommodations as per itinerary
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Luxurious private 4×4 Safari Jeep with a pop-up roof and big windows, specially designed for high-end safari game drives
  • English-speaking private guide during the whole safari
  • Park Fees for all national parks
  • Drinking water in our safari jeeps

EXCLUDED

  • International flights
  • Tourist Visa
  • Tourism Development Levy + Village fee
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, drinks)
  • Tips (not mandatory but greatly appreciated

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