The best Kilimanjaro Climb via Marangu route in 5 days.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is one of the most popular choices due to its relatively moderate gradient and well-established paths. The 5-day Marangu itinerary is ideal for trekkers who want a shorter climb while still challenging themselves. Here is a typical 5-day itinerary,
Acclimatization: The Marangu route doesn’t offer much time for acclimatization, so it’s crucial to pace yourself and stay hydrated.
Accommodation: The Marangu Route is the only Kilimanjaro route with huts, providing a unique shelter experience compared to camping routes.
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Elevation: 1,870m (6,135ft) to 2,720m (8,923ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description: After completing registration at the Marangu Gate, the trek begins through a lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for Colobus monkeys along the way. You’ll reach Mandara Hut in the afternoon, where you can explore Maundi Crater for a stunning view of Northern Tanzania.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2,720m (8,923ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Description: The trek continues through the forest and then transitions into heather and moorland zones, with open vistas of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. Horombo Hut offers beautiful views of Mawenzi and Kibo.
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description: Today’s trek is steeper, crossing the barren Alpine desert. You’ll pass the “saddle” between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, with breathtaking views. Arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest in preparation for the final ascent.
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Descend to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 3,720m (12,205ft)
Distance: 6 km (3.5 miles) ascent, 15 km (9.5 miles) descent
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-7 hours descent)
Habitat: Arctic (at summit), Alpine Desert
Description: Around midnight, you’ll begin the final ascent to the summit. The climb is tough due to high altitude and freezing temperatures. After reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for a rest, then down to Horombo Hut.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,870m (6,135ft)
Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heathland, then Rainforest
Description: After breakfast, you’ll start your final descent, retracing your steps through the moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
Inclusions
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Clean, purified drinking water
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Sleeping Mattress
All meals while on the Mountain
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Exclusions
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
Tanzania Visa
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Travel insurance
International and domestic flights
Tips and gratuities
Hotel (available as an optional addon)
