Accommodations in Kilimanjaro
There is something truly special about just being out there in a tropical landscape. Soaking in all of the sounds of the night on the mountain gives you one of the best feelings in the world.
There are times when getting a good night’s sleep is naturally more difficult on Kilimanjaro. This is
particularly the case when you reach the high-altitude zones.
The good news is that with a little bit of foresight and knowledge beforehand, you can make your
accommodation more comfortable during your climb.
However, it is also worth noting that the type of accommodation available will depend upon the route you
take. It will also depend on your budget and what type of tour you take.
So, we wanted to make sure you have all the information you need to choose the best accommodation.
You can also find more general tips and information about how to plan your perfect trip to Kilimanjaro on our Climb Kilimanjaro Experience Page.
Where do i sleep on Kilimanjaro
Where you sleep on Mount Kilimanjaro depends on your hiking route and climbing package. On all but the
Marangu route, you will sleep in tents at designated campsites. Your tour operator will typically organize your sleeping tent and mattress, whereby the quality of tents ranges from cheap locally produced to high-
quality imported winter mountaineering tents or luxurious walk-in size tents with proper frame beds
The Marangu Route offers shared hut accommodation with dormitory-style bunk beds. This means you’ll have a firm roof, but it also reduces your level of privacy. High-quality tents may feel more luxurious and
comfortable than the Marangu Huts.
What are the facilities on the marangu route like?
All hiking routes on Mount Kilimanjaro are roughly similar in terms of facilities, or lack thereof. You will sleep in designated campsites with basic public toilet facilities.
There are flush toilets and running water at lower altitudes, but only long drop toilets at higher altitude, and no toilets along the path.
Only the Marangu Route offers accommodation in huts and some more facilities, but they are not necessarily more comfortable than the other routes.
For a more comfortable experience, it’s best to book with a high-quality tour operator and upgrade your
climbing package. Mess dining tents with tables and chairs are fairly standard for all mid-range offers, and
private toilet tents have become very popular.
For a true VIP experience. we can add luxuries such as a walk-in size tent with frame beds, a portable
mountain shower, or even a comfortable lounge tent with a heater to your climbing package.
Less popular routes such as the Northern Circuit, Grand Traverse or Rongai Route may also feel more
comfortable as you’ll get to enjoy more privacy, quiet campsites and unspoilt wilderness.
What is the accommodation on the Marangu route like?
The Marangu route is the only route with hut accommodation. This includes 60 bunk beds each at the
Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut.
The Marangu Huts offer dormitory-style accommodation of between 4 — 20 bunk beds per room. It is not
possible to rent a private room. Moreover, the allocation of beds is on a first-come-first-served basis.
Therefore, expect to be sharing your hut with strangers.
However, it is worth noting that the huts do not come with mattresses and pillows — tour operators provide
that. You’ll need to bring your own sleeping bags.
The first hut you will stay in will be the Mandara A-frame Huts, which include solar lighting, flush toilets and
piped water.
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