Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking in 5 days via the Marangu route

Day 0: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport – JRO Arusha

We’ll receive you from Kilimanjaro International Airport, and transfer you to Tulia Hotel and Spa (or similar in Arusha). In the evening, we’ll brief you about the pre-climbing and check the climbing equipment.

Included: Bed and Breakfast

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

After tea, we’ll leave for Kilimanjaro National Park gate – Marangu. Post necessary paperwork you will soon be hiking through dense rainforest. You might be lucky to catch a glimpse of the black and white colobus monkeys scrambling through the lush vegetation.

After a good hike of about 3 to 4 hours, we’ll reach the Mandara Hut. Later, you’ll visit Maundi Crater to see some wonderful views.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Trek to Kibo Hut

The trail leads to the last waterpoint, which is followed by the so-called “saddle”. This nearly plantless plateau links the summit of Kibo with Mawenzi. Today’s destination is Kibo Hut and it should be reached in about 5 to 6 hours. We’ll rest early to get enough rest for the upcoming summit hike. You will be woken at around 11 pm.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo

We’ll start in the middle of the night when the lava ash is still frozen and walking on it is easier. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave (5,220 m), the climb takes us to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) on the crater rim just before sunrise.

Another hike of 1 to 2 hours, takes us to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. The descent follows the same path and the lava ash will now have thawed and allows for a fast descent. After lunch at Kibo Hut, we’ll get down to Horombo Hut and stay overnight.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Starting early at 1:00 am, we’ll reach Gillman’s Point by sunrise. The initial climb is a bit steep over loose volcanic scree, but there are some well-graded zig-zags that will take us to the Point in about five or six hours.

For those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing by the spectacular glaciers that still occupy most of the summit area.

The descent is surprisingly fast and we’ll return to Horombo for the night. Total hours: 11 to 15.

Day 5: Horombo to Mandara Marangu, back to Arusha

After breakfast, passing via Mandara Hut, you’ll traverse moorland and lush forest to get to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu, from where you’ll be transferred to Tulia Hotel and Spa or a similar hotel in Arusha.