Itinerary Overview
Embark on a classic 6-day trek to the Roof of Africa via the Marangu Route — the only route on Kilimanjaro offering cozy hut accommodations at every stage. Beginning with a restful arrival in Arusha, this adventure leads you through lush montane forests, expansive moorlands, and across the barren alpine desert as you journey toward the majestic summit of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The route includes a critical acclimatization day to maximize your summit success, while offering dramatic scenery changes and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s twin peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo. Perfect for trekkers seeking a well-paced, scenic route with added comfort, the Marangu Route blends adventure and tradition for an unforgettable high-altitude experience.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Relax, recover from your journey, and prepare for the adventure ahead. Our team will brief you in the evening and check your gear for the climb.Overnight: Hotel in Arusha
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Description: Your Kilimanjaro journey begins as we drive from Arusha to Marangu Gate. After completing park formalities, your trek kicks off through the dense montane forest. This first stretch is alive with monkeys, exotic birds, and lush vegetation — a scenic introduction to the mountain.Elevation: 1,860m to 2,700m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mandara Hut
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Description: Trekking continues through the last section of the forest before opening into moorland terrain. Views of Mawenzi Peak begin to emerge. You’ll pass through unique alpine vegetation like giant lobelias and groundsels.Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 4: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Zebra Rocks (4,020m) & Return to Horombo Hut
Description: This extra day is essential for acclimatization. A short hike to Zebra Rocks helps your body adjust to the altitude and increases your summit success. The black-and-white striped rocks provide a great photo opportunity.Elevation: 3,720m to 4,020m and back
Distance: 5 km (round trip)
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Description: Today’s trek takes you through the saddle — a barren, high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The air becomes thinner, and temperatures drop. Hydrate and rest well at Kibo Hut in preparation for your midnight summit attempt.Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,703m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Description: Summit day! You’ll begin your trek around midnight under a sky full of stars. After reaching Gilman’s Point (5,685m) at the crater rim, push onward to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa. Celebrate, take photos, then descend back to Kibo Hut for a rest and continue to Horombo.Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (Uhuru), down to 3,720m
Distance: 22 km
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Transfer to Arusha
Description: The final descent takes you through the moorland and lush forest back to the gate. A vehicle will be waiting to take you to Arusha where you’ll enjoy a warm shower and celebrate your accomplishment.Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Moorland and Montane Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha (optional add-on)
PACKAGE
Package Inclusions
Travel Handbook
Included in Package
Airport Pick up and drop off
Pre and Post Trek Hotel accommodation
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, and taxes
Q-4 season mountain tents
Transportation to and from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
3 meals per day whilst on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Excluded in Package
International flights
Traveler’s insurance
VISA
Drinks outside safari
Tipping (we recommend from $10 per person per day)