Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) to Mandara Hut (2,743m/9,000ft)

Marangu - Depart from Arusha/Moshi at approximately 0800hrs to reach Marangu Gate for Mountain Climb Registration. Begin the Kilimanjaro trek by following a narrow path through the rainforest for the majority of the hike. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Kisambioni, the halfway point of the day. After lunch, continue through the rainforest until arriving at Mandara Hut. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or take a short walk to Mahundi Crater. On a clear day, the views to the east over Taveta and to the northwest towards Mawenzi Peak are breathtaking, making the short hike worthwhile.

Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,743m/9,000ft) to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft)

Horombo Huts - After breakfast, leave Mandara Hut and the Kilimanjaro forests to head towards Horombo Hut. Most of the day’s hike will be through the Kilimanjaro moorland, characterized by a rocky landscape with desert-like vegetation. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Kambi ya Taabu before continuing to Horombo Hut. If the weather is clear, take in the stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut around 1500hrs and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing.

Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) to Mawenzi Hut (4,600m/15,100ft) to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft)

Horombo Huts - This additional day and night at Horombo is perfect for acclimatization. A hike towards Mawenzi, passing by Zebra Rocks (approximately 3 hours up and 1.5 hours down), is highly recommended as it will further aid in acclimatization.

Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) to Kibo Hut (4,750m/15,580ft)

Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,750m/15,580ft) to Summit (5,895m/19,340ft) to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft)

Horombo Huts - At around 2330hrs, wake up and, after some tea and biscuits, set off into the night. This is where the challenge intensifies. The initial section of the trail is a rocky path leading to Hans Meyer point (17,225ft/5,250m), which is also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s Point (18,639ft/5,681m), located on the crater rim. This section is steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring significant physical and mental effort.

From Gillman’s Point, snow is typically encountered all the way to Uhuru Peak (19,341ft/5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Weather conditions at the summit will determine the duration of your stay for photographs before the 3-hour descent back to Kibo Hut. After a brief rest, gather all gear left behind for the ascent and proceed down to Horombo Hut (3 hours) for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) to Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft)

Marangu - After breakfast, conclude the trek with a descent to Marangu Gate. The final trek on Kilimanjaro is a scenic one, passing through the cloud forest. Exercise caution during the descent, as the trail can be slippery. At Marangu Gate, sign for departure. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Climbers who reached Gillman’s Point (18,652ft/5,685m) receive silver certificates, while those who reached Uhuru Peak (19,341ft/5,895m) receive gold certificates. Vehicles will be waiting at Marangu Gate to transport you back to Moshi/Arusha.

• All meals
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• All park fees
• Professional tour guide

• Tips and gratitude
• Items of personal nature
• Souvenirs

The primary or Marangu route is undeniably the most favored path to the peak. The journey up and down is facilitated with mountain huts providing essential amenities. Famously referred to as the Coca cola route, it’s the most longstanding and established route. The Marangu path earns high preference due to its reputation as the simplest route on the mountain, thanks to its gentle incline.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.