MARANGU GATE – MANDARA HUTS: 8.3km /5mi | 4-5 hrs | Rainforest

Kilimanjaro National Park - Elevation: 1905m/6250ft to 2723m/8934ft Altitude gained: 818m. Starting from Moshi, a 45-minute drive leads through the Village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Permits are issued while observing the lively preparations of various crews for the journey. Revel in the stunning rainforest scenery and winding trails as the guide shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail may be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

MANDARA HUTS – HOROMBO HUTS: 12.5km/7.8mi | 6-8hrs | Moorland

Kilimanjaro National Park - Elevation: 2723m/8934ft to 3721m/12,208ft Altitude gained: 998m. After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the journey continues from the rainforest on an ascending path through heathland, searching for giant lobelias and groundsels. The path leads into open moorlands where small shrubs dominate. A lunch break offers breathtaking views of Mawenzi. Arrival at the Horombo Huts is in the late afternoon, beneath the stunning Kibo Summit viewpoint, as temperatures begin to drop.

HOROMBO HUTS

Kilimanjaro National Park - Spend a full day and a second night at Horombo. This day can be used to rest at the huts or take a walk to the Mawenzi base camp and return to Horombo Huts. This extra day aids acclimatization and enhances understanding of the mountain’s weather and altitude. After this pause, the journey continues to Kibo Huts on the fourth day for a midnight summit start.

HOROMBO HUTS- KIBO HUTS: 10.5km/6mi | 6-8hrs | Semi-Desert

Kilimanjaro National Park - Elevation: 3721m/12,208ft to 4714m/15,466ft Altitude gained: 993m. After breakfast, the path continues through diminishing heathland that transitions into a moonscape as the sweeping saddle connecting Mawenzi and Kibo is entered. A lunch stop provides an opportunity to examine the summit climb up Kibo, which will commence in a few hours.

KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT: 6.25km /3.9 mi up | 5-7hrs | – HOROMBO HUTS: 15.75km /9mi down | 5-6hrs

Kilimanjaro National Park - The ascent to the summit follows a switchback path, focusing on staying warm and motivated by the sense of achievement ahead. The climb continues through heavy scree and possible snow towards Gillman’s Point on the crater rim, where a magnificent sunrise can be enjoyed during a short rest. Faster hikers may witness the sunrise from the summit. The final hour to Uhuru Peak may involve snow. After photos, celebrations, and perhaps tears of joy, the descent to Mweka Camp begins, with a stop at Barafu for lunch and a brief rest. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain. A well-deserved rest awaits at Mweka Camp for the last evening on the mountain.

HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – MOSHI: 20km/12.5mi |6-7hrs | Rainforest

Kilimanjaro National Park - Elevation: 3721m/12,208 to 1905m/6250ft Altitude lost: 1816m. After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with the crew, it’s time to bid farewell. The descent continues, stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip the guides, cooks, and porters, as they will be left here. Return to the Marangu Park Gate to receive summit certificates. With warmer weather, the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. From the gate, a vehicle will transport you back to the hotel in Moshi (approximately 45 minutes). Enjoy a long-awaited hot shower, dinner, and celebrations!

• Professional, experienced mountain guides for safety
• Comprehensive crisis management and safety procedures
• Ethical treatment of porters ensures fair labor practices
• Nutritious meals including large portions of fresh, healthy food
• All meals provided on the mountain: breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Quality Mess tents furnished with tables and chairs for comfort
• Accommodation in mountain huts for overnight stays
• Access to clean, purified drinking water throughout the tour
• All Park and rescue fees included for peace of mind

• Tanzania VISA
• Tips
• Personal mountains gears

The Marangu Route, often referred to as the Coca Cola route, is favored for its shorter duration and the availability of permanent sleeping huts at the campsites. The summit night from Kibo Hut is challenging, ascending steeply past Gilman’s Point to reach Uhuru Peak. Due to its shorter length and steeper gradient, there is less time for acclimatization, which can result in a lower success rate for reaching the summit. This is the only route where both ascent and descent paths are the same, leading to increased traffic. Duration: 5 or 6 days Difficulty: Medium Scenery: Good Traffic: High

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