
Route: Marangu
Length of Section: 7 days
Comfort Zone: 4 out of 5 [what's this?]
Physical Rating: 5 out of 6 [what's this?]
Crew: One group leader, local guides can be arranged.
Vehicle: Minivan, trekking
Budget: Allow USD $50 for meals not included.
Accommodation: Hotels (2 nts), mountain huts (4 nts)
If you want to get more off the beaten track, take a look at our other Kilimanjaro Climbs:Machame Route
Rongai Route
Conquer Africa's highest peak, Spot monkeys hiding in tropical rainforest, Hike through surreal hanging moss forests and moonscapes, Tackle a climactic last stretch by lamplight, Gaze at the vast plains and ice fields of Africa, Experience an incredible African sunrise from Mt Kilimajaro
what's included?
Day 1 Marangu
- Admire the cloud-covered summit of tomorrow's challenge - Mt Kilimanjaro.
Day 2 Mandara Hut
- Start the day by meeting and getting to know the team of guides and porters that will be accompanying us up the mountain. Then it's time to begin the trek! Set off to the sound of bird calls, hike through lush rainforest and spot monkeys in the overhead canopy. From Mandara Hut, our base for the night, enjoy an optional walk to nearby Maundi Crater.
Day 3 Horombo Hut
- Get muscles pumping on a trek to Horombo Hut. Rainforest gives way to rolling alpine meadow and the path crosses several ravines before reaching the hut. Spend the night in the shadow of twin snow-tipped peaks, Kibo and Mawenzi.
Day 4 Kibo Hut
- Heading higher towards the peak, the air begins to noticeably thin today. Hike through the hauntingly beautiful moorland forests full of hanging moss and exotic flowers. Skirt the stark moonscape of the Saddle to reach Kibo Hut.
Day 5 Summit
- At midnight, wake to a cup of tea for some warmth before zig-zagging up a scree slope by lamplight. Arrive at Gillman's Point in time to rest tired legs and watch the sun rise behind Mawenzi Peak. Continue the final trek upwards and pass along the rim of a crater to reach the highest point in Africa. At 5,895 m the views from here are unforgettable and so is the sense of achievement that comes when looking down over the ice fields and distant plains.
Days 6-7 Marangu
- Descend through alpine meadows and lush rainforests to Marangu and celebrate the trek with a well earned hot shower or bath.
