5-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

Following breakfast, we will head out to the Marangu gate. After registration with the park authorities, we will commence our climb with a four-hour walk to Mandara hut. During this trek our guides would often repeat the words, “pole pole, hakuna matata” meaning ‘go slowly, no worries’ in Swahili. We will hike through a thick rainforest zone and eventually spend the night at Mandara Hut. The Mandara Hut has sleeping bunks, running water, and flushable toilets.
Elevation: Marangu gate 1700m to Mandara
2720m
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Today we begin with a climb through the forest for a short time, before reaching the moorland zone at roughly3,000m (a six-hour walk). The magnificent views of the mountain peaks at this altitude are possible. We will get some rest and spend the night at Horombo Hut (3,720m), which lies in a valley surrounded by giant lobelia which grows up to 3m in height and groundsel (Senecio Kilimanjaro),which can reach heights of 5m, flora which is characteristic of this semi-alpine zone. Bathrooms are available with running water. Our team will bring a hot bowl of washing water, while our cook prepares an evening meal. Elevation: Mandara hut 2720m to
Horombo hut 3720m
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Starting with the slow hike through themoorland, the vegetation begins to thin out as we prepare to enter the desert like alpine zone, which is roughly 4,000 meters. During todays hike, which is at a slow pace to help with acclimatization, we attempt to get used to thinner air, but need to keep an eye out for any signs of altitude sickness. The excursion will take you in between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. To be in perfect condition to continue with the climb, which I intend to be the final one, a good amount of rest is required. Elevation: Horombo hut 3720m to Kibo hut
4700m
Distance: 9km/5.6mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Preparing for the final climb to Uhuru Peak, my body was readying itself for the final push to the summit of Africa at approximately 12:00 AM. The hike starts off with a very challenging five hour trek to Gillman’s point on the crater rim. This point, even though is at the lowest elevation among the three ascent routes, is still undergoes some degree of difficulty. William’s Point rests around 5000 meters and is approximately a two hour hike from Kibo hut, which is the first major rest stop. After gaining William’s Point, you continue further 30 minutes until the switchbacks commence, eventually bringing you to Gillman’s. The final leg of the trek from Gilman’s to Uhuru peak involves very little ascent, meaning in terms of hikes, this is relatively easy. The only problem being the height which makes the trek long and exhausting. This portion of the hike takes roughly two hours. While on the routes, take pictures after you reach Uhuru peak and before starting your descent to Horombo Hut. Post summit, enjoy breathtaking views unlike anything accessible during the ascent. Once reached Kibo hut, take a break and snack before resuming towards Horombo Hut. Finally, relish in the views around Horombo Hut during the final afternoon and enjoy your last night spent on this magnificent mountain. Elevation: Kibo hut 4720m to UHURU PEAK
5895m/19,340ft
Down toHorombo hut 3720m
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat : Ice-capped, Stone scree, Heather and
moorland
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After Uhuru Peak, your memory of reaching the peak is behind you, since you already ate your meal. Based on the details you provided, stroll downwards through the Moorland toward Mandara Hut and pass the Hut. Descend downwards further through the green forested pathway to the National Park gate at Marangu. When you get to Marangu Gate, you will collect your Uhuru peak summit pendant certificates. It is now your chance to celebrate, but don't be hasty! Make sure to reward your guide, cook, and porters with some extra cash, it is time to celebrate!