Your Travel Experience with Shemeji Safari team
Day 1
Transfer from Arusha to Marangu Gate
The transfer from your Arusha hotel to Marangu Gate is a comfortable drive in a private minibus, covering about 120 km. You'll be picked up in the early morning and driven through scenic landscapes, including Moshi town and local villages, before arriving at the Kilimanjaro National Park entrance.
Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
The first day of the Marangu Route trek begins at Marangu Gate (1,870m) with registration, followed by a gradual 8 km (5-mile) hike through lush montane rainforest. The trail is well-defined and shaded, often alive with monkeys and exotic birds. After about 4–5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Mandara Hut (2,700m), where you'll rest for the night and begin acclimatizing.
Day 2
Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
On the second day, the trail ascends from Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m) over a distance of about 12 km (7.5 miles). The hike takes around 6–8 hours, transitioning from rainforest into heath and moorland, with expansive views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The gradual climb aids acclimatization, and trekkers often spot unique alpine plants like giant groundsels along the way. You’ll spend the night at Horombo Hut, resting and adjusting to the higher altitude.
Day 3
Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
The acclimatization day at Horombo Hut (3,720m) is essential for adjusting to the increasing altitude and reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers typically take a short hike to Zebra Rocks (4,000m), a striking geological feature, before returning to the hut. This moderate trek helps your body adapt while offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The rest of the day is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the ascent to Kibo Hut.
Day 4
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
The trek from Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m) covers about 10 km (6.2 miles) and takes approximately 5–7 hours. The trail passes through alpine desert, with a steady ascent and thinning air making the hike more challenging. You’ll walk along the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, enjoying vast, barren landscapes. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak.
Day 5
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak & Descent to Horombo Hut
Summit day begins just after midnight with a challenging ascent from Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—Africa’s highest point. The climb is steep and demanding, taking 6–8 hours to reach the summit via Gilman’s Point (5,685m) and Stella Point (5,756m). After celebrating at the top, you'll descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue another 3–4 hours down to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for an overnight stay. It’s a long, exhausting day, but one of immense reward.
Day 6
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
The final day of the trek involves a steady 20 km (12.4 miles) descent from Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,870m), taking about 5–7 hours. The trail retraces your path through the moorland and lush rainforest, offering a last glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll sign out, receive your summit certificate
After checking out at Marangu Gate, you'll be met by your driver for the return transfer to Arusha, covering approximately 120 km (75 miles) over 2.5 to 3 hours.