5 Day Climbing Marangu Route Itinerary

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Elevation: 1,800 m (5,900 ft) to 2,700 m (8,850 ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overview: After arriving at Marangu Gate and completing registration, you'll embark on a trek through the verdant rainforest. The path to Mandara Hut is well-trodden and relatively gentle, providing a good introduction to Kilimanjaro’s diverse flora and fauna. Mandara Hut offers basic facilities and serves as a comfortable first night’s stop.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 2,700 m (8,850 ft) to 3,700 m (12,140 ft)
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overview: The trek today ascends through the moorland zone, characterized by rugged terrain and expansive vistas. The hike to Horombo Hut includes a significant altitude gain but is manageable due to the steady incline. Horombo Hut provides excellent views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks and includes more comfortable facilities compared to Mandara Hut. This day allows for some acclimatization to prepare for higher altitudes.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 3,700 m (12,140 ft) to 4,700 m (15,420 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overview: On this day, you’ll ascend to Kibo Hut, the base camp for the final summit attempt. The terrain transitions to the alpine desert zone, with sparse vegetation and a more barren landscape. Kibo Hut is situated in a relatively harsh environment with basic facilities. This hike is designed to set you up for the summit, and you’ll need to rest and prepare for the early morning ascent.

Day 4: Summit Attempt – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700 m (15,420 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) to 3,700 m (12,140 ft)
Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours (7-8 hours to the summit, 5-7 hours to Horombo Hut)
Habitat: Arctic to moorland
Overview: The summit attempt begins in the early hours, typically around midnight, to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. The ascent involves challenging conditions with cold temperatures and thin air. After reaching the summit, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut. This long day is physically demanding but rewards climbers with the achievement of reaching the roof of Africa.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,700 m (12,140 ft) to 1,800 m (5,900 ft)
Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overview: The final day involves a descent from Horombo Hut back to Marangu Gate. The trail passes through the lush rainforest, providing a contrasting experience to the arid conditions encountered on the summit day. This descent is relatively straightforward, allowing you to reflect on your achievement as you complete the trek. At Marangu Gate, you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificates, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.