Itinerary

1. Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) - Mandara Hut (2,743m/9,000ft)

   • In the morning, proceed to the Marangu Gate; the duration of the drive is approximately one hour. There will be a chance for you to acquaint yourself with the chefs, guides and porters in Moshi.
   • After registration at the gate, embark on an eight-day Marangu Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek begins in Kilimanjaro’s rainforest – it is referred to as the mountain’s timbered skirting, and silver streams and shimmer hem the emerald folds with floral sequins.
   • Stop at the halfway point, Kisambioni, where an appetising picnic lunch will be served.
   • The trail in the rainforest continues until the site of the Mandara Hut. There is an option of relaxing for the rest of the day or strolling to the Maundi Crater once you arrive at the camp. You will not regret logging a few extra miles once you catch the first glimpse of the spectacular view of the Taveta in the east. On a clear day, facing the northwestern region will reveal the fantastic view of the jagged edges of the Mawenzi Peak. Dinner will be served in the dining area.

2. Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,743m/9,000ft) - Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft)

   • After breakfast, begin your trek to the Horombo hut. Today’s terrain, Kilimanjaro's moorland, is a total contrast to the rainforest. Desert-like plants are scattered across the rocky landscape, and in the distance, the presence of Uhuru Peak and Mawenzi is acknowledged.
   • When you get to Kambi ya Taanu, take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch. Pleasant blue skies will allow you to marvel at the scenic views of Mawenzi and the peaks of Kibo.
   • Arrive at the Horombo Hut in the afternoon, and you will have the opportunity to unwind for the rest of the day. The Horombo Huts are the ‘luxury’ huts on Kilimanjaro. The classic huts can accommodate up to eight people, used by ascending and descending hikers. Up to one hundred and twenty people can stay at Horombo, and there is more space for cooks, guides and porters than at the other huts.

3. Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) - Mawenzi Hut (4,600m/15,100ft) to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft)

   • Day three aims to acclimate yourself to increase your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. It is suggested that you aim to hike to Mawenzi Hut to enable maximum acclimatisation. The other advantageous reward of taking the hike is that the view of Kibo is spectacular from this angle. A delectable lunch will be served, and lounge at the huts for the day's rest.

4. Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) - Kibo Hut (4,750m/15,580ft)

   • An energy-dense breakfast will be served in the dining area, and then you will embark on the final part of your eight days Marangu Route.
   • Hike through the alpine desert of the upper altitudes of Kilimanjaro. After an hour, arrive at the Maua River and encounter your first milestone, a small mountain stream. As you continue walking, you will notice that the terrain gradually flattens, and the vegetation starts vanishing. Once you come across the Middle Red Hill, take a break and eat lunch. The incline of Kilimanjaro’s Saddle is steady, and you will hike along the trail for approximately two hours. Although the environment on the way to Kibo is a desolate desert and vegetation is scarcely placed across the land – the splendid views of Kibo and Mawenzi enhance the scenic pleasure and add colour to the golden surroundings.
   • Reach Kibo Huts in the afternoon. It is recommended that you prepare for your midnight climb and attempt to rest as early as possible.

5. Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,750m/15,580ft) - Summit (5,895m/19,340ft) - Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft)

   • Begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s rooftop. You will set off into the darkness of the midnight skies with a curious mix of minor fatigue and raw adrenalin that will carry you to the summit. The hike beings with a gruelling five-hour trek to Gillman’s Point, located on the crater's perimeter. This trail is tremendously tricky irrespective of its being considered the easiest ascent path. It takes approximately two hours to come across the first major rest stop, William’s point. It is positioned at 500 metres, and you will continue for another thirty minutes before encountering the rocky terrain that leads the way to Gillman’s Point (5,681 metres). The actual hike to Gilman’s does not have great difficulty, but when you combine the hike with a high altitude, it becomes tiring and long.
   • Hike for a further two hours before reaching your goal, Uhuru Peak. Before your descent begins, you can take photos of the magnificent landscape and your group. You will realise that the route down the summit has remarkable views out of sight whilst ascending.
   • Stop at the Kibo Hut to give you a chance to catch your breath.
   • In the afternoon, arrive at the Horombo Huts. You can relax and savour your last night on the mountain.

6. Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) - Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) - Moshi

   • After enjoying your last breakfast in the dining area, you will start your last trek. The descent to the Marangu gate includes one of the most beautiful sights, Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. Marvel at the rays of light and mysterious puffs of white that sparkle through the underpass of branches.
   • Please remain alert when you walk, as the path tends to get slippery. The vehicles take you back to Moshi when you arrive at the Marangu Gate. 
   • Purchase sodas and souvenirs that will remind you of your eight days Marangu route for years to come. A driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro Airport, where you will connect your flight. If you’ve decided to go on a safari – well, that’s a different adventure, and the guide will be thrilled to arrange it for you as well.