5 Days - Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route - African Landscape Adventures

5 Days – Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route

$ 1566

/pax

Overview

The 5-Day Marangu Route Climb offers an accessible and scenic path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. Renowned for its well-maintained trails and comfortable hut accommodations, this route is ideal for climbers seeking a blend of adventure and convenience. As you journey through varied landscapes from lush rainforests to alpine deserts—you’ll be guided to the iconic Uhuru Peak. With built-in acclimatization days and the expertise of African Landscape Adventure’s professional team, this climb provides the perfect opportunity to conquer Kilimanjaro while soaking in its awe-inspiring beauty.

Itinerary

Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha/Moshi

Welcome to your adventure with African Landscape Adventures! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our warm and friendly representative will be ready to welcome you. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, situated at an elevation of 890m (2,920ft), where your journey begins.

Once you’ve settled in, you’ll meet your experienced guide for a detailed climb briefing. This important session will cover everything you need to know about your trek, ensuring you are fully prepared. Following the briefing, an equipment check will be conducted to confirm you have all the necessary gear for a safe and successful climb. Any missing items can be conveniently rented or purchased at our store.

The remainder of the day is yours to relax, explore the charming town of Moshi, and prepare for your exciting 5-Day Marangu Route Climb. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel, giving you time to acclimate to the local climate and recharge for the adventure ahead

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts: 7km / 4-5 hours | Rainforest

Elevation: 1830m (6000ft) to 2740m (9000ft)
Altitude Gained: 910m (3000ft)

Your adventure begins with a scenic one-hour drive from Moshi to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, passing through the picturesque village of Marangu. Upon arrival at the gate, we’ll take a moment to finalize our permits while observing the hustle and bustle of other trekkers and their crews. Once ready, we’ll embark on the trail through the lush rainforest, where you’ll be immersed in the beauty of winding paths and vibrant green surroundings. Our expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. The trail at these lower elevations can be muddy and slippery, so we highly recommend wearing gaiters and using trekking poles for extra stability and comfort.

Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts: 11km / 6-8 hours | Moorland

Elevation: 2740m (9,000ft) to 3690m (12,100ft)
Altitude Gained: 950m (3,100ft)

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, we leave the lush rainforest behind and begin our ascent through the heathland, where you’ll spot towering giant lobelias and groundsels. As we continue upwards, the terrain transitions into the open moorlands, with small shrubs characterizing the landscape. Along the way, we’ll stop for a scenic lunch, offering stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. By late afternoon, we will reach the Horombo Huts, located beneath the majestic Kibo Summit. As evening falls, the temperatures will begin to drop, signaling the arrival of a cooler night.

Day 3: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts: 10km / 6-8 hours | Semi-Desert

Elevation: 3690m (12,100ft) to 4695m (15,400ft)
Altitude Gained: 1005m (3,300ft)

After a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek through the diminishing heathland, gradually transitioning into a stark moonscape as we approach the expansive saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Along the way, we’ll pause for lunch and take in the striking views of the route that leads us to the summit of Kibo. This section offers a prime opportunity to acclimatize and mentally prepare for the challenging ascent that lies ahead, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the final push to the top.

Day 4: Kibo Huts to Summit back to Horombo Huts: 4km / 5-7 hours up, 14km / 5-6 hours down | Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit

Elevation: 4695m (15,400ft) to 5895m (19,340ft) (Summit), then down to 3690m (12,100ft)
Altitude Gained: 1200m (3940ft) (up)
Altitude Lost: 2205m (7240ft) (down)

We begin our summit attempt in the early hours, between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most challenging stretch of the trek, both mentally and physically. As we climb in switchbacks through loose scree and, at times, snow, we’ll make our way to Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. Here, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the surrounding landscape. The final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent, will likely be through snow, adding to the sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit.

After celebrating your achievement, we begin the steep descent to Mweka Camp, with a brief stop at Barafu for lunch. The volcanic ash and gravel terrain make gaiters and trekking poles essential for a safe descent. Finally, enjoy a well-deserved rest on your last night on the mountain, reflecting on the extraordinary journey you’ve just completed.

Day 5: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate then back to Arusha/Moshi: 18km / 6-7 hours | Rainforest

Elevation: 3690m (12,100ft) to 1830m (6000ft)
Altitude Gained: 1860m (6100ft)

After breakfast, we’ll gather for a heartfelt farewell ceremony with our incredible crew. Our descent continues, with a stop at Mandara Huts for lunch. This is also a good time to express gratitude to your guides, cooks, and porters through tips. Upon reaching the Marangu Park Gate, you’ll be awarded your summit certificates as a recognition of your achievement. As the descent takes us through warmer, wet, and muddy terrain, we recommend wearing gaiters and using trekking poles for extra support. A vehicle will then transport you back to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi, where a hot shower, dinner, and celebrations await. This marks the end of your 5-Day Marangu Route Climb with African Landscape Adventure.