5 Days Marangu Route

Trip Overview

The 5-days Marangu route on Mount Kilimanjaro offers a popular and scenic trek for those aiming to conquer Africa’s highest peak. Known for its gradual ascent and comfortable hut accommodations, it is an ideal choice for less experienced climbers or those with limited time. Beginning at the Marangu Gate, the route winds through lush rainforests, stunning moorlands, and alpine deserts, providing a less strenuous yet rewarding experience that combines physical fitness with mental toughness.

With Lusen Tours & Safaris

Trek to the summit of Africa’s highest peak (5,895m)
Follow the popular and scenic Marangu Route
Enjoy gradual ascents – ideal for beginners or limited-time climbers
Stay in comfortable mountain huts along the route
Hike through diverse landscapes: rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert
Experience breathtaking views and unique ecosystems
Challenge yourself physically and mentally in a safe, guided trek
Perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and achievement

Trip Highlight

5 Days / 4 Nights

Moshi

Price from

$1225 per person

(Based on 2 or more Adults)

Full Itinerary

Day to day

Day 1: Moshi-Marangu gate – Mandara Hut

After breakfast and a briefing, enjoy a scenic one-hour drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate. Meet your guides, cooks, and porters before starting your Kilimanjaro trek through the rainforest.

Experience towering Eucalyptus trees, diverse birdlife, and playful Colobus monkeys in the Montane Forest habitat en route to Mandara Hut. Arriving at Mandara Hut, relax or opt for a short walk to Maundi Crater, offering breathtaking views. Comfortable huts with beds and mattresses ensure a restful night.

Altitude: Ascend from 1860 meters (6100 feet) to 2700 meters (8875 feet).
Trail Trek: 11 km/6.84 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: Traverse the Montane Forest for 3-4 hours.
Ecological Setting: Immerse yourself in the diverse habitat of the Montane Forest.
Culinary Delights: Relish nourishing meals, including lunch and dinner.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Exiting the lush rainforest, traverse open moorland and alpine desert toward the Maua River. After an hour, the path leads to Kilimanjaro’s Saddle, offering captivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks with a steady incline for two more hours. Be mindful of potential altitude effects during this stretch. Reach Kibo Hut by 3 pm, where a well-deserved rest awaits.

Elevation: Ascend from 2700 meters (8875 feet) to 3700 meters (12,200 feet).
Trail Trek: 10 km/6.21 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: Expect a 5-6 hour hike through this heathland habitat.
Culinary Delights: Savor meals throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Ascend from Horombo Hut through Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert and moorlands. Reach the tranquil Maua River after an hour. The terrain flattens as vegetation diminishes, allowing a lunch break at Middle Red Hill. Despite the barren desert, two hours through Kilimanjaro’s Saddle provide breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Reach Kibo Hut by 3 pm for dinner, a well-earned nap, and preparation for the next leg of the journey.

Elevation: Ascend from 3700 meters (12,200 feet) to 4700 meters (15,500 feet).

Trail Trek: 10 km/6.21 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: Expect a 5-6 hour hike through the Alpine Desert habitat.
Culinary Delights: Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: Summit from Kibo Hut and then descend to Horombo Hut

Embark on a midnight ascent for a challenging five-hour hike to Gillman’s Point on the crater rim, the easiest of the three paths. William’s Point, a significant rest stop at 5000 meters, is a two-hour hike from Kibo Hut. After thirty minutes, navigate rocky switchbacks to Gillman’s Point at 5,681 meters. Continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, capturing breathtaking views. Descend, pause for lunch and rest at Kibo Hut, then proceed to the Horombo encampment.

Trek Duration: Anticipate 6-8 hours for the ascent and 15 km (9.32 miles) for the descent.
Trail Trek: 16 km/9.94 miles Unveiled
Habitat: Experience the Alpine Desert.
Meals: Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner during this memorable journey.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

After breakfast, start your descent from Kilimanjaro’s summit, steadily descending through moorland and the cloud forest. Exercise caution due to potentially slippery conditions. At Marangu Gate, a vehicle awaits to transport you back to Moshi, a 1-hour drive away. Show appreciation by tipping guides and porters or grab t-shirts and sodas at the gate. Ensure you have rain gear and warmer clothing.

Altitude Shift: Descend from 3,700m (12,200ft) to 1,700m (5,500ft)
Trail Trek: 18 km/11.18 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Terrain: Serene Forest Setting
Culinary Delight: Breakfast included.