The Marangu Route is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations (instead of tents). It’s considered the “classic” and one of the most direct routes to the summit. The trek takes you through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and finally the arctic summit zone. The 5-day itinerary is shorter than most routes, which makes acclimatization harder, but it’s popular because it is relatively comfortable and straightforward. Expect shared mountain huts, basic facilities, and steady uphill trails.
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Trekking time: 4–5 hours, ~8 km
What to expect:
Registration at Marangu Gate.
Trek begins in lush rainforest with towering trees, moss, and possible sightings of monkeys (Colobus & Blue monkeys).
Trail is shady, damp, sometimes muddy.
Overnight in Mandara Hut (wooden cabins, dormitory style).
Trekking time: 6–8 hours, ~12 km
What to expect:
Transition from rainforest to moorland zone with giant heathers, lobelias, and open views.
You’ll see Mawenzi Peak and possibly the summit of Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Trails are steeper and more open.
Overnight at Horombo Hut (larger huts, dining hall, better views).
Trekking time: 6–7 hours, ~10 km
What to expect:
Enter the alpine desert zone — wide, rocky, and dry with sparse vegetation.
Trail climbs steadily with fewer water sources.
Air feels thinner and colder.
Overnight at Kibo Hut (stone hut at the base of Kibo, shared dormitories, very basic).
Early dinner, sleep, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Trekking time: 12–14 hours total, ~20 km
What to expect:
Wake around midnight for summit attempt.
Steep switchbacks in the dark with headlamps. Very cold, windy, and tough.
Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) at sunrise — stunning views over Mawenzi.
Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa!
Take photos, then descend to Kibo Hut for rest and lunch.
Continue down to Horombo Hut for overnight.
This is the toughest day physically and mentally.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours, ~20 km descent
What to expect:
Long descent through moorland and rainforest back to the gate.
Trail can be slippery, especially if wet.
At Marangu Gate, receive your summit certificate (gold for Uhuru Peak, green for Gilman’s Point).
Meet vehicle for transfer back to Moshi/Arusha.
